August 5, 2011
EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS:
A NORM FOR SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES
The Basics of an Employee Volunteer Program
As companies take more responsibility for the communities in which they operate, they seek more meaningful ways to get involved. EVP’s allow companies to go beyond monetary donations to give employees a tangible opportunity to support a charity of choice. Embracing volunteerism and making it part of their corporate culture, companies are encouraging employees to volunteer in structured programs and allowing either paid time off or the flexibility to make it happen. In return, companies reap the benefits.
Is Your Company Measuring Up?
• 71% of Canadian companies accommodate or encourage employee volunteerism
• 88% of university graduates rate the presence of an EVP in their top five credentials when choosing a company to work for
• 63% of employees surveyed indicated an EVP is a major retention incentive
• Consumers are 85% more likely to purchase from a company that is active in their community
• 14% of Canadian companies do not feel it is their responsibility to assist community initiatives
• 100% of In-School Mentors feel a sense of personal reward
The In-School Mentoring Program
Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver works with companies to implement EVP’s in which employees take part in the In-School Mentoring Program, allowing both men and women to volunteer on school grounds for one hour each week with an elementary school aged child.
Given the fun non-academic based program does not require volunteers to have any experience, it is an easy opportunity for all employees alike.
Each employee goes through screening individually and then joins their co-workers for brief joint on site training. Big Brothers works with each employee to determine an hour each week when they can volunteer. It does not have to be the same hour for all staff, meaning employers do not need to worry about work coverage.
Everybody Wins
What sets EVP’s apart from donations is their ability to benefit so many different parties. The reason so many companies are adopting them is their unique ability to engage employees in a company’s community efforts, creating a better workplace dynamic and a stronger company overall.
Why Choose Big Brothers EVP
• We are a reputable charity
• We specialize in meaningful volunteer opportunities
• Our program is flexible and fun
• We have experience offering EVP’s to companies
• Our trained staff can provide guidance, support and tips
• We duly recognize companies who support us
• Volunteers do not need specific skills
• Our program requires a minimal time commitment
• Our programs have proven impacts on children
To learn more about Big Brothers EVP, please contact Rose Baraty at rose.baraty@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca or 604.876.2447 x 236.
