Why Employee Volunteer Programs Work — And How They Benefit Everyone

Retaining top talent and maintaining high employee engagement can be a real challenge. But there’s good news: research consistently shows that employees are happiest—and most productive—when they feel aligned with their company’s values, have opportunities for personal growth, and know they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves.

That’s exactly why Employee Volunteer Programs (EVPs) work so well. Not only do they support causes that matter, but they also create measurable benefits for both your employees and your business.

Let’s break down why EVPs are a smart investment—and how they can help your company thrive.

💼 Recruitment & Retention: Attract Top Talent and Keep Them Engaged

Today’s workforce—especially younger generations—want more than a paycheck. They want purpose. According to a Stanford Graduate School of Business study, graduates are willing to give up an average of 14.4% of their expected salaries to work for socially responsible companies.

That means having an EVP can help you attract mission-driven, values-aligned talent—the kind of people who care deeply about their work and your company’s impact.

And once they’re in the door? EVPs help keep them there. When employees feel connected to a company that stands for something meaningful, they’re more likely to stay. According to Dale Carnegie Training, companies with highly engaged employees outperform those without by up to 202%.

Employee volunteerism builds pride, purpose, and loyalty—three things money alone can’t buy.

🤝 Boost Collaboration & Strengthen Teams

Volunteering is a powerful team-building experience. It gets people out of their usual routines, working together toward a shared goal that isn’t tied to deadlines or bottom lines.

This creates authentic connections and builds trust—two essential ingredients for strong collaboration back in the workplace.

When employees bond through meaningful service, they return to work as more motivated, cohesive teams.

🌎 Increase Community Visibility & Brand Reputation

A well-designed EVP doesn’t just benefit employees—it also enhances your company’s public image.

When your team is out in the community volunteering, they’re creating positive associations between your brand and the good work being done. That builds trust, increases goodwill, and can even boost customer loyalty.

Plus, today’s consumers care deeply about corporate social responsibility. When they see your company walking the talk, it makes a lasting impression.

🕒 Give the Gift of Time—And Reap the Rewards

Most people want to volunteer—but busy work schedules make it hard to find the time. Offering paid volunteer time off (VTO) gives employees permission to contribute without sacrificing their income or work-life balance.

It’s a win-win. Employees feel supported in their values, and your company benefits from:

• Higher employee satisfaction

• Increased productivity

• Better recruitment and retention

• Enhanced reputation

• Stronger community ties

Ready to Launch (or Improve) Your Employee Volunteer Programs?

Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up an existing employee volunteer program, I can help. From strategic planning to implementation, I work with organizations to build meaningful volunteer programs that create real impact—for employees, companies, and communities.

Let’s connect and explore what’s possible for your team. Contact The Volunteer Leadership Lab to learn more.