employee volunteer programs

July 13, 2023

Episode #66: Partnering with Corporate Employee Volunteer Programs with Lynn Margherio

In this episode, Tobi interviews Lynn Margherio about the importance of partnering with corporate employee volunteer programs and how this collaboration can benefit nonprofits in terms of impact and engagement. Skilled volunteers can bring immense talent, expertise, and financial support to nonprofits. However, many nonprofits are hesitant to connect with employee volunteer programs.

Lynn Margherio is the founder and CEO of Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit organization that provides clothing, school supplies, and other essential items to children in need. She has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and is a recognized leader in the field of volunteer management. Lynn has been involved in developing partnerships with corporate employee volunteer programs, and in this episode, she shares her insights and advice on how nonprofits can effectively engage with these programs to maximize their impact.

Employee Volunteer Programs – What Is Corporate Employee Volunteer Programs

Corporate Employee Volunteer Programs are initiatives and opportunities provided by companies to their employees to engage in volunteer work and contribute to their communities. These programs encourage and support employees in dedicating their time and skills to nonprofit organizations and community service projects. It can take on various forms, such as one-time events, ongoing volunteering, skills-based volunteering, or pro bono services. These programs not only benefit the communities they serve but also enhance employee engagement, job satisfaction, and teamwork within the corporate environment.

Employee Volunteer Programs – Value of Corporate Employee Volunteer Programs

Corporate employee volunteer programs can bring a wealth of talent, expertise, and financial support to nonprofit organizations. However, many nonprofits are hesitant to connect with these programs due to preconceived notions or a fear of feeling inferior. Lynn believes that it is crucial for nonprofits to recognize their own value and understand that corporations are made up of people who genuinely care about causes.

Employee Volunteer Programs – Show Highlights

00:30.2 Tobi intro today’s episode on partnering with corporate employee volunteer programs

02:19.6 Bio for Lynn Margherio

06:50.2 What does volunteerism and corporate social responsibility mean to Lynn

09:45.1 How to get people started with corporations?

18:12.6 Navigate between small projects and long term needs

24:46.9 Tracking metrics with employee volunteers

30:14.0 How do we really involve employee volunteer programs to be best affect?

43:07.5 Where do you recommend they go to find potential employee volunteer partners?

50:24.3 What are you most excited about in the year ahead?

52:09.9 Where to find info on Cradles to Crayons?

Employee Volunteer Programs – Quotes from the Episode

“Nonprofits sometimes feel inferior to the corporate world, but they have something to offer that the corporate environment cannot: purpose.”

“Starting small and pilot testing is a good strategy for those who are new to volunteering.”

“Reflecting on and debriefing volunteer experiences can help them find meaning in their work.”

“Connecting volunteer tasks to the mission of the organization can help volunteers understand the importance of their work.”

“People want to support charities that feel meaningful to them.”

“Partnering with corporate employee volunteer programs can create opportunities for nonprofits.”

Helpful Links

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Nonprofit leadership author, trainer, consultant, and volunteer management expert Tobi Johnson shares weekly tips to help charities build, grow, and scale exceptional volunteer teams. Discover how your nonprofit can effectively coordinate volunteers who are reliable, equipped, and ready to help you bring about BIG change for the better.

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