• Aarti Madhusudan, principal consultant, iVolunteer, India’s oldest volunteering platform and a Points of Light Global Network affiliate
• Pamela D. Everhart, senior vice president, head of regional public affairs and community relations, Fidelity Investments
• Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, Points of Light

This engaging discussion will explore the role of strong mentorship, women in leadership, the impact women have serving on nonprofit boards and the importance of diverse boards. It will also examine global health for girls.

You’ll walk away with a renewed perspective on the ways women and girls show up in community and how we all have a role in elevating their voices.

The post Register for Inspiring Inclusion: A Conversation for International Women’s Day appeared first on Points of Light.

Our Points of Light Global Network co-host for these two convenings was our Polish network affiliate Stowarzyszenie Centrum Wolontariatu (Volunteer Center Association) under the direction of their amazing president, Agnieszka Lissowska-Lewkowicz. Centrum Wolontariatu celebrated its 30th anniversary last year and they focus on training volunteers and supporting businesses in being truly socially responsible while fostering cross-sector partnerships. I am eternally grateful to Agnieszka (pronounced Ag-nesh-ka) for coaching me on the pronunciations of names of the people that I needed to both introduce and interact.

It is just over a four-hour drive from Warsaw to the main Polish-Ukrainian Border Crossing Budomierz-Hruszów. The war in Ukraine, now going on for two years, was central to many of our discussions. We started the summit with a fireside chat with our Points of Light Board Chair, Neil Bush, in conversation with U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzezinski. Two sons of important U.S. officials, one a president and the other a national security advisor, discussing the current situation with Ukraine and also speaking of their fathers’ significant roles in both freedom for Poland and the collapse of communism. An example of two men across the isle who not only worked together for a common goal but in admiration of each other.

The panel I moderated continued the discussion of geopolitics, and polarization, with a focus on Ukraine and an emphasis on collaboration. Our panelist consisted of representatives from two companies – Provident, a Polish financial services firm, and UPS, the global logistics behemoth – an NGO dedicated to helping refugees, and the Polish Minister of Civil Society. Employee volunteering was central in the aftermath of the infusion of Ukrainian refugees, in fact it is estimated that half of all Poles were volunteering or helping in some way. Many took the refugees into their homes, helped financially, provided needed services, and schools for the children. Provident created a home for single moms from Ukraine and provided not only housing but also food, clothing, and many services. This was staffed by volunteers and Provident has now turned it into a separate NGO. It should be noted that that Minister Agnieszka Buczyńska was herself was a Volunteer Center leader in Gdańsk.

I was able to be with our Points of Light Global Network affiliates for two of their three day meeting. There are 145 NGOs from 39 countries in the Global Network. We had representatives from 25 countries with us spanning the globe from Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, France, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Mexico, Philippines, Romania to the United States. While cultures, political systems, geography, and demographics range widely, the group shares a common belief that through volunteering and civic engagement we can make positive change in the world for those who need it most. Much of the time was in discussion both as a network and in small groups discussing successes, changes, opportunities and best practices. Scale is critical and looking through different lenses to see how something is done differently helps to spark innovation.

At one lunch Points of Light’s President & CEO Jennifer Sirangelo and I sat down with our two Global Network members, Olga Moloko and Luba Margolina, from Ukraine. The mission statement of their organization, the East Europe Foundation, states their work succinctly: We are changing our country and want to see it be modern and innovative, attractive to investors, and comfortable to live in. A country where the government is accountable, effective and responsible, and the people have opportunities to actualize their potential. I have learned over the last two years how resilient the Ukrainian people are. In the early days it was about relief, and while still important, they have moved forward as a country while at war. For instance, Olga is leading an effort to build bomb shelters at schools. Students are not allowed to attend in-person school without a bomb shelter, so they rose to the occasion and are building them. They are addressing current needs for a longer-term war while at the same time planning for rebuilding and the long-term future. So inspiring as they persevere against great odds.

I mentioned the word remembrance. It was not lost on me the significance of being in Warsaw in this turbulent world that at times reminds me of the Polish people’s experience in the last century. My first trip to Poland many years ago was to Gdańsk. This port city is known not only for the start of World War II and it’s subsequent annexation by the Nazis, but also for the start of the fall of the Soviet Union with Lech Walesa leading the charge at Solidarity. It is what happened during WWII in Poland what we must never forget. We visited the Monument for Ghetto Heroes. The monument marks the area where Polish Jews were forced to locate, and then where many were taken to camps such as Auschwitz. Just prior to WWII, 3.3 million Jews lived in Poland, more than any other country in Europe. At the end of the war, approximately 380,000 Polish Jews remained alive. The rise of authoritarianism, polarization, and increasing antisemitism in our world today are all important reasons to look back into the not-too-distant past as we must prevent history from repeating itself.

The post Reflections from the Points of Light Global Gathering in Warsaw appeared first on Points of Light.

Communities across our country desperately need help. Some are recovering from natural disasters and require food, water and shelter. Many confront economic misfortune, forcing families to rely on services like food banks they never imagined they would need. In others, school attendance rates have dropped, and afterschool programs are struggling. Military veterans and their families, who may need assistance with benefits, mental health services or academic support, often have nowhere to turn.

Each day, any one of these situations is happening in American communities, and 200,000 AmeriCorps members step up to answer the call.

As a public-private partnership and catalyst for local engagement, AmeriCorps has bridged divides and repaired communities for 30 years. AmeriCorps deploys thousands of members and volunteers to community-run organizations from coast to coast, helping people improve education, strengthen health services, protect the environment, support military families and grow local economies. Last year, more than 17,000 AmeriCorps members helped Texas communities, including many who worked with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.

And yet the U.S. House of Representatives wants to cut AmeriCorps’ funding in half, to the lowest levels in the past three decades. If implemented, these cuts would eliminate more than 61,000 AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors positions. The Senate’s bill, though better, would still result in significant cuts to AmeriCorps.

We cannot afford for this to happen. From rural outposts to urban centers, AmeriCorps shows up to meet critical needs. Funding AmeriCorps is also an incredibly efficient use of taxpayer dollars, yielding more than $17 in community benefits for every $1 Congress invests.

Americans, especially young people, need more opportunities to both contribute their energy and skills and strengthen the social fabric of our nation. AmeriCorps provides those opportunities, and now more than ever, we must invest in it. The challenges our nation faces are immense, and we need more people to step up and say, “Yes, I can help.”

When my father, President George H.W. Bush, launched Points of Light and signed the 1990 National Service Act, he paved the way for service to be recognized and empowered as a core value of American life. His work set the stage for the creation of AmeriCorps. My brother George carried on this national service legacy during his presidency, bolstering AmeriCorps’ vital work. They knew that the government could not face our nation’s challenges alone. It would take nonprofits, businesses and citizens all working together, something AmeriCorps makes possible every day.

In the past 30 years, investments in national service have proven beneficial, especially in times of crisis. Those who serve have supported more than 245,000 veterans and military families. They are also in 9,500 schools nationwide, providing educational support and increasing high school graduation rates.

Wherever there is a need, AmeriCorps is there, and cutting funding would leave gaping holes in critical services that communities and families sorely need.

This summer, David Eisner and John Gomperts, former heads of AmeriCorps under my brother and President Barack Obama, respectively, published a paper titled “No Greater Mission. No Greater Means.” They thoughtfully explored how national service can advance bridge-building and how AmeriCorps members learn “civic CPR” — the basic mindset and skills to connect across differences, listen and collaborate. These crucial skills are at the heart of what both my father and brother paved the way for. People serving together increases understanding and communication to respect differences and helps foster trust and civility.

We implore Congress and the White House to invest in national service and reject shortsighted funding cuts to AmeriCorps. It not only supports communities across the country but also builds better citizens. Now is the time to lean into the values we hold dear and enable Americans to build bridges toward a stronger future.

The post National Service Matters Now More Than Ever appeared first on Points of Light.

In a world often clouded by challenges and hardships, Zoya’s approach shines a light on the unique power of creativity and empathy. Her journey exemplifies how art can transcend traditional boundaries of engagement, turning every brushstroke into hope and every color into change. As we delve into the heart of this transformative movement, it becomes evident that Zoya’s work is not just about getting civically engaged; it’s about redefining the essence of giving through the universal language of art.

Are you a nonprofit leader who is innovating in the social impact space and wants to become an Impact Icon? Answer our QUESTIONNAIRE, and you could be featured here on our blog!

A Canvas of Compassion: Pastel Souls at a Glance

Founded by the visionary Zoya Eshwar, Pastel Souls is a youth-driven outreach program that harnesses the power of art to spread joy, creativity and support. Targeting diverse groups like seniors in memory care, veterans, children with special needs and survivors of abuse and homelessness, this organization has become a beacon of hope and inclusivity.

Pastel Souls began as a small group of five children and has blossomed into a robust family of more than 100 volunteers, partnering with 25 charity groups. “Our exponential growth is a testament to our mission,” Zoya shares with pride. “From art donations to organizing fundraising activities, our journey has been a vibrant tapestry of making a difference.”

The Heartbeat: Art Workshops

At the core of Pastel Souls are the art workshops, described by Zoya as “therapeutic sanctuaries.” These sessions offer more than just art; they are avenues for emotional healing, self-expression and growth. “These workshops hold a significant place in my heart,” Zoya reflects, her achievements, including the President’s Volunteer Service Award and setting two world records, mirroring the organization’s commitment.

“As of now, we have successfully organized 49 community art projects,” Zoya says, “and the true heroes behind this remarkable journey are the young individuals who share our passion for a more vibrant and compassionate world.”

Current Initiatives: The Unity Project

“The ‘Unity Project’ is our latest initiative, bringing together our volunteers to create art that’s donated to those in need,” Zoya explains. This project not only showcases the unity and creativity of volunteers but also significantly impacts the community, embodying the belief in the transformative power of art.

“The ‘Unity Project’ embodies our belief in the transformative power of art and the significance of unity in making a meaningful difference,” Zoya shares. “It’s a testament to the strength of our volunteers’ dedication and their commitment to spreading colors and joy in the lives of those who need it most.”

Impact by the Numbers

Over five years, Pastel Souls has made a measurable impact:

• Artwork Donations: More than1,500 pieces donated.
• Fundraising: Raised more than $10,000 for local nonprofits.
• Art Supply Drives: Distributed 400+ art kits.
• Book Drives: Collected 2,000+ books.
• Volunteer Growth: From 5 to 100+ dedicated individuals.
• Partnerships: Collaborated with 25 different groups.
• Community Art Projects: Successfully organized 49 projects.

Recognizing Volunteers: Awards and Social Media Spotlights

Volunteers with Pastel Souls are celebrated with certificates, awards and social media recognition, underlining their invaluable contributions. “These volunteers wholeheartedly contribute their time, resources and in-kind donations to advance our cause,” Zoya says. “Together, we create a world where compassion and creativity go hand in hand.”

A Tapestry of Love and Art

For those seeking to get involved in their communities through volunteering, Zoya advises, “Start with your passion and find a cause that resonates with you. There’s no age limit for making a positive impact.” She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, saying, “Engaging with local community organizations or volunteering groups can amplify your impact and provide you with valuable resources and support. Working together with others who are passionate about the same cause can make a significant difference.”

“Lastly, don’t be discouraged by the scale of the task,” Zoya shares. “Civic engagement often involves small steps that, when taken collectively, lead to meaningful change. Every effort, no matter how modest, contributes to the betterment of your community. Stay persistent and focused on your goals, and remember that even a single act of kindness or civic participation can have a ripple effect in creating a more compassionate and vibrant community.”

Pastel Souls reminds us that love can be expressed in myriad ways, with art being a profound medium. Zoya Eshwar’s journey and the accomplishments of Pastel Souls not only set trends in volunteerism and social impact but also paint a picture of a world where compassion and creativity walk hand in hand.

The post Impact Icons: Zoya Eshwar and Zoya’s Rainbow Touch – Pastel Souls appeared first on Points of Light.

Hear from our experts right here in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know it takes a village to create vibrant workplaces where employees are empowered to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.

Have questions about employee community engagement? Submit your question and it may be featured in a future blog post.

Dear CSR Friend,

My company’s employee volunteer program has been around for ages but we recently launched employee resource groups to foster inclusivity, shape the employee experience, develop leaders, and influence business practices. I am super grateful that they now exist (truthfully, they are long overdue), and I want to ensure that my corporate social impact teammates and I begin collaborating effectively with our colleagues who lead the ERG strategy and its implementation since some of our community goals and engagement activities overlap. Do you have any tips for starting off on the right foot?

EVP & ERG Enthusiast in Eugene

Dear EVP & ERG Enthusiast,

I love to hear that your employer has realized the value that comes from formalizing ERGs as part of its DEIB strategy. You’re not the first to pose this question since it can seem like the work of ERGs and employee community engagement is at odds in certain ways – namely how they approach community partnerships, establish goals and guidelines, and why and when they mobilize their members. I’ve jotted down a top ten list of ideas to help you and your DEIB counterparts set both programs up for success.

1. Create clear communication channels: First, I think the main hurdle to cross is ensuring open and regular communication between the leaders of these two work streams. Determine whether that’s through scheduled recurring meetings, joint working group sessions, or hosting virtual mixers with the goal of getting to know one another both professionally and personally. Heck, make plans to do all of the above AND share ideas and concerns as they surface through a dedicated Slack or Teams channel.
2. Understand each other’s roles and missions: Both ERG leaders and their corporate social impact colleagues should have a clear understanding of each other’s roles, responsibilities, and missions to avoid duplicating efforts and discover synergies. Get to know how the roles and responsibilities differ and capture it in writing. Even though you are both reaching out to the same internal audience, you’ve each got your own expertise and can use it to better each other’s programming.
3. Define common goals: Even though your charter may differ, you are working toward some similar goals, and a few might even feel identical. Identify those common goals—the ones that get everyone involved fired up—and then unite to drive positive change. This alignment can help both parties work together toward a common purpose.
4. Develop a joint strategy or two: Work together to create a comprehensive DEIB and social impact strategy that leverages the strengths and expertise of both parties, which can help set clearer priorities and direction. This step doesn’t have to be all encompassing—just the parts where the outcomes are aligned. For example, if you both have a goal to develop an inclusive talent pipeline, work together to identify potential nonprofit partners that provide individuals from underrepresented groups with pathways and skill development.
5. Share resources: Pooling appropriate resources when it makes sense, whether financial, personnel or expertise, can lead to more effective initiatives and can help maximize impact. Bring your skills and resources to the table. Share the workload, and you’ll cook up something amazing together.
6. Align measurement and reporting: Agree on common key performance indicators (KPIs) and data collection methods to track progress, especially if you have similar goals and outcomes (e.g., employee engagement or sentiment). Consistent measurement and reporting can demonstrate the impact of your collaborative efforts rather than highlighting tensions.
7. Employee engagement: Team up on employee engagement initiatives that promote both DEIB and social impact and are mutually beneficial. This can include volunteer opportunities, diversity and inclusion training and awareness campaigns. For example, a few years ago, AT&T designed a 21-day Racial Equity Learning Challenge that included many different DEIB and social impact-related activities that supported the education and development of employees enterprise-wide.
8. Advocate for senior leader support: Show that you’re a dynamic duo and go to bat for similar causes that can help you both achieve your goals. When you show up to jointly advocate for buy-in from senior leadership for activities you both want to pursue, it demonstrates alignment.
9. Celebrate successes collectively: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements and milestones as a team. This simple act can help foster a positive and collaborative work environment. When you reach your shared goals, throw a virtual victory party! Celebrate your wins as you champion change together.
10. Evaluate and adapt: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your collaboration and be open to adjusting as needed. Continuous improvement is key to achieving long-term success and working well together. You may not get it right the first time or every time but put in the effort so that you can lean on one another when needed.

Collaboration between a company’s ERG leaders and social impact counterparts can be a powerful force in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as well as advancing corporate social responsibility. By working together to achieve common goals and by leveraging respective strengths from the outset, you will both develop programs that employees will be proud to be a part of.

Until Next Month,

Your CSR Friend

Learn more about how we can help you level up your social impact work and why your company should join top social impact leadership and become a member of the Points of Light Corporate Service Council.

The post Ask a CSR Friend: Working With ERG Leaders appeared first on Points of Light.

1. Educate Yourself on the Importance of Volunteering

Understanding the impact of volunteering on communities and individuals is crucial. Read up on the stories of change and transformation brought about by volunteers around the world. This knowledge can fuel your motivation and commitment.

2. Check Out the Social Press Toolkit

Points of Light offers a comprehensive social press toolkit that is a treasure trove of information. This toolkit provides guidance on how to spread the word about Global Volunteer Month, share your stories and inspire others to join the cause. It’s a must-have resource for both new and seasoned volunteers.

3. Set Personal Volunteering Goals

What do you wish to achieve during Global Volunteer Month? It could be a certain number of volunteering hours, learning a new skill or helping a specific number of people. Setting clear, achievable goals can provide a sense of direction and accomplishment.

4. Search for In-Person and Virtual Volunteer Opportunities

The Engage platform is your go-to place to find both in-person and virtual volunteering opportunities. With a wide array of options, you can choose what resonates most with your interests and skills. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a long-term project, there’s something for everyone.

“Global Volunteer Month celebrates people who are creating change and making a lasting impact in communities around the world. Each of us can step into our power by stepping up to solve a problem we see by volunteering, using our voice, listening to others and working together. With community-serving organizations seeing a 7% drop in volunteers since the pandemic, we’re urging everyone to find a cause you care about and learn how you can get involved. Together, we can support each other and make our communities stronger.” — Chief Operating Officer Diane Quest 

5. Connect with Other Volunteers

Join online forums, social media groups or local community gatherings of volunteers. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide support, inspiration and even valuable networking opportunities.

6. Prepare Your Volunteering Kit

Depending on your chosen volunteering activity, prepare a kit. This could include items like comfortable clothing, snacks for the event, necessary tools or even educational materials if you’re teaching or mentoring.

7. Spread the Word

Use your personal and professional networks to spread the word about Global Volunteer Month. Encourage friends, family and colleagues to participate. The more people involved, the bigger the impact.

8. Reflect on Past Volunteering Experiences

If you’ve volunteered before, take some time to reflect on those experiences. What did you learn? What would you like to do differently this time? These reflections can guide your approach to the upcoming opportunities.

9. Plan for Flexibility

Sometimes, volunteering plans can change – projects evolve, or personal commitments shift. Go into Global Volunteer Month with a flexible mindset, ready to adapt and embrace whatever comes your way.

10. Celebrate Your Impact

Finally, remember to celebrate the impact of your volunteer work. Recognizing the difference you make can be incredibly rewarding and can spur ongoing commitment to volunteering.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to make a meaningful contribution during Global Volunteer Month. Let’s join hands and hearts to make a difference in our communities and beyond!

The post Top 10 Ways to Prepare for Global Volunteer Month appeared first on Points of Light.

The 2023 honorees of The Civic 50 know the value of integrating social impact strategy with other business functions. In fact, most are aligning closely to work often designated to HR like diversity and inclusion, engagement, health and wellness, recruitment and skill development. We expect this to continue to be the case with 2024 honorees as more companies realize that social impact works best when it’s integrated across operations.

Only 23% of the world’s employees were engaged in 2022, which leaves 59% “quiet quitting” (not engaged), and 18% “loud quitting” (actively disengaged) according to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report. Sure, that’s an uptick from 2021 and the trendline is steadily inching upward. However, the 77% of employees who are not engaged or actively disengaged represent $8.8 trillion in untapped productivity for global workplaces.

HR leaders and senior executives might be bearing the brunt of these challenges as they compete to attract and recruit top talent, increase engagement scores and morale, while also retaining highly-skilled workers. It’s demanding work to say the least and competitive salaries and perks aren’t enough on their own. Besides, research tells us that purpose may outweigh perks, especially during uncertain times.

To prove just how valuable investing in employee volunteerism is to meeting HR goals, here’s a collection of proof points to share with your colleagues in HR roles.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Human Resource Goals

Attraction and Recruitment

A robust employee volunteer program can be a powerful tool for attracting top talent. Many prospective employees consider a company’s commitment to social responsibility when making career decisions. Not only do applications rise by 25% when a job searcher knows about a company’s social impact work, a 2021 report from IBM tells us that seven out of 10 are more likely to apply to and accept an offer from an organization they believe to be socially responsible.

Companies known for their commitment to social responsibility often enjoy a positive employer brand. Aligning employee volunteerism with HR goals contributes to this positive perception, making the organization more attractive to both current and potential employees including those from younger generations. Interestingly, a report from Citi on closing the racial inequality gap presents the notion that Millennials are willing to forego approximately 14.4% of expected compensation to work at socially responsible companies.

Engagement

Connecting volunteer programs with HR goals increases employee engagement. When employees feel that their contributions align with the company’s mission and values, they are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work.

Research has consistently shown a positive correlation between employee engagement and participation in volunteer activities. Engaged employees tend to be more committed to their work, resulting in higher productivity and lower turnover rates. Case in point, a 2021 study by BBMG and GlobeScan reports that 59% of employees say the more socially and environmentally responsible their company becomes, the more motivated and loyal they become. When employers give workers ample chance to support their communities in more ways than one, the 2020 B2B Purpose Paradox report tells us that 75% of companies offering giving and volunteering have two times more engagement than companies only offering one or the other.

Talent Development and Skill Enhancement

Volunteer activities can provide opportunities for employees to develop new skills, including leadership, teamwork and problem-solving. By aligning volunteering with HR goals around talent development, organizations can strategically leverage these cost-effective opportunities to contribute to employees’ professional growth and career development. Deloitte’s 2016 Impact Survey reveals that 92% of respondents agree that volunteering improves employees’ professional skill sets and is an effective way to improve leadership skills and 80% of respondents said that active volunteers move more easily into leadership roles.

Retention

A growing body of evidence suggests that corporate social responsibility, including employee volunteer programs, can be a key factor in retaining top talent. Existing employees may be more likely to stay with an organization that values community engagement. The 2021 Business & Social Justice Study from Porter Novelli reports that 43% of employees are reconsidering their current job because their employer isn’t doing enough to address social justice issues externally and Deloitte doubles-down on this stat by sharing that purpose-driven companies see retention rates 40% higher than other companies. Finally, Benevity’s 2022 Talent Retention Study draws a significant correlation between community engagement and retention by reporting that companies see a 52% lower turnover among newer employees when they participate in purpose programs, which directly impacts a company’s bottom-line.

Aligning employee volunteering with HR goals creates a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the organization and its employees. It contributes to a positive work environment, strengthens the company’s social impact and reinforces its commitment to responsible business practices. And although we’ve only covered a few HR goals above, employee volunteerism and other community engagement programs that are accessible to all employees regardless of role are also key drivers of employee well-being and contribute to a sense of belonging.

Simply put, integrating social impact strategy with achieving HR goals helps build a positive workplace culture where employees feel connected to each other and to the organization’s broader goals and every leader can see the value in that.

The post Connecting Employee Volunteerism With Human Resource Goals appeared first on Points of Light.

MLK Day of Service is a call to action, in the spirit of Dr. King, who once said, “Everybody can be great because anyone can serve.” These words are an invitation to contribute to our communities, addressing issues that we are passionate about and that resonate with the values Dr. King championed.

As champions of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Points of Light Global Network Affiliates are offering a variety of volunteer activities across the country, making it easier for everyone to find a way to make a difference in their community. And if you don’t see an event in your community listed below, take a look at volunteer opportunities happening across America to find where you can get involved.

2024 MLK Day of Service Opportunities

1. Business Volunteers Maryland is collaborating with its dedicated partner, TEKsystems, to motivate its nationwide workforce to volunteer on MLK Day, especially in Baltimore. Their 2024 ambition is for all employees to participate in the “Day On Not Off,” either through sponsored events or individual volunteering, demonstrating a commitment to impact on MLK Day and beyond.

2. The Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership will honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with a tribute that has been running since 2014. After a pandemic hiatus, CVNL reignited the tradition in 2023. The event will feature opportunities for community service projects focusing on building a “Beloved Community” reflective of Dr. King’s ideals of inclusion, equity, justice and compassion.

3. Chicago Cares will be offering a one-day Civic Leadership Training Series, crafted to empower individuals for year-round impactful community engagement. This dynamic program, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., equips attendees with essential skills for sustainable civic leadership in a collaborative, immersive learning experience.

4. Hands On Atlanta will engage volunteers in metro Atlanta from Jan. 11-15, 2024, supporting more than 50 nonprofits focusing on food security, education and the environment, in line with Dr. King’s vision. This includes the 10th annual MLK Sunday Supper on Jan. 14, a gathering for Atlanta’s leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue about “Challenging the Status Quo.”

5. HandsOn Central California organizes an annual day of service in tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., mobilizing volunteers, corporate partners and organizations across Central California. This year, MLK Serve Projects will be active in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kings, Merced, Mariposa and Stanislaus Counties, addressing critical community needs.

6. HandsOn New Orleans and Shell Oil are teaming up to revitalize a public school campus in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The organization is seeking volunteers for various projects, including enhancing playgrounds, making over a library, constructing outdoor cafeteria seating, painting locker rooms and refurbishing basketball courts. The focus is on creating inclusive, stimulating spaces for individual and group play, incorporating STEM and music activities. Another event hosted by HandsOn New Orleans and Shell Oil will transform a budding public park via various outdoor projects, replicating the successful efforts of a local man who galvanized the community to restore his childhood recreation center after Hurricane Katrina.

7. HandsOn Northwest North Carolina has collaborated with Wake Forest University and others since 2010 to organize the Read-In event, promoting Dr. King’s ideals through literacy and service. The event pairs children ages 4 through 10 with college students for reading and enrichment activities, giving each child a civil-rights themed book. Annually engaging about 150 volunteers and 100 children, the event will take place this year at Winston-Salem State University.

8. Jersey Cares will mobilize 1,500 volunteers across ten New Jersey counties for a variety of projects, including school transformations, park revitalization, a social justice walk, workshops and care package assembly. These impactful activities will take place both on the day of and the day before the holiday, honoring Dr. King’s legacy through community service.

9. L.A. Works will commemorate Dr. King’s influential 1964 speech at the Coliseum with the MLK 2024 Volunteer Festival at the same venue. This event, aimed at building a beloved community, will feature thousands of volunteers engaging in diverse activities like hands-on service, a Minecraft March on Washington and a marketplace showcasing local BIPOC-owned businesses.

10. The Long Island Volunteer Center, in partnership with AHRC, is organizing a diverse group of volunteers for food drives and emergency food aid delivery. The event includes a march from the First Baptist Church in Glen Cove to the Glen Cove Middle School, where volunteers, including AHRC Nassau members, will assemble food bags for the North Shore Soup Kitchen. The day will also feature a celebratory program with artistic expressions themed on diversity and inclusivity.

11. OneOC’s 25th annual Day of Service will invite community members to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., through meaningful service. Partnering with the Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC) and the Orange County Food Bank, this event supports initiatives that have been improving lives and communities and fighting poverty in O.C. for more than 56 years.

12. United Way of Genesee County will again host its MLK Day of Service Food Packing Event. Launched in 2018 to address local hunger issues, this event engages volunteers in an assembly-line to pack 200,000 nutritious meals. These meals are then distributed by volunteers to various local food pantries, including churches and schools, ensuring widespread community impact.

13. United Way of Greenville County will offer an MLK Day of Service event on the 20214 MLK Day of Service. This day will focus on neighborhood cleanups to enhance the environment and community unity, along with hosting voter registration drives at each site to encourage civic engagement and honor Dr. King’s vision of equality and active community participation.

14. Volunteer Arlington’s 7th MLK Day of Service will feature diverse civic engagement projects like “Listen and Learn” sessions on affordable housing, training for “SNAP Ambassadors”, donation scavenger hunts, park cleanups, STEM kit packing and more. The event will also include the presentation of the “Beloved Community Award” to a leader exemplifying Dr. King’s vision.

15. The Volunteer Center of Burlington County’s 4th annual MLK Unity Celebration will feature the theme “Live, Love & Serve – Burlington County” from January 12-15. The event features a local video to inspire participation in MLK Day events and activities, available for individual viewing and at related events. Additionally, attendees can join the 18th annual MLK Challenge on MLK Day, involving card making and collections for three different causes.

16. The Volunteer Center of the Triad will host its annual MLK Day of Service, a significant community event for 15 years, celebrating Dr. King’s legacy through service. This day includes diverse activities like service projects for local nonprofits, a nonprofit fair, food drive, community art, performances and a children’s area with literacy support through Imagination Library. Join the “Kindness for King” initiative and the MLK Drive Clean-Up to make a meaningful impact.

17. Volunteer Fairfax will host its MLK Jr. Weekend of Service, starting with a community conversation on “Racial Equity: Practices and Competencies to Build Stamina and Strength” on January 10, led by award-winning moderator Natasha A. Harrison. This panel features community leaders discussing the implementation of racial equity practices. On January 15, “Give Together,” a family-friendly volunteer event for children (ages 5-12), will offer service projects across various areas, including food insecurity and elder care, guided by teen leaders. This event includes reflection on Dr. King’s legacy and the opportunity for youth to earn Passport stamps through participation.

18. Volunteer New York! will host its MLK Day 2024 Civic Circle Discussion, where they explore nine ways to lead a purposeful civic life. Attendees will have the chance to reflect on community involvement, vision and actions to make that vision a reality.

Points of Light is proud of the work our affiliates are championing for Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service this year. Do you want to participate in this day of service through volunteer opportunities near you? Visit Points of Light Engage to search our database of hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities. Together, we can keep Dr. King’s dream alive and thriving in communities across the nation.

The post 18 Volunteer Opportunities You Can Join to be a Part of 2024 MLK Day of Service appeared first on Points of Light.

Hear from our experts right here in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know it takes a village to create vibrant workplaces where employees are empowered to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.

Have questions about employee community engagement? Submit your question and it may be featured in a future blog post.

Dear CSR Friend,

I have managed my company’s employee volunteer program for years and, at the beginning of each year, we struggle to figure out the best method for distributing volunteer t-shirts before projects take place. Now that many of my colleagues are working remotely a few days a week, it’s posing an even more difficult logistical challenge. What are our best options?

Signed,

T-shirt Turmoil in Tupelo

Dear T-shirt Turmoil,

Having been nicknamed “T-Shirt Lady” in my previous social impact role, I feel your question and your quest deeply! For many companies, volunteer t-shirts serve as more than just promotional apparel; they embody a culture of community engagement and an outward display of employee pride. They also foster a sense of belonging and purpose among employees. But how and when do you get them into your eager employee volunteers’ hands?

Here’s a quick rundown of options you might try this year:

• Distribute During Onboarding for All New Hires: One of the best times to introduce employees to your company’s social impact initiatives is during their onboarding process. Providing them with a volunteer t-shirt from day one sets the tone for their journey within the company and demonstrates the company’s commitment to making a positive difference where they operate.
• Use an Annual Milestone to Send to All Employees: To keep the spirit of social impact alive, consider making it a tradition to send a volunteer t-shirt to all employees once a year, perhaps on the anniversary of the company’s founding or the month in which the employee volunteer program launched.
• Add to the Company’s Branded Merch Website: Make it easy for employees to get their hands on volunteer t-shirts 24/7 by adding them to the company’s branded merchandise website. Maybe they’ll even buy one to wear to the gym!
• Encourage Volunteers to Wear Vintage T-Shirts: Instead of creating new designs each year, invite employees to wear a branded company shirt or past volunteer t-shirt. This not only reduces waste but also creates a sense of nostalgia and pride. Those paint stains and rips will now be seen as badges of honor!
• Pick a Convenient Distribution Day: When distributing t-shirts, choose a day when most employees will be in the office, especially in a hybrid work environment. Distributing them in common areas like the lobby or cafeteria can be a great way to build excitement for your upcoming projects. Collaborate with your HR team in case there are other building-wide activities happening (or that COULD happen) on that day. Make sure distribution happens several days in advance of a volunteer project and bring a handful in different sizes to the project just in case a few employees forget or don’t have a chance to claim while in the office.

Three Extra Tips on T-Shirts:

• Fostering a sense of belonging with volunteer t-shirts includes ensuring there is a range of sizes available for all employees. If they can’t obtain a shirt in a size they feel comfortable in, an employee is sure to feel excluded, which might dissuade them from participating and certainly diminishes the company pride and community vibes branded t-shirts can establish.
• When selecting a vendor to work with for design, production and shipping of your volunteer t-shirts no matter when you distribute, consider collaborating with organizations that align with your company’s values. Look for partners that serve a greater purpose, such as veteran-owned, female-owned, or minority-owned businesses like Social Imprints. Some even offer options to offset shipping and production emissions.
• The production and shipping of t-shirts each year can seem wasteful not just to you but also to eco-smart employees. Choose materials that are not only comfortable to wear but also environmentally responsible. Provide instructions for employees on how to repurpose their shirts when they’re no longer wearable, such as donating them to a local charity or turning them into reusable bags or dog toys.

Incorporating volunteer t-shirts into your employer’s social impact strategy (and budget) can be a powerful way to promote a sense of unity and purpose among your employees. These shirts become more than just clothing; they become symbols of your company’s commitment to the community. And they serve as the perfect attire for capturing photos that can be used for internal and external communications, showcasing the positive impact employees are making, both offline and online.

Until Next Month,

Your CSR Friend

Learn more about how we can help you level up your social impact work and why your company should join top social impact leadership and become a member of the Points of Light Corporate Service Council.

The post Ask a CSR Friend: Distributing Employee Volunteer T-shirts appeared first on Points of Light.

While many see Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a day off, we see it as a “day on.” It’s an opportunity to start your year in the spirit of volunteerism and service, continuing the legacy of Dr. King, who spent his life working to better the lives of others.

Just as Martin Luther King Jr. believed in service, so did Points of Light founder President George H. W. Bush. Once saying, “Any definition of a successful life must include serving others,” President Bush recognized the importance of this day when he signed the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Commission Extension Act in 1989. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating MLK Day as a national day of service.

Since then, each year on MLK Day, Points of Light calls together its community of changemakers to reflect on gains won during the Civil Rights Movement and to address contemporary issues facing our nation through acts of volunteer service.

ways you can get involved on Jan. 15, 2024 For a day on, not a day off

Volunteer

Visit Points of Light’s Engage platform to find MLK Day volunteer opportunities in your community. You can also create your own project using one of our DIY toolkits. Many of the Points of Light Global Network affiliates are hosting volunteer events for MLK Day. You can search our network to find opportunities near you.

Host a Sunday Supper

Inspired by Dr. King’s vision that people of diverse backgrounds would come together to discuss injustices of the day and create a plan for action, “Sunday Suppers” call people to engage in dialogue about issues affecting their communities. Conversations, a form of civic engagement, about pressing topics are important because they are often the starting point for change.

Get Kids Involved

Volunteering as a family is a special opportunity to bond, create memories and help others. Include kids in your MLK Day service plans. Volunteer together and use this time to lead by example around what MLK’s legacy means for the United States today.

Honor a Volunteer

Recognize volunteer leaders with the MLK Drum Majors for Service Award. This special President’s Volunteer Service Award honors volunteers who perform extraordinary everyday acts of service. You can also nominate a deserving volunteer for the Daily Point of Light Award.

As the first national day of service in 2024, let MLK Day be your start to a year-long commitment to service. Leading a life of volunteerism has been shown to have benefits not only to the community, but also to the volunteer. And there are so many opportunities to get involved.

Join us on MLK Day to jumpstart a year of volunteerism and service to make our communities, and the world, a better place for all.

The post Make Martin Luther King Day a Day “On,” Not a Day Off appeared first on Points of Light.