Give IT Back: The Benefits of Volunteering
Well-managed volunteer programs make a real difference to people, community and planet. However, it is not a sacrifice – volunteering has been shown to have wider benefits for the volunteer themselves and the business they are involved in. A win, win, win!
Why should my business invest in a volunteer program?
A corporate volunteer program can positively impact your bottom line, attract the brightest minds, improve staff retention and align your brand with purpose. Several surveys show that millennials increasingly look for growth, development and purpose within their work. Working with a volunteer program is an opportunity to provide this for your teams. They gain and practice new skills whilst exposure to new ideas and different ways of working can amplify creativity back in the workplace. Collaboration on unusual and unique projects can build trust and strengthen relationships between employees, further improving team work and productivity.
Ultimately, volunteer programs, as part of a well-structured and impactful CSR policy, will put your brand in a positive light for consumers and employees whilst addressing some of society’s pressing issues around the world.
My company doesn’t offer paid volunteer opportunities: Why should I volunteer individually?
Volunteering on an individual basis also generates some surprising benefits. Beyond the feel-good factor of giving back to others less fortunate than yourself, volunteering can give you a sense of purpose and direction. You will likely meet and work with people of diverse backgrounds, expanding your worldview. Bonding together over a common passion, you will learn new skills and deepen existing knowledge. Providing a reason to connect, learn and grown, volunteering benefits your mental and physical health. Lastly, volunteering can broaden your experience, widen your professional network and improve your career prospects. A 2017 research piece by Oxfam suggested that employers highly favour candidates with volunteer experience as it evidences teamwork, diligence and compassion. Again, a win, win, win!
Give IT Back: Clea’s Volunteer Program
As a non-profit Community Interest Company, we blend a lean core team with Give IT Back volunteer support in order to provide the greatest number of non-profits with improved IT support and technological interventions. We work with businesses and individuals to pair volunteers with non-profit projects in need of a spark of IT genius.
So whether, you are a business looking to offer volunteer projects to your tech staff, or an IT professional looking to use your skills outside the workplace, let’s explore how Clea connect you to a world of international development projects!