Did you know 75% of U.S. adults feel physically healthier by volunteering? Engaging in volunteer work not only enhances physical health but also promotes emotional well-being. People who volunteer their time off are significantly more likely to think they have greater control over their health and well-being. Volunteers report the following benefits: Volunteering can create a sense of purpose, enrich personal lives, and establish crucial social connections that often lead to lasting friendships.
Additionally, volunteering can provide opportunities for skill development. For example, an employee might learn project management skills while organizing a community event or improve their communication abilities while working with diverse groups of people.
- 93% improved mood
- 79% lower stress levels
- 88% increased self-esteem
These results and the increasing recognition among business leaders that making a positive impact and giving back to communities is crucial have led more companies to offer Volunteer Time Off (VTO). Implementing VTO can transform workplace culture, fostering a sense of community and shared values among employees.
What Is Volunteer Time Off (VTO)?
Employer-sponsored volunteerism is organizational support, often in the form of paid leave or sponsorship, for employees pursuing volunteer opportunities or performing community services. Many organizations, from large Fortune 500 companies to small local businesses, encourage employees to volunteer their time off in their communities, which boosts employee morale, personal satisfaction, and the bottom line. According to a study by United Healthcare, employees who volunteer through work report feeling better about their employer and strengthened bonds with co-workers, leading to improved teamwork and collaboration within the workplace.
VTO is Not PTO
VTO is a form of approved employee leave that is becoming more common as companies focus on employee engagement and retention. This initiative allows employees to volunteer during work hours without sacrificing their income. By implementing VTO, businesses can cultivate a more engaged workforce, encouraging team collaboration and enhancing corporate social responsibility.
Employees can use Paid Time Off however they like, without providing an explanation or proof to the company. In contrast, VTO must be spent in service to a community or charitable organization, and the company reserves the right to request documentation confirming the time was used in the manner requested. This distinction helps companies track their community engagement and the impact of their VTO programs.
Understanding the difference between VTO and Paid Time Off (PTO) is essential for both employers and employees. PTO encompasses everything from employee absences to personal, vacation, or sick days. On the other hand, VTO and PTO should be separate banks of time, designed for distinct purposes. Employees may use PTO for charity work, but VTO cannot be used as PTO. Clear communication regarding these policies ensures employees understand their options and can plan accordingly.
Variety in VTO
A successful VTO policy should include the amount of time employees may take off, any requirements for volunteering activities, and how an employee can get their request approved. It’s important to create a policy that is flexible enough to accommodate the diverse interests and capabilities of employees while aligning with the company’s mission and community focus.
Volunteering is meaningful in different ways for each employee. Some may feel a strong connection to environmental causes, while others may prioritize education or health-related initiatives. When setting policy details, you’ll need to decide what works best with your company’s goals, taking into account the values and passions of your workforce.
You can give employees free rein to pick a nonprofit they believe in for their day(s) of service. Some companies choose to limit where employees can volunteer. For instance, if your company has relationships with nonprofits in your area, it might make sense to limit employees to those organizations to continue providing support for their goals. This approach not only reinforces community partnerships but also allows employees to feel that they are part of a larger mission.
If you let your employees choose their nonprofits to support, consider offering a few inspirational suggestions. Include the contact information for some nonprofit organizations so your employees can easily contact and schedule their volunteer time off. Providing a list of vetted organizations can empower employees and make it easier for individuals who haven’t volunteered before to get started, ensuring they have a positive and rewarding experience.
You might choose to offer blocks of VTO for specific organizations. For example, a construction firm might give employees up to five days of VTO a year to assist with local Habitat for Humanity builds. This type of initiative not only benefits the community but also helps employees develop teamwork and leadership skills while making a tangible difference.
To maximize the impact of your VTO program, add an explanation of your VTO policy and additional details on your company intranet and in your employee handbook. This ensures that all employees are aware of the opportunities available to them. Moreover, make sure to use pictures of employees volunteering on your company’s social media. Showcasing employees’ volunteer efforts can enhance company culture and inspire others to participate, creating a ripple effect of community engagement.
Make Volunteering Visible
Add an explanation of your VTO policy and additional details on your company intranet and in your employee handbook. Make sure to use pictures of employees volunteering on your company’s social media.
Should Your Company Offer VTO?
Deloitte research shows that 70% of employees feel VTO raises morale more than company events. Offering VTO can be a cost-effective way to boost employee satisfaction and retention, even with tight budgetary restrictions. “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde. By incorporating VTO into your company culture, you can demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility while enhancing employee engagement.
Additional Resources: Consider exploring more on how VTO can benefit your company and employees, including articles and case studies that highlight successful VTO implementations.
Sources:
https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2017/0914studydoinggoodisgoodforyou.html
https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/citizenship-deloitte-volunteer-impact-research.html
https://www.corporatecivicengagement.com/
