How group charity activities can raise more than just funds
On the 3rd of May, Chorus Executive will be taking part in the Wings For Life World Run, which raises money for research into spinal cord injuries. The team, joined by a few of our clients, will be running in this momentous global event where the whole world will be running at exactly the same time. That means we start at 9pm here in Melbourne! I’d like to take this opportunity to talk about how much charity events and volunteer work can bring teams together. Most companies hold a set of values that they include in their mission statement, their induction process and perhaps they even visually represent them in the office. But what good are words if you can’t foster the meaning of them through behaviour? This is where group charity activities, such as Wings For Life, can put words into action, create a better understanding of your company values and create a sense of community engagement for employees. Studies have proven that group volunteer work and charity fundraising will raise the morale and engagement of employees and increase social bonds. Philanthropic activities strengthen four key areas in a workplace:
- Productivity – When employees are engaged, they are more productive. Absenteeism decreases and employee satisfaction increases.
- Gratitude – Giving employees the chance to take part in charitable causes strengthens their emotional connection to the employer
- Ethical Behaviour – Taking part in philanthropic activities strengthens ethical decision making skills in employees.
- Pride – Working for an employer that cares about the community creates a sense of pride in employees and thus strengthens their engagement. This is particularly crucial with Gen Y workers.
So when was the last time your business, team or even family, did something together for a good cause? You may regularly donate to a charity, but what about getting out there and taking action as a united team? If you’d like to join Chorus Executive at the Wings For Life Run, we’re more than happy to have you and your team on board. You don’t need to be able to run, just walking is fine and it doesn’t even have to be for a long distance. Check out Wings For Life for more information and give me a call if you’d like to join us! If you’d prefer to make a donation and sponsor our team-mate Warren Crawford, whose brother suffered from a spinal cord injury, please click here. Warren would love your support!