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Volunteer leave programs mark progressive firms
October 31, 1994; Canadian FundRaiser
Public-spirited Canadian companies are embracing an expanded definition of corporate philosophy --- one that is inclusive of families and socially interactive. Nowhere is this more evident than in the trend to encourage and support paid volunteer leave time for employees involved in community service. Whether programs are formal or informal, structured or flexible, staff-driven or management-directed, clearly everyone is a winner.
Local staff set programs
At the forefront of this movement is the Body Shop, pacesetting and socially responsive in its own right. The company's volunteer philosophy is so ingrained, head office pays 16 hours of voluntary leave monthly to each of its 108 shops across the country. Largely associated with women's issues, AIDS and environmental causes, the Body Shop encourages local staffs to direct their own efforts, with the understanding that staff are in the best position to know what their own communities need.
Esprit takes a similar approach. Though management is responsible for making ongoing affiliation decisions (Earth Day and AIDS), other causes are considered from time to time. Taking responsibility is inbred at Esprit. While offering programs that are less structured, involvement remains high.
Social and corporate responsibility is taught by example. Whther strengthening ties with shelters, providing meal or counselling programs for children, organizing clothing drives or walkathons, Canadians are finding that they have a role to play through their place of business. Corporate leave programs have an undeniably positive effect on the fabric of Canadian philanthropy.
With employee participation estimated between 70 and 80 per cent (project-dependent), volunteer retention reates in excess of 90 per cent after employment, and over 60 per cent of involved employees expanding their commitment to include personal evening, weekend and holiday time, the impact is substantial indeed.
Quality of employee life improves
The resultant benefits speak for themselves. For employees, volunteer programs offer pride of association, motivation, a sense of fulfillment and a new appreciation of the work environment. Breaking the monotony of the day and promoting greater interpersonal relationships, the quality of employee lives improves.
From the employer's perspective, the policy promotes a desirable public image translating into a larger and more loyal market share. Encouraging a new respect for management, and strengthening employee relations and communications, the real bonus can be measured in decreased turnover rates, improved productivity, a positive working environment and, in general, better quality products and services.
For these visionaries, recognition is secondary, and nowhere is there evidence of anyone taking advantage of their generosity. It seems that the new corporate sensibility is working well and paying big dividends. As the business culture shifts to a more holistic approach, the largest beneficiary will be the charitable community. By providing broader and stronger ties to business, healthier volunteer bases, improved financial support and a wider public awareness, Canadian business not only serves its constituents well, it champions the philanthropic cause.