How companies benefit from time donations

When companies make time donations to a charitable organization through their employees, the primary focus on the part of the company is on social added value. Their commitment is intended to support charitable organizations in order to achieve their social mission or goals better or more efficiently. However, Corporate Volunteering projects also have advantages for companies, which are particularly evident in the area of human resources.

If the values of a company are also lived through social commitment, this strengthens the bond with the employees. The stronger identification of the employees with their company promotes satisfaction with their work and their employer and thus also productivity, while fluctuation decreases. At the same time, the social and personal skills of the employees are developed, which in turn has a positive effect on teamwork. The visibility of Corporate Volunteering cooperations has an impact on the image and reputation as a responsible company, increases the attractiveness as an employer and the bond with partners and other stakeholders. Along the way, the company also gets to know new markets and can hope for innovation impulses.

How volunteers benefit from time donations

Being able to contribute something to society makes sense to volunteers and gives them satisfaction. By gaining insight into nonprofit organizations, they can expand their skills and at the same time have fun with colleagues in an unfamiliar context. In addition, the social engagement in the context of a time donation also has a positive influence on motivation and social competence.

According to a survey, 86% of entrepreneurs welcome the voluntary commitment of their employees outside their profession. A total of 93% say that they acquire skills that are beneficial in their jobs. A whole 42% would consider proof of this to be positive in the application process. It is therefore advisable to obtain proof of voluntary work.

The United Health Group conducted a study in the USA in 2013 on volunteering and its influence on the health of employees. The results of the survey of over 3,000 employees show that 94% of the volunteers reported a better mood. 78% also said they felt less tense and 76% said they were generally in better physical shape. It was also shown that, in addition to the positive health effects, time management and interpersonal and professional skills were sharpened. About the study: www.unitedhealthgroup.com

Also in the USA, the management consultancy Deloitte conducted the Volunteer Impact Study in 2013. This study focused on the positive impact of skills-based volunteering on the employability of volunteers, i.e. how voluntary work affects their professional advancement. The results of this study clearly show the positive effects of skills-based volunteering on the individual professional career.

There are already tendencies to take into account the voluntary commitment of employees when they are hired. However, it is important to note that the social benefit is the main focus: for example, a social aid organization beats a choral society in this case.

In addition, Deloitte’s study shows that skills-based volunteering as (re-)qualification would make it easier for college graduates and veterans on their way into professional life or back into civilian life.