How to Start a Volunteering Program at Work

Community involvement is an integral part of many company cultures. Some large companies even have a formal program that includes a dedicated volunteer coordinator. Volunteering offers many benefits to both individuals and companies. Any size company can help the community and add value to the organization. The key to a successful volunteer program is taking the time to create a program that is compatible with the company's culture. Read on to learn how to start a volunteering program at work.

Instructions

1. Learn more about corporate volunteering before you jump in and start organizing a new volunteer program. Read about corporate responsibility, return on investment, budgeting, recruiting and rewarding volunteers and selling the program to company leaders. Contact a volunteer council to ask for advice. Join a local volunteer council to network with other companies.

2. Obtain approval from top management. If volunteering is not already a part of the company's culture, the program will not be successful without management's support. Prepare a proposal that includes a description of the program and benefits to the company.

3. Begin the initial program planning. Just like any business project, take the time to define the volunteering program's goals, objectives, mission, budget, scope, time line, rewards, kick off date and related parameters.

4. Determine the volunteering program's philosophy and approach. Some companies select a few nonprofit organizations to support. Some companies organize group projects with a variety of nonprofit organizations. Some companies publish a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals. There is no right or wrong approach. Select the approach that best fits your company's culture.

5. Create the program documents. Develop a program description, participation guidelines and expectations, project descriptions and employee communications.

6. Develop a system to document and track volunteer projects. The system will vary based on the size of the company and number of volunteers. Small companies can use a spreadsheet or word processing program. Large companies may require a database. The Volunteer Match website offers an online tool to help companies manage their volunteer program.

7. Plan and implement a kick off. Use various means of communication that will ensure all employees learn about the program. The goal is to generate excitement and encourage participation. Ask company leaders to participate in the kick off event.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't go it alone. Recruit a team of enthusiastic volunteers to help you start and manage the company's new volunteer program. Seek advice from partner nonprofit organizations.

• Start small and ease into the program. You don't have to do everything at once. Implement one or two projects, evaluate the outcome and make changes to improve your program.

• Be flexible. Continually evaluate the program and be prepared to make changes and improvements as needed.

• Do not expect 100 percent participation. Be prepared for the fact that there will be employees who do not support the volunteer program. Your program can be successful with smaller participation by a dedicated and motivated group.