(October 28, 2019) Volunteering engages employees and unifies them around a shared desire to make a difference, do a good deed. Data from the 2017 Deloitte Volunteerism Survey shows that 89% of American believe that companies who sponsor volunteer activities offer a better overall working environment than those that don’t and 70% believe that volunteer activities are more likely to boost morale than company-sponsored happy hours.
High morale is more than just a good feeling. It increases employee well-being and satisfaction. It illustrates to others that the company is a desirable place to work, which helps to attract new talent and retain employees in a tight labor market. This also becomes evident to those who come in contact with the company.
Greater Gallatin United Way owul volunteer projects for two local companies - - ERA Landmark Real Estate and Enterprise Holdings (Enterprise Rent-A-Car). Both companies experienced elevated comradery, team-building and the joy of giving.
Enterprise Holdings recently moved their regional office to Bozeman from Helena. Their new employee on boarding process includes a group volunteer event. They know that volunteer engagement activities for their new hires communicates, "We are committed to your well-being. We are committed to this community and we are committed to investing in programs and services that support our employees and our customers." Since their founding in 1957, Enterprise Holdings has kept corporate philanthropy and community engagement at the core of their business philosophy. The enthusiasm of the staff was contagious. Eleven new hires, along with their training manager volunteered at a Greater Gallatin United Way kidsLINK Afterschool Program. Employees setup relay races, played board games and crafted Halloween projects with the kids. Volunteers, kids and program staff enjoyed the experience. We also know that positive interactions with caring adults is foundational for kids. It's a win all the way around!
A real estate agency consists of a group of independent people working under one umbrella. But when ERA Landmark associates get together to volunteer, the word "TEAM" rings loud and clear. ERA Real Estate has been committed to supporting our community through philanthropy for as long as they've exited here. This past year, ERA solidified a plan for structured team volunteer projects for their individual realtors. Sylvia Drain, Director of Community Engagement, worked with ERA to deliver a survey to gather the interests and availability of their agents. Given the data collected, they decided to kick off their new team volunteer plan with a Rake-A-Difference event. The team helped area seniors with fall yard work, including raking, tree trimming, garbage removal and more. ERA associates’ enthusiasm and willingness to take on a few projects outside the original scope led to rave reviews from the seniors who benefited and from the agencies who referred them. Read this special note from a grateful recipient of their services.
Greater Gallatin United Way is your partner in community engagement and volunteerism. Contact Sylvia Drain, Director of Community Engagement. It starts with a conversation. We will help devise a custom plan for your company - - whether it is an annual event or a series of projects. Based on your team's interests and availability, we will find the right project for you!
