We all know that volunteers are the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations. They’re the unsung heroes, the silent warriors, and the backbone of making the world a better place. But let’s be honest, coordinating these eager volunteers is a full-time logistical job that could make a seasoned event planner break a sweat. If you think volunteering is as simple as showing up and picking up litter, think again. It’s a complex puzzle, and nonprofits need all the help they can get. But, here’s the hilarious twist: corporate volunteer days, while well-intentioned, can sometimes cost nonprofits more than they budgeted.
A straightforward 2-hour volunteer service event for the volunteer is as easy as showing up, picking up trash, snapping a few photos for the company newsletter, and basking in the glory of a job well done. But, surprise, surprise, behind the scenes, it’s more like herding cats – emails, phone calls, permissions, ordering supplies, etc. A 2 hour service event can take anywhere from eight to fifteen hours to coordinate. If the project isn’t tied to a specific funding source, guess where the staff time and supplies come from? Yep, you guessed it: out of the general operating funds. Ouch.
Let’s juxtapose this with a classic team-building exercise, like sending your team to an escape room. You’d never expect to pay a grand total of zero dollars, right? After all, it’s all in the name of camaraderie and corporate synergy. But when you send them to a nonprofit for a volunteer day, those few hours of service could also include dollars for the organization. Nonprofit organizations that work tirelessly to transform the natural environment through gardens, trees, parks, and other amazing projects often face a harsh reality – maintenance is their biggest ongoing unfunded or underfunded expense.
So here’s a novel idea: the next time your company wants to volunteer as your team-building activity, consider including a donation. I suggest starting at $1,000, which could help offset the cost of coordinating the event, provide supplies, and even contribute to ongoing maintenance. Think of it as an investment in making the world a better place. And if your team is feeling especially generous, $5,000 is a solid amount to ensure your day of service doesn’t turn into a day of financial strain for the nonprofit.
Corporate volunteer days are fantastic, and I’m not suggesting you stop participating. Even though it might not seem like it, those hours of service can still have a cost. With a little financial support, you can transform your corporate goodwill into a standing ovation, and we can all share in the laughter, the joy, and the impact we create together.