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The Ultimate Guide to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with Step-By-Step Instructions
Read moreConsumers want to do business with companies who practice corporate social responsibility – and for good reason.Companies that have a good CSR program have a long-term view on doing business and understand their impact on society. These companies know their business has a ripple effect, so they focus on how they can do the most good without sacrificing profits.Companies that take the time to design and implement a thoughtful, intentional CSR strategy are often rewarded with loyal customers, a strong, talented workforce, and a positive public image.In other words, consumers want to buy from businesses that are making a lasting positive social impact and employees want to work for those same companies doing good in the world.Corporate social responsibility (CSR) helps create a framework for greater corporate purpose, and promises a better future with sustainable business operations.In this Ultimate Corporate Social Responsibility Guide, we define corporate social responsibility and explain how to align and leverage CSR best practices for your company. We also give you tips on how you can make your company socially responsible and how to make the case for including CSR programs to your executive team.
What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
Corporate social responsibility is the integration of societal and environmental concerns into the strategy and operations of a business.It consists of initiatives and policies founded on the principle that companies should play a positive role in the community and be accountable for the impacts they have on society as a whole, alongside making profits.Corporations accomplish this by ensuring existing business practices are responsible and sustainable, and that corporate philanthropy supports causes that are meaningful and aligned to their core business.With a commitment to implement a strong CSR strategy, companies have an opportunity to determine where and how their business intersects with communities. They can support solutions to a range of social problems like poverty, hunger, and disease.For example, the food company Campbell’s saw an opportunity to align its core business with the challenges surrounding access to healthy and nutritious food. In response, they implemented a 10-year program to improve food access in Camden, New Jersey.Companies also have a responsibility to protect the environment, maintain a safe, inclusive workplace for employees, and even consider how a portion of profits could support social and environmental initiatives, such as programs that provide clean water to those in need, or help maintain and increase access to free public parks in underserved communities.Companies that operate with CSR best practices are proud to share how they give back to society, often through cause-related messaging, to encourage employees to volunteer and customers to support business.As a byproduct, companies that grow in size also grow the size of their CSR programs. This growth gives corporations the opportunity to make a larger social impact as well as bring in more profits.
Why does CSR Matter?
Growing expectations by consumers and employees around the positive role that companies can and should play in society means that CSR matters more than ever. Increasingly, it can impact the bottom line - with consumers rewarding companies for their efforts to operate responsibly by purchasing their products in larger quantities, and with higher prices, just to name a few.Corporations must learn how to adapt to the demands of this shift in consumer behavior while continuing to produce the goods consumers want.
Reasons why companies practice corporate social responsibility
Business Longevity
In the past, a corporation's main responsibility was to make money for its shareholders. And while that is still important, it is also true that shareholder value can be increased through a business model that is more responsible and sustainable.An example of a company that has grown and benefited by integrating CSR into its core business practices is Dr. Bronner’s. Not only has their CSR program improve customer loyalty, it’s helped make a positive social impact.
Employee Engagement and Retention
Employees, especially the Gen Z workforce, increasingly want to work for a company that aligns with their values. Employees are most engaged with a company that is giving back to the community. A growing trend in business shows that employee satisfaction and employee-to-company relationships directly impact performance.Companies with strong CSR practices can see increased productivity from their employees, less turnover and attrition rates, less absenteeism, enhanced loyalty and goodwill towards the organization, and positive word of mouth.As a byproduct of a company’s CSR efforts, employees also feel their individual interests being taken care of, especially for those who offer employee benefits packages that include health, retirement, and charitable giving programs that empower employees to give to charity.
Attract and keep customers
It is possible that some, if not most, of companies’ customers will have a social agenda of their own and may not be willing to support a company that is not socially responsible. Research has shown that customers are four to six times more likely to buy from and trust a company that has a strong sense of purpose.The companies that can tap into consumers’ sentiments around social and environmental issues and prove they are responsible corporate actors will likely have an edge over competitors who don’t.
Public Reputation
It’s no secret that a company’s reputation and their social responsibility are closely linked. Practicing social responsibility gives a company a chance to have the secondary benefit of making a positive impact on their reputation.Having a good reputation in the community and with the public is a major factor in growing a successful business.
Corporate social responsibility benefits
While few People Leaders see CSR as a burden of business operation, corporate social responsibility campaigns actually afford several benefits to businesses.A good CSR campaign that promises to improve employee retention saves a company in onboarding and training expenses as well as the opportunity costs that come with losing talented employees.Furthermore, companies with useful CSR-supporting software can save on hiring data-entry specialists. Tools like Groundswell can cut out the administrative duty needed for managing a corporate giving program.
How to Build a CSR Program
- Identify important company goals
- Understand consumer interests
- Brainstorm programs
- Carry out program plans
- Measure results
Designing and implementing a CSR program must be guided by the company’s business strategy, customer expectations, and employees’ interests. It is often shaped by the company’s operational footprint, the industry or sector, and where employees are based.
1. Identify important company goals
The first step is to identify and prioritize important company goals and how the CSR program supports those. This includes understanding your industry and the challenges that you are going up against, both today but also what is on the horizon.Take note of how the business is going, who the detractors are and who the supporters are. This information will help guide your CSR campaigns during planning.
2. Understand consumer interests
Put yourself in the shoes of your customer and what they might be looking for. You’ll find this exercise enlightening and helpful in deciding where to put your resources. Do they support your business (product, service, etc) because of an existing CSR program that inspires them?Aligning your programs to not just meet the expectations of your customers but give them a sense of pride and true connection to your business puts the company in a better position to compete with companies offering similar products or services.It also helps to find out what employees care about. Often, employees are also consumers, so getting to know your workforce can provide strong insights.
3. Design programs
The communities closest to your business, its operational footprint, and reach of the product or services, will be the first to experience your social impact. This can be mapped based on geographic footprint as well as demographic groups. Based on this mapping, you might identify and provide funding to nonprofits that are serving those communities closest to the business.If your employee base is also local, then supporting local schools, community centers, and other social programs can result in a healthier, thriving workforce.Aligning your CSR programs with stakeholder interests helps your company’s reputation, as well as helps build stronger, positive relationships in the community.As you brainstorm and design programs, think of ways you can make a positive impact on the lives of your employees, customers, and the broader community.During the design phase, it’s also important to articulate your overarching goals and develop Key Performance Indicators to help you measure progress against those goals. This is a critical part of program design that will enable you to report back to internal and external stakeholders on the value of the programs.
4. Carry out CSR programs
Once the planning stages of your CSR program are complete, it’s time to carry out your campaigns.After some time, your company’s CSR program will go through several changes and continue to refine itself. As long as your team puts an effort in organizing and managing the CSR program, you can feel confident that you’ll develop a program that works best for your business.A great way to get started with a CSR program that requires little-to-no administrative requirements, corporate giving and matching programs work well.
5. Measure results
In order to celebrate the successes but also make necessary adjustments, it’s important to gather data and keep track of your progress by measuring your program’s impact.Some key performance indicators (KPIs) of a good CSR program could include a number of community members served/impacted by the nonprofit programs your company supports; level or percentage of employee engagement in a giving or volunteer program; and an improved or positive ‘score’ on CSR rankings (e.g. Dow Jones Sustainability Index, 3BL Corporate Citizens Awards, Sustainable Brands, etc).
Examples of Companies with Amazing Corporate Social Responsibility Programs
Patagonia is an outdoor clothing company based in Ventura, California. Their mission is to create quality products that last a lifetime.In addition to its sustainability practices and its clothing-repair program, Patagonia donates its profits to its nonprofit, Holdfast Collective, an organization dedicated to fighting the environmental crisis and defending nature.Starbucks is a coffee company based in Seattle, Washington. This people, planet, and profit-positive focused company has CSR programs focused on inclusion and diversity.Starbucks established the Starbucks Foundation in 1997, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with the goal of strengthening humanity by uplifting communities. As part of their mission, the have the goal of hiring 25,000 US military veterans and spouses by 2025 as part of their program.Toms is a shoe company based in Los Angeles who pioneered the One for One model–which was a program that gave away one pair of shoes for every pair sold.Today, Toms gives away ⅓ of profits to fund grassroots initiatives to help those in need of support for mental health. Since 2006, Toms has given away over 100,000,000 shoes and impacted just as many lives.Bombas is a clothing company based in New York whose mission is to put thoughtfully designed, essential clothing into the hands and onto the feet of those in need.The company donates the #1, #2, and #3 most requested items to homeless shelters as well as donates one pair of socks for every pair of socks purchased. To date, Bombas has donated over 75 million items.
Pitching your CSR Program to Your Executive Team
1. Frame Your Pitch
When pitching your CSR campaigns to your executive team, you want frame your presentation in a way that speaks to why the programs are valuable to the business and not just “for the good of society.”Executives have a responsibility to grow the business and return value to shareholders, so a CSR program needs to stay aligned with business objectives to be considered worth the budget required to execute it.Framing your pitch to speak on the goals of the business, how the CSR program will help employee performance, how the program aids in employee retention, and how it reduces the cost of onboard and training new employees will help your executive team understand the benefit from a business point of view.
2. Collect Supporting Data
As you create your presentation, include a section that discusses the impact CSR campaigns have had on business results in recent years.Look for information highlighting employee satisfaction and retention as a result of CSR programs as well as reports on employee productivity and performance.There’s a strong correlation between employee performance and CSR programs that have been proven through scholarly research.The Wall Street Journal reported companies experience 52% lower turnover among newer employees involved in corporate-purpose programs.
3. Choose the Right Program Software
Part of managing your CSR programs is having the right software to support your team’s needs.Depending on the CSR programs you have in place, there are a handful of software you can use to take the hard work out of implementation, organization, and management.For example, when considering how best to empower employees to donate to charities, Groundswell Giving is an example of a corporate giving platform that takes the work out of managing a workplace giving program. What’s more, Groundswell provides program administrators easy access to the data to help report back to key internal stakeholders about the causes that are supported, top charities, total funds sent to charities, and level of employee engagement in the program.
4. Present to Your Team
During your presentation, be sure to communicate how the corporate social responsibility program will help the company achieve its larger business goals.While you’ll want to speak to the broader importance of practicing corporate social responsibility, your message will resonate most with the executive decision-makers when your message is paired with the business case for the CSR programs.
It’s easy enough to incorporate DEI into your values statement and add a page or two to your website. But like every other aspect of your business, when it comes to implementation, things can get a bit more complicated. If you find yourself wondering how to promote diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the real world, you are not alone.The good news is, however, that it can be done. It’s worth getting it right, too, because the rewards will come. For many companies, it’s not just a matter of sentiment. In fact, diversity doesn’t always feel warm and fuzzy. Sometimes it can feel a little uncomfortable. But that’s when you know it’s working and you’re reaping the benefits.In today’s climate, diversity, equity and inclusion matter. In this article, you’ll not only learn more about why it matters, but you’ll also understand how it feels. Finally, we’ll give you some ideas on how to promote DEI in the workplace.
Why DEI Matters
The data just keeps stacking up. Diversity is good for your business. Of course, DEI is competing with a myriad of other business imperatives. But when it comes to cultivating a high-performing organization, there are many compelling reasons that DEI should garner attention. Diverse teams are more engaged and productive. The best teams are adept at problem-solving and spawning innovation. Teams that are gender diverse are powerhouses, but teams that mix ethnic backgrounds? Even better.Yet many organizations simply have not matured in their DEI efforts so that they can reap the full benefits. In a 2022 HR Research Institute survey, although 44% of respondents said that their organization’s DEI initiative plays a role in strategic planning, just 9% of companies said that the effort was very effective. That leaves a lot of room for improvement.The U.S. is becoming increasingly diverse. The 2020 Census revealed that nearly half of the population under the age of 18 identify as something other than white. Companies that invest resources into their DEI initiatives will be able to reap long-term benefits. Those that do not will fall behind.
Forget About How It Looks. What Does DEI Feel Like?
Diversity is something you can try to quantify. But the numbers alone are not enough. In order to get the benefits from your DEI efforts, you need to cultivate an equitable and inclusive work environment. In short, this means that employees feel a sense of belonging. While there are various reasons employees give when asked why they feel they do not belong, researchers at Columbia Business School say it comes down to “identity threat.” Identity threat is anything that makes someone feel different than others. This can be relatively minor, such as when a manager talks to a group of low-income employees about vacationing in Italy. It also includes micro-aggressions, such as when a highly qualified Black manager is told that she is “so articulate.” Researchers found that participants reported an average of 11 such experiences a week. Although identity threat is associated with feeling excluded, that isn’t all. More importantly, individuals feel that they cannot be themselves at work. Predictably, this leads to discontent and may explain why some companies lose diverse employees as quickly as they bring them on.
How To Get the Most Out of DEI Efforts
DEI isn’t about walking on eggshells. However, it does require that managers think more deeply about how to root out systemic and institutional biases. Laying blame on groups or individuals for implicit biases doesn’t help, nor does it ingratiate employees to the cause. Either they feel exonerated because their biases are not their fault, or they feel blamed because they have chosen to embrace their biases. We all have biases, implicit or otherwise. The larger problem is that some of the most harmful biases are ingrained in the policies of our institutions. So it helps to think broadly about what must change. Tackle the big issues and the smaller issues start to fade. It is apparently what has happened in the gay and lesbian community. As more people came out, the idea became less foreign. More connections, or the “contact hypothesis” as psychologists have called it, led to greater acceptance and the shedding of biases. The same thing can happen in the workplace.Meanwhile, here are five ways to systemically promote DEI in the workplace.
Examine Your Company Policies
When you created your company DEI policy, you may have reviewed other policies to ensure alignment. Go back and revisit those documents with a fresh eye. There may be bias embedded in these policies that you didn’t recognize. Or perhaps you need additional guidelines. For example, many diverse employees may be primary caregivers. Does your leave policy take this into account?
Promote Pay Equity
According to the HR Research survey, just 9% of companies say that equitable pay is a top priority for executives. The gender pay gap still exists in 94% of all occupations. During the pandemic, women were net losers, dropping out of the workforce in record numbers, exacerbating inequities that existed pre-COVID. There is no better time to refocus on pay equity.
Train Often
DEI training should never be considered complete. You don’t need to throw out your bias training. But remember the big picture. Focus on how inequities are built into systems. The goal is to raise the overall level of cultural sensitivity and reflect these values systemically. It helps if senior executives split their attendance among multiple sessions and offer kudos, both publicly and privately, to employees who are there. Offer refresher courses annually and reward participation so that everybody attends.
Mix Things Up
Ensure that teams, workgroups and task forces are diverse. Bring lower-level employees into executive meetings when possible. Encourage groups to participate across functions and include upper management when it seems appropriate. Mixing things up can feel uncomfortable. But this is how new and different ideas emerge. Promote your best team leaders — those that ensure that all team members feel included and heard.
Facilitate Feedback
It’s essential to understand how diversity is working in your company. It’s also essential for diverse employees to receive feedback. Giving feedback is a difficult job for many managers. They may be especially reluctant to offer feedback to diverse employees. This means that diverse employees receive less mentoring and guidance and fewer opportunities to make course corrections and advance in the organization. Ensure that the feedback conversation is a two-way conversation. Train your managers as needed.
Support Nonprofits
Align your philanthropic activities to support nonprofits that improve diverse communities. Remember that people like to work for companies that share their values. When you provide matching donations, as well, it democratizes the process so that every employee can have a voice. There are many benefits that accrue to businesses that figure out how to build a truly inclusive culture. With a proactive approach, your company can push your DEI initiative beyond the numbers and retain the diverse talent it attracts. If you need a better way to set up and manage your corporate giving program, Groundswell can help. We can get your program up and running fast, providing an excellent giving experience for your employees.
Giving Tuesday is fast approaching, so we wanted to give you great Giving Tuesday ideas. Now’s the time when nonprofits ask their patrons and donors to dig a little deeper to finish off the annual donations drive with a strong push.Normally December is the month when donations peak. Giving Tuesday donations serve as a kickoff, establishing the momentum for this important month of generosity. Although the proceeds from Giving Tuesday benefit nonprofits, businesses play an important role. It’s a great opportunity to help the community and invest in causes that support the company’s values. Employees, too, will appreciate the chance to participate in meaningful ways.
What Is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday rolls around every year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, or perhaps, more appropriately, after Black Friday. But it’s not nearly as old. It was started in 2012 at the 92nd Street Y in New York City by soon-to-be-CEO Henry Timms and co-founded by the United Nations Foundation. Timms’s idea was to reverse the trend of heavy consumerism surrounding Black Friday and encourage everyone to give back. Sure, people like Bill Gates tweeted about it and helped to spread the word. But the idea was supercharged by families and small communities that embraced the idea and ran with it, asking themselves and their children what they stood for, and then donating and pitching in to help the causes they really cared about.According to Timms' interview with PBS, “We need to stop seeing people as donors and start seeing them as owners.” In the new paradigm that Timms envisioned, the role of the donor extends far beyond money. It also includes giving time, a voice and ideas to confront the problems in an increasingly interconnected world. What surprised and delighted Timms most was that, from the very beginning, the idea captured the hearts of people around the world who wanted to make the idea even better. Today, Giving Tuesday has become part of their traditions.
Why Is It Important?
Giving Tuesday provides a boost to donations for the year, encouraging businesses and individuals to give in whatever ways suit them best. It’s a chance to raise more money than on an average day and serve to kick-start the year-end giving campaign. Those who want to take advantage of tax-deductible donations will be looking for opportunities to contribute. Further, Giving Tuesday donations leverage the generosity that has long been a tradition of the holiday season. Giving Tuesday can provide a boost to your brand. You can leverage the opportunity to let customers know about the good things your company does year-round. It’s well established that customers care about purchasing from companies that are charitable. And it's not just about feeling good either. Recent research has discovered that people purchase from companies that demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) because they believe that the company’s products and services are safer and of higher quality.Giving Tuesday is also an opportunity to remind employees that they are part of a company that cares. Employees who work for companies with generous giving initiatives are likely to be happier and more engaged than employees who work for other companies.
How Companies Can Make a Difference When It Comes to Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is more than a once-a-year symbolic movement of generosity. It’s about individuals who ask what they can do and then act in powerful ways to help others. It’s about mobilizing communities so that they are empowered and self-advocating. But it’s also about companies, both large and small, doing what they can to support the communities they serve. Everybody and every organization can make a difference.Companies with CSR initiatives are uniquely positioned to do more than individuals. CSR is all about companies taking a positive role in the community. In addition to considering the ethical and environmental impact of their operation and making sound fiduciary decisions, the most progressive companies are proactive in their philanthropic pursuits. That means making the world a better place. There are many ways to do this including donating to worthy causes and creating their own trusts.Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity to highlight your company’s ongoing activities such as volunteering, matching donations and other activities. Treat it as part of your overall corporate philanthropy strategy.
Giving Tuesday Best Practices
Here are some best practices that companies have used to ensure that their Giving Tuesday event is successful.
Set Your Values
It’s important to have alignment between the company's values and its decisions and actions. This is equally important with your philanthropic efforts. Revisit why charitable giving matters so that as you develop your strategies you develop a long-term plan.
Define Targets
Before you establish goals, you’ll need to think about the targets. Your Giving Tuesday initiative should have something in it for the community as well as for your customers and employees. For example, giving a portion of sales is a good way to include customers.
Inventory Your Resources
There are always more needs than there are resources available to help. But just remember, Giving Tuesday goes beyond dollar donations. There is also employee time, goods and services, managerial talent, facilities and social media reach.
Establish Goals
Take stock of your resources and commit to specific and measurable goals. Edit and prioritize so that you can devote sufficient time to achieving the goals you set.
Make a Plan
Choose some ideas and decide how to implement them. Start planning early so that you have time to fine-tune the details. To support your efforts, ensure that your communication strategy is buttoned up. Include, for example, an email campaign, social media outreach and a robust webpage.
Establish Metrics
Measure so that you will have benchmarks for your future efforts. In addition to the ROI, you will also want to know who benefited from your efforts and what to repeat or improve next year. Did you actually increase your overall giving?
Giving Tuesday Ideas
There are hundreds of Giving Tuesday ideas that your company can implement. Following are just a few suggestions on what you could include in your initiative.
- Ask employees to nominate and select a long-term charity partner.
- Create a Giving Tuesday hashtag and donate each time the hashtag is shared.
- Match the proceeds of a fundraising event planned by employees.
- Coordinate with other local businesses to host a charity auction.
- Host a meet-and-greet for nonprofits with local businesses to extend their network.
- Donate a portion of sales to a nonprofit group.
- Give employees a charitable stipend to give to a nonprofit of their choice
Make It Easy
The best way to manage Giving Tuesday ideas and all your philanthropic initiatives is with a corporate giving platform. Groundswell can help with its frictionless setup and administration. We can have your program up and running in no time with minimal investment of your staff and resources. Contact us today.
If the words "corporate philanthropy" call up images of pink ribbon campaigns, big donations to very visible causes, and big brands improving their image through charitable donations, hang tight.There's a lot more to the picture than big-dollar donations to well-known charities and causes. In today's business world, businesses of all sizes and in all sectors are committed to giving back to their communities through some form of charitable giving — and "charitable giving" takes on many forms.In fact, as of 2021, 85% of U.S. companies have a formal corporate giving program in place, and they donated a combined $20.77 billion to charitable causes.But what is corporate philanthropy, exactly, and what are the best ways for your company to give back to the community? The answers to those questions are evolving as a society — and employees — become more knowledgeable, engaged, and interested in how the companies they deal with affect the world around them.
What Is Corporate Philanthropy?
Corporate philanthropy refers to activities and investments voluntarily made by businesses to make a positive impact on the community around them. That's a very broad umbrella. It covers everything from giving money to donating expertise and encouraging employees to volunteer for community organizations. If your company hosts a food drive for Thanksgiving, buys uniforms for a local soccer team, or offers a matching donations program for charitable giving, it is engaging in corporate philanthropy. Learn more about corporate giving and why it's important in our resource section.
Who Benefits From Corporate Philanthropy?
The benefits of giving back are many, and not just for the organizations on the receiving end of donations. The business also reaps benefits, as do the employees and the general community. In a world where consumers increasingly expect companies to be socially responsible partners in our world, having a formal corporate giving program in place is a vital part of doing business. Charitable donations aren't just a sunk cost of doing business, though. There are clear benefits for the company when they make the choice to give back. Those include:
- Improved reputation of your brand
- Higher employee engagement and satisfaction
- Higher employee retention
- Improved employee recruitment
- Stronger customer loyalty
- Reduced taxes for your business and employees
7 Types of Corporate Philanthropy
The face of corporate philanthropy has been evolving rapidly, especially in light of the last few years of upheaval and technological advances. These are the seven most common forms of corporate giving. Many companies engage in more than one, and many more are rethinking their strategic corporate philanthropy plans as corporate social responsibility takes on more importance to customers and employees. More on that later.
Employee and Board Stipends
Some corporations provide cash stipends to employees or board members, which they can donate to the charities or causes of their choice.
Volunteer Support
Companies may organize, support or give paid time off to employees who volunteer for organizations in their community. The support may be technical — an accounting firm may provide training and expertise to a startup nonprofit, for example — or more general, such as gathering a team to help paint houses or build playgrounds in the neighborhood.
Corporate Sponsorships
The Little League team, a fundraising event by the local food bank, a fashion show put on by a local charity — these are all examples of businesses using corporate sponsorships as part of their overall corporate philanthropy strategy. The corporation makes a donation to charity in return for being prominently mentioned during the event.
Community Grants
A company may offer grants to community organizations that apply for them and meet specific criteria to qualify. Walmart, for example, offers grants ranging from $250 to $5,000 to local community organizations. Often, the grants are given through a foundation established by the company for the purpose of making corporate donations.
In-Kind Donations
In-kind donations are donations of goods or services instead of cash. This type of donation is more common among smaller businesses, such as restaurants donating pizza to a local homeless shelter, or providing coffee and donuts free of charge to a weekly parents' group meeting. Similarly, many companies donate a "portion of x sold" gifts to charity. Stop and Shop, for example, donates a dollar to a local organization for each reusable shopping bag purchased by customers.
Donor-Advised Funds
Donor-advised funds — DAFs — are a variation on making grants to charities and causes through a foundation. In a nutshell, a DAF is like a personal charitable giving account, similar to a health savings account. The donor can make donations at any time and receive an immediate tax advantage. The funds sit in the DAF until the donor decides to disburse them to the charity or cause of their choice. DAFs offer several benefits that make them the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the U.S.
Matching Donations
We saved this one for last because matching donation programs are among the most common corporate giving programs — 9 out of 10 companies have employee matching programs. Traditionally, an employee makes a donation to a charity or cause, and then either they or the nonprofit submits a form to the company, which then makes a second donation to the charity, effectively doubling — or sometimes tripling — the original amount. Despite their popularity, matching gift programs account for only about 12% of cash donations received by nonprofits, and an estimated $4 to $7 billion in matching gift money is never distributed. That's because the entire process can be cumbersome, both for your HR department and for the nonprofit receiving the donation.
A New Kind of Corporate Philanthropy — Philanthropy as a Service
Groundswell believes that it's time to rethink how matching donations programs work. Groundswell makes it easy for companies to launch a charitable giving program that takes advantage of all the benefits of a DAF for them and their employees. The Groundswell platform unlocks the potential of DAFs reimagining corporate philanthropy using the x-as-a-service model. Philanthropy as a service — PHaaS — lets you skip the complicated process of setting up a foundation, hiring accountants and handling all the day-to-day nuts and bolts of managing a charity. Instead, you get a simple, transparent platform that allows your company and your employees to support the causes they believe in without all the friction that accompanies traditional matching donation programs. Your company reaps the benefits of having a defined charitable giving program. Your employees are more engaged, with their privacy protected and their autonomy honored, and the causes they support get their donations without the hassle of chasing down the matching funds. It's a win-win-win solution that empowers everyone in the equation.
Final Thoughts
Corporate philanthropy has evolved over the years, and it's evolving faster than ever thanks to technological advances and changing social attitudes. If you're ready to take the next step in corporate philanthropy, reach out to us to learn more about what PHaaS can bring to your company.
GivingTuesday is a global movement unleashing the power of people and organizations focused on transforming their communities and the world. In 2021, donations to global charities reached an incredible $2.7 billion from GivingTuesday, demonstrating how inspirational the movement has become.Now more than ever employees want their values to align with their company’s values. In February 2022, Groundswell polled over a thousand executive-level leaders and employees working at Fortune 500 companies about how they perceive their corporate philanthropy. Sixty percent of employees said that if their company provided them with a stipend for charitable giving, it would lead to better alignment between the company’s values and its employees, inspiring more altruistic actions.The problem is, today’s offerings for a corporate giving program are outdated and don't fully recognize the unique perspectives and passions of each employee. Not to mention that the administrative burden of running a program can be a nightmare.
How can you modernize your corporate giving program?
Since 74% of Americans contribute to charities each year, employees have a high degree of respect for companies that offer an easy corporate giving program as an employee benefit.If you want your company to be known as a leader of innovation in corporate philanthropy, here are six ways to encourage employees to make a big impact this GivingTuesday in a modern way:
1. Decentralize your corporate philanthropy.
Consider giving a percentage of your corporate grants straight to employees. Every employee is diverse - representing different cultures, backgrounds, religions, and lived experiences. The causes they are passionate about and the charities they want to support should reflect that diversity. Many employer-sponsored giving programs are restricted to a handful of “priority” cause areas or featured nonprofits chosen by company executives - preventing employees from giving to what they feel most connected to. Groundswell’s platform gives your employees the power to choose from over 1.5 million registered charities.
2. Make your giving program equitable and inclusive.
If you have an existing giving program, chances are it is neither equitable nor inclusive. It likely requires your employees to submit details about the donations they want to make to receive a company match. And perhaps employees are only limited to a certain category of charities. Groundswell turns the old model on its head by providing a modern donation experience that centers on your employees and empowers them to choose where they want to donate, with no additional steps to claim their match and no questions asked. They can be fully in control of the way they want to support the causes they care most about.
3. Jump-start the holiday giving spirit with a “gift to give.”
In addition to the existing matching or gifting program you may have, a special gift to kick off an end-of-year giving campaign can motivate and inspire employees to be equally generous. With Groundswell’s platform, you can pre-load funds into an employee’s giving account and they can choose where to donate on their own time.
4. Remove the red tape and year-end receipt gathering.
The sheer administrative burden of many corporate giving programs means that billions of dollars are left unclaimed. The simplicity of Groundswell is that employees do not have to send any follow-up paperwork to their employer after they click that “donate” button. And program administrators don’t have the burden of vetting charities or submitting matching donations. It’s a streamlined process - free of receipts or other paperwork - that gives your employees the confidence that they can have an impact on the causes they care most about at the end of the year.
5. Spark shared social responsibility.
Since your employee base is your most valuable resource, empowering your team to donate through Groundswell can inspire a shared sense of social responsibility. Perhaps you have Veterans who can help shine a light on supporting mental health nonprofits that serve the veteran community; or, perhaps an employee from the Gulf Coast can share details of what it’s like to be impacted by a hurricane.
6. Provide inspiration to your employees on where they can give.
While many employees may know where they want to donate, it also helps to give them some additional inspiration - or introduce them to nonprofits they might not be aware of. Groundswell’s impact team works to research and vet amazing nonprofits that are working tirelessly across a diverse range of cause areas - found in the Spotlight area of the Groundswell app dashboard. If you want to see more ideas, check out our GivingTuesday toolkit that features additional inspiration on how to engage your employees in an end-of-year giving campaign.
Interested in modernizing your company's giving program this year?
Groundswell can help you get a corporate giving program up and running in less than two weeks. Through Groundswell’s platform, you can pre-load funds from your company into a Personal Giving Account for employees before GivingTuesday.
Why Corporate Volunteering Programs Are Often Ineffective
The concept of corporate volunteering is one of the fair-haired darlings of the corporate social responsibility conversation. Corporations who are looking to give back to the community in a meaningful way often turn to corporate volunteer programs as an easy win-win that provides benefits for everyone involved.The proponents of corporate volunteerism tout it as an effective way to communicate company values, cement teams and boost employee engagement and loyalty, while improving relations with local organizations and community, all wrapped up in a neat "socially responsible" bow. While those benefits are real, companies that set out to build corporate volunteer programs often overlook the other side of these widely used programs.If you're seriously considering a volunteer program for your business, it's important to weigh the benefits against the work you need to do to create and manage an effective, engaging program that works for your company, your employees and the causes you support.
What Goes Into a Successful Corporate Volunteer Program?
Running a successful, effective volunteer program within your company is a lot of work, and the work starts well in advance of the launch.Volunteer Hub, which provides software for managing an employee volunteer program (EVP), lists eight steps to launching a successful EVP, each of them time consuming but essential to success.A couple of key steps highlight some of the most common pitfalls these companies encounter.
Assess Community Needs and Employee Interest
Far too often, companies start an EVP because someone in the company leadership saw a cool idea and thought it would be a good fit for their company. They launch into it without taking the time to research the community needs or consulting employees for ideas and interest. The end result can be a program with low employee engagement that is a headache for the causes they hope to promote and support.
Partner with the Right Organizations
If part of your incentive in creating an EVP is to raise your profile in the community, it's important to choose organizations that align with your business's objectives and values. Ideally, those will be causes or charities that resonate with your employees, but that might not be the case for all of them. Programs that focus narrowly on one or two organizations risk shutting out some employees who may have other priorities for their volunteer time.
Assess and Quantify Impact
Record-keeping and assessment are an essential part of managing a successful, ongoing EVP. Collecting and managing the info — especially if your EVP includes paid time off or volunteer stipends — is an additional, time-consuming burden on your HR department.
Publicize Your Program
Marketing your EVP has two main targets: your employees and the community. In both cases, it requires time, effort and expense on the part of your company and those who are managing it.
The Pitfalls of Corporate Volunteer Programs
While the benefits of employee volunteer programs are widely known, there's not as much conversation about the problems that often arise in running and managing them. Beyond the time and expense involved in managing an EVP, companies may run into one or more of these issues that diminish the impact it might have.
What Employees Say
Recent research into employee motivations and lived experience of employee volunteer programs highlighted some of the challenges and negative outcomes they experienced. Some of the issues included:
- The pressure to volunteer makes some employees feel that they are being judged or evaluated for their commitment to the company, especially if they aren't connected to the volunteer work.
- Many employees felt that they didn't have enough time to do volunteer work and still keep up with the demands of their job.
- Volunteer programs may inadvertently shut some employees out of participation. For example, volunteer activities that involve physical activity, such as building houses or fundraising walks, may be difficult for employees with mobility problems. A single parent may find it difficult to participate in activities that happen outside working hours because they don't have child care.
- When volunteer programs limit opportunities to one or two events, some employees may find nothing that interests them.
- Many employees want more control over their volunteer opportunities, from choosing causes to support to planning activities for the team.
What Nonprofits Say
Volunteer management is a specialized skill in the nonprofit world, and many larger organizations that depend on volunteers for their operations have staff dedicated specifically to that task. That's not always the case.In fact, some corporate volunteer programs can make extra work for a nonprofit without a tangible gain. These are some of the issues highlighted by nonprofits who accept corporate volunteers.
- A mismatch between employee skills and nonprofit needs.
- Employee volunteers who don't understand the aims and philosophy of the nonprofit and/or its clients.
- The need to train and supervise volunteers.
- A lopsided power dynamic between the company and the nonprofit, especially if volunteerism is connected to a monetary donation.
In short, an EVP that isn't planned and coordinated with a nonprofit partner, and focused on filling their needs rather than those of the corporation, can be a drain on the nonprofit's resources.
Practical Alternatives to Corporate Volunteer Programs
The challenges described in the previous section often result when programs are conceived, planned and executed from the top down, without considering the other stakeholders — the employees and the nonprofits — they're intended to benefit. Many of these can be alleviated by following specific best practices, including:
- Involve employees in the planning from the start.
- Engage in meaningful assessment with potential nonprofit partners to assess their needs and capacity.
- Tailor volunteer activities to the needs of the nonprofit and your employees.
- Provide wider choices in corporate volunteer program activities.
- Measure the impact of your program periodically and make adjustments where needed.
What if, after doing the research and evaluating your capacity, you realize that typical corporate volunteer programs aren't the best fit for your company and your employees? There are some practical alternatives to consider, alternatives that give your employees more choice and autonomy while still allowing your company to support them and the causes most important to them.
Give Them More Money To Donate
The one thing that every nonprofit always needs is more money. While volunteering feels good, nonprofits can often make better use of cash donations that they can apply to their own needs.
Expand Your Definition of Volunteering
If you offer paid time off for volunteering, expand your definition to include the informal volunteering that many people do as a matter of course. Paying employees for the time they spend supporting the causes most important to them sends a powerful message that your company values them.
Empower Employees To Donate in the Ways That Are Most Meaningful to Them
Employee giving programs — including employee volunteer programs — are most effective when they empower employees to support the causes and charities that are most important to them. By removing barriers to giving and volunteering, your company can provide the opportunity and means for your employees — and your business — to make a difference in the world.
The Groundswell Difference
Groundswell makes it easy to get an employee giving program up and running with a minimum of effort on your part. It's designed to empower employees to support the causes and charities that are most important to them, while respecting and supporting each of their diverse perspectives. You choose how and when your company disburses funds into your employee giving accounts — such as paid time for volunteering — and they choose when and how they donate those funds.To learn more about how Groundswell can help power your corporate giving strategy and empower your employees to make an impact, contact us and ask about the benefits of an equitable, inclusive employee giving program.
Recently, leaders have stopped organizing employee volunteer events and shifted towards gifting and matching programs for good reasons.That's because company leaders have discovered that they're not the only ones that think volunteering isn't the best place for highly-skilled employees to spend their limited time. In fact, two-thirds of nonprofit leaders agree that donations are often better than organizing and overseeing volunteer events.A recent poll conducted by Groundswell of 500 nonprofit leaders indicated 68% preferred receiving monetary contributions over facilitating a corporate volunteer event.If you've considered putting together a volunteer event for your employees or setting up a corporate gifting and matching program, you're in the right place.This article helps you decide what programs are best for you and your organization, what benefits and drawbacks come with organizing volunteer events, and why companies are moving away from sending their employees out and moving towards offering employees a gifting and donation match program that sends money directly to nonprofits.
Volunteers or Donations?
Volunteering is at the heart of many charity and nonprofit organizations. Without people willing to volunteer their time to support the causes they care about, some nonprofits would fall short of their goals.However, while the act of volunteering is noble and well intentioned, not all volunteers and volunteering activities are created equal. Most organizations that rely on volunteers to deliver services strive for volunteers who are willing to show up consistently, complete training, and execute tasks according to standards.For example, the Boys and Girls Club’s lifeblood is community members who sign up to mentor at-risk youth. Mentors who consistently meet with, coach, and encourage their mentees can have a profound impact on that child’s life. Conversely, a volunteer that quits after two meetings can devastate a child’s self-esteem.Similarly, Feeding America - the largest network of foodbanks in the U.S. - relies substantially on volunteers to help operate its food warehouses. But, just like any Amazon fulfillment center, maintaining an efficient operation requires effective human capital management, including volunteer scheduling and training on tasks like storing, packing and shipping different types of food items. Having dedicated volunteers that commit to consistent work shifts allows FA operations leaders to plan effectively.There are countless examples of how committed volunteers can make a difference, but anyone considering a day of volunteering should ask themselves important questions about what the nonprofit they’re aiming to support needs most: time or money?
The Truth About Why Companies Love Corporate Philanthropy
Corporations love sending employees to help nonprofits because they see it as a win-win-win: nonprofits get support, employees get engaged, and the company burnishes its reputation..It’s clear that an army of employees adorned in color-coordinated shirts emblazoned with the company’s logo, deployed out into the community with rakes or paintbrushes, makes for a great photo op. The activity sends a message to the community that the company cares, and that’s a good thing as corporate stakeholders increasingly demand that company’s focus on social impact.There’s also no doubt that the activity engages employees. It often gets them out of the office and mingling with one another in a low-stress, lighthearted way. Many will return to the office grateful that their employer prioritized making a difference.But what about the nonprofit? Have they received the resources they need most to execute their mission best?
The Pros and Cons of Hosting Volunteer Events
Corporate volunteer events are events organized by nonprofit organizations at the request of a company, often through a corporate social responsibility (CSR) team.These events generally last a few hours, typically around the same time as an employee all-hands conference or retreat. They can be hosted at the company’s headquarters or at the nonprofit’s location. Often, employee volunteers are untrained, and despite wanting to make a difference, likely have no direct tie to or passion for the nonprofit’s mission; meaning most will conclude the event with no intention of volunteering with the organization again.If coordinated with the nonprofit effectively and resourced appropriately, corporate volunteer events can create value.
Here are the pros and cons of corporate volunteers.
Benefits of volunteering:
- Positive employee experience - employees that volunteer often walk away with a good experience and positive outlook on aiding others.
- More hands on the project - some projects benefit from more people on a project, like with community clean-ups.
- Positive company image - Employees that volunteer contribute to the philanthropic values of a company and improve its public image.
Drawbacks of volunteering:
- Additional work for the nonprofits - Organizing an event, training new volunteers, and managing an unfamiliar person can take a lot of effort and resources away that could have otherwise been used on supporting the organization's cause.
- Reduced efficiency - The best nonprofits build efficient systems to do their work. Oftentimes, corporate volunteer events operate outside these systems. This can happen geographically, by dictating the location be at the corporate office, or otherwise by having to accommodate volunteers unfamiliar with the established system or process.
- Volunteering isn’t always equitable and inclusive - Not every employee can participate in a volunteer activity. For example, if you’re cleaning up a beach employees with mobility issues could be left out.
- Smaller return on investment - Volunteer events take a lot of work to plan, coordinate and execute, and sometimes - especially absent an additional monetary contribution from the company - the effort doesn’t yield sufficient impact.
- Unpredictable effort and labor - The skills of volunteers can range from amateur to expert, which can make it tough for organization leaders to get high-level contributions.
- No time -- Businesses are busy. Not all employees, executives, investors, and board members have the time to commit to volunteering, making it easier to donate money instead of time.
While volunteering can have a handful of benefits, it can sometimes come with a great deal of unnecessary administrative duties that take valuable resources away from an organization's limited resources.
Four Valuable Insights From Nonprofit Employees
Along with uncovering the reality about corporate volunteer programs, our poll revealed important insights into the truth about how nonprofits leaders felt about shifting trends in corporate philanthropy.According to our research, 79.4% agreed that corporate volunteer events are often more focused on employee experience than generating desirable outcomes for the organization's causes.Notably, 56.2% experienced a corporate volunteer event that didn't lead to efficient outcomes for the organization's cause.Perhaps in light of that, 72.2% believe corporations should make monetary contributions to offset the effort required to facilitate corporate volunteer events.Finally, a remarkable 42.2% believe planning volunteer opportunities for companies is actually a distraction to their core mission.
Here's Why Donating Is Better Than Volunteers.
Just like any business, having working capital is crucial for charities to deliver consistent outcomes.For nonprofit organizations, donations help fuel campaign initiatives, purchase supplies, pay for employee salaries, cover the cost of insurance and support efforts made by the entity. Even volunteer events cost money! Who do you think covers the cost of those bottles of water, ham sandwiches, and cans of paint?In other words, donations support nearly every facet of an organization, from supporting their infrastructure to facilitating initiatives and backing campaigns.In nearly all cases, donations are much more flexible than volunteering. Donations can be used for anything related to the organization's operation while volunteering is limited to labor-specific tasks. Volunteering is also limited by the volunteer's level of expertise, whereas donations can be used to hire experts to accomplish the same task using less effort and resources.
Have You Launched Your Company Gifting and Matching Program?
Since donations generally contribute directly to the organization's central mission while providing them with ultimate discretion in how to deliver impact, corporate leaders and their employees are realizing their contributions can go a lot further when donating money instead of time.If you’re curious to learn more about how corporate gifting and matching programs work, you’ll find more resources on our blog.
Dealing with layoffs and the resulting fallout after a company downsizes can be one of the most difficult tasks to face for any manager or human resource professional. It's no secret that layoffs can take a major hit on company morale, not just for the workers who are being laid off, but for those who remain. Finding ways of keeping morale high in a workplace that has just downsized can be tricky, but it's vital. Taking steps to reassure your remaining workers that they are valued and their jobs are secure can go a long way toward cementing company loyalty and making your business a place where employees want to work.
Behind the Wave of Smartsizing
The headline on the Business Insider article is stark: "A Wave of Layoffs Is Sweeping the U.S." The article goes on to detail dozens of businesses that have downsized since the beginning of 2022, including many that made headlines: Netflix, Gap, Carvana, Ford Motor Company, Peloton and Wayfair among them. These layoffs follow two years of corporate and labor downsizing during COVID-19 when nearly 15% of U.S. adults reported that they were laid off because of the pandemic. While many of those were rehired — or found other jobs when businesses reopened — other businesses shed workers they'd hired to deal with a temporary boost in work during the shutdowns. To compound things even further, the Federal Reserve's plan to fight inflation has many experts fearing that even more layoffs are coming. The truth is, though, that layoffs are an unfortunate fact of life in the modern workplace. Even without the extraordinary pressures of the last few years, businesses often choose to reduce their workforce for strategic reasons — to cut costs in the face of bankruptcy, because they've adopted new technology that requires fewer workers, or because a project has ended. When layoffs happen, the fallout can negatively affect everyone involved — and your business suffers. Taking an open, transparent approach to the situation is one of the most effective ways of managing employee morale before, during and after the workforce reduction. These tips can help you plan how to boost employee morale during these difficult times.
Before Layoffs — Make a Plan and Communicate It
There are a few throughlines in managing employee morale during layoffs — careful planning, open communication, transparency and respect for your employees. This starts from the moment your company decides to restructure.
Have a Plan and a Process
Creating a layoff process — preferably before you ever have to use it — is helpful for many reasons, not the least of which is making sure that your company is in regulatory compliance. More importantly, when there's a process, it informs everyone in the chain of command, from the front office to line managers, of their role and responsibilities.
Communicate Openly, Effectively and Respectfully
Carefully consider how you'll announce the layoffs — who will tell employees, how they'll deliver the news and what they'll say. In general, the news should come from a direct supervisor and should be delivered in person. The announcement should include the reasons for the downsizing, the steps the company has taken and what employees can expect to happen over the next several days. The person delivering it should express compassion and understanding, and be prepared to answer questions and manage employee reactions. The manager should also explain any assistance and benefits the company will provide for the workers whose jobs will be eliminated, and make a promise to keep the lines of communication open throughout the transition to a smaller workforce. Above all else, be honest and authentic in all of your communications. Your employees deserve your honesty.
Speak With Individual Employees Privately
Schedule private interviews with employees to discuss particulars about their situations. Give them time and space to express their emotions, and listen compassionately. Have any paperwork and informational handouts prepared in advance, and go through them together. Provide them with any information they need to access accrued benefits, as well as any processes or paperwork they need to transfer insurance policies, employee giving accounts and other benefits to themselves.
During Layoffs — Be Transparent and Compassionate
The days and weeks immediately after an announced downsizing can be among the most difficult to manage. You can make it easier when you follow a few simple guidelines.
Get It Done Quickly
If possible, inform all employees that are part of the downsizing immediately. The longer it takes for everyone to know their status, the more time your employees will spend stressing and worrying if their job is on the line.
Communicate New Directions Clearly and Promptly
Your remaining employees — known colloquially as survivors — know that things are going to be changing. Be open and honest about the plan going forward, and listen to any feedback they offer. The better they understand their evolving role — and the company's evolving plan — the more comfortable it will be for everyone.
Be Available
As employees settle into their new workplace environment, make yourself available as much as possible. Don't just wait for them to come to you. Go out of your way to check in with people. Reassure them, solicit their feedback on changes and step in to take up the slack as people adjust.
After Layoffs — Reassure, Reconfigure and Stabilize
As the workplace stabilizes, recognize that employees may still be dealing with the aftereffects. Downsizing survivors often have complicated feelings, ranging from continuing anxiety to survivor's guilt. The steps you take now are not just a short-term strategy — think of them as a blueprint for employee engagement going forward.
Reconfigure and Regroup
Continue to be available to answer questions and help employees sort through their new responsibilities and roles. Listen to concerns openly and with compassion, and be willing to take feedback and criticism without taking it personally.
Rebuild Trust and Goodwill
This is the time to turn back to everything you know about building a healthy workplace culture and put it into practice. Keep in mind that this is a key "moment that matters," and the actions you take now will resonate with employees for as long as they stay with you. For example:
- You can offset the reality of giving employees more responsibility by shifting to more flexible schedules that take their lives into account
- Give employees more voice in decisions that affect them most
- Review your current benefits package with your employees and find ways to make it more meaningful to them
The Bottom Line
Restructuring and downsizing are never fun, but this can be an opportunity to make other positive changes in your company. Setting up a meaningful employee giving program is one of those positive changes. Groundswell can help you get a corporate giving program up and running faster than any other. Our platform makes the entire giving process more efficient by establishing a personal giving fund for each employee while reducing the amount of tracking and work for your HR department. Best of all, it's designed to respect and support all of your employees' diverse perspectives and shows them that you're truly committed to building a respectful, inclusive, diverse workplace for everyone.
Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. The concepts aren’t new but they’re more important than ever. Most companies have some sort of DEI initiative. But diversity, equity and inclusion in today’s workplace go beyond the concept of equality. Whether you’re looking to optimize the framework you already have or are starting from the beginning, it’s good to understand DEI in greater detail. As the world becomes increasingly diverse, DEI is a business imperative.
The Components of DEI
So, if DEI is not equality, what is it? It’s perhaps best to address that question by first understanding each of the components of DEI and how they look in action.
What Is Diversity?
Workplace diversity starts with hiring people from different backgrounds and life experiences. Although early definitions centered around race and gender, diversity also applies to ethnicity, age, sexuality, language, background, education, personality traits and more. And it’s not just about bringing in diverse people, it’s also about ensuring that these valuable employees can participate and contribute in ways that benefit the individual, the company and society at large.
What Is Equity?
Equity is a term frequently conflated with equality. The terms are similar but when companies pursue equality over equity the outcomes will be strikingly different. Equality is about treating everyone the same regardless of what they need to succeed and despite the systemic inequities that have existed for generations. Equity, on the other hand, recognizes that historically unequal access is inherent in economic, educational and social structures. So what’s required is the application of different methods so that everyone has an opportunity to succeed. That’s how equity differs.
What Is Inclusion?
When the workplace is inclusive, employees feel valued and accepted as part of the larger organization. It happens without them having to become something they are not. Inclusive companies celebrate and encourage diverse ideas and approaches, giving everyone the same opportunities for advancement.
What Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Looks Like
As useful as it is to understand what DEI is, it’s equally important to understand what DEI is not. Superficial treatments of DEI initiatives predictably lead to less-than-stellar outcomes. Here are a few examples.This is DEI:
- A visually impaired worker is given a large, high-quality monitor and other low-vision accommodations.
This is not:
- The weekly staff meeting is always held in the late afternoon even though the single parent who must attend has a childcare issue.
This is DEI:
- Resume screening during the hiring process is blind, eliminating names and addresses.
This is not:
- Job candidate information on the resume helps decision makers identify candidates by gender, race, ethnicity or neighborhood.
This is DEI:
- The company conducts a regular pay gap analysis to ensure gender pay e quality.
This is not:
- Salaries are never included in job postings despite suspected discrepancies between men and women.
This is DEI:
- Religious and cultural holidays are acknowledged and employees are automatically given the time off to observe these occasions.
This is not:
- The company holds a yearly Christmas party and other holidays, like Rosh Hashana, pass by without mention.
It’s not unusual for management to feel overwhelmed by the number of small details that impact their DEI efforts. It can seem impossible to do everything. It’s important to remember, however, that small gestures go a long way toward ensuring that DEI is ingrained in the culture and is a responsibility assumed by all, not just a yearly check-box initiative. Once DEI becomes business as usual, it will be as natural as taking a breath. When that happens, you’ll reap the benefits that accrue to a truly diverse organization.
How To Set Up DEI Strategy That Actually Works
Diversity, equity and inclusion isn’t new, but it’s more important now than ever before. That’s because the world is changing and so is the marketplace. Companies need diversity to innovate and grow to meet evolving needs. Diversity is important in the upper ranks, as well. In fact, when it comes to gender, companies in the top quartile of diversity are 25% more likely to experience above-average profitability than those in the bottom quartile. Companies that currently have a DEI initiative can optimize it to ensure that it accomplishes their objectives. Those with no DEI framework can ensure that they build in certain components from the beginning. Here’s how to set up a strategy that works:
Start From the Top
A committed DEI program must have committed leaders. You don’t just need a sponsor; you need a top-down commitment to make change a priority. Your DEI effort goes beyond lip service. It changes the way employees work together. Tie DEI goals into your company objectives and values. That means that in addition to organizational data and metrics that really matter, you’ll need someone to hold managers accountable for meeting the objectives of the program.
Hire Good Resources
Ensure that you put the right people in place. You may have the people internally to lead the effort but it never hurts to bring in outside consultants to facilitate the setup. DEI conversations can be tricky and the last thing you want is a ham-fisted approach that puts the people you need most on the defensive. DEI is going to be everyone’s job.
Find Mechanisms to Expand the Dialogue
Every good DEI initiative begins with a conversation. You’ll need to keep the conversation uplifting and productive. Affinity groups can help. They can give a voice to those who are underrepresented, provide input into critical decision-making processes, and help companies decide how and when to weigh in on important social issues.
Recognize the Culture Change
DEI is a cultural change in most companies. You’ll need to examine your systems and policies, your language and even your values. Diversity doesn’t just happen. Companies that are diverse and inclusive get there through a series of deliberate and proactive decisions. There are reasons why there may not be qualified people from every community and identity in your workplace and why, when they do come, the outcomes may not be as expected. Culture change will require aligned systems to support the beliefs and behaviors you want to instill.
Find a Common Cause
Companies that truly believe in diversity reflect those values by showing up in the communities they serve. One of the best ways to participate in the many underserved world communities is through philanthropic activities. Such efforts are good for humanity, good for the planet and a great way to engage employees. It can be a challenge to find something the company can do together to embrace diversity, equity and inclusion values. Groundswell is one way to make giving an employee benefit as well as to embrace diversity as a corporate value.Groundswell can get your corporate giving program up and running effortlessly. No more tracking of donation receipts or vetting nonprofits. Each employee is set up with a personal giving account established just for them. It works just similar to a 401(k), only it's for charitable giving. Now your company can easily support diverse perspectives with a giving program that is equitable and inclusive.
Diversity Is Increasing. Are You Ready?
In the years to come, the people you hire will be increasingly diverse, coming from different backgrounds and life experiences. This diverse perspective will help shape both your culture and your destiny. Your company will need to invest time and energy to yield the benefits promised. In the ever-changing business landscape, companies must be able to adapt and evolve. The concepts of diversity and inclusion are not new, but are becoming more important than ever before. With a diverse group of employees, companies can gain new perspectives, learn from one another and become stronger as a result. Start today with Groundswell.
Promoting Animal Welfare: A Compassionate Responsibility
In an interconnected world where compassion and empathy transcend boundaries, the issue of animal welfare has emerged as a crucial aspect of our collective consciousness.
The treatment and care of animals, whether they are pets, wildlife, or livestock, reflect our society's moral and ethical values. As stewards of this planet, it is our responsibility to advocate for the well-being of our fellow creatures, recognizing their inherent rights and ensuring their protection from unnecessary suffering.
Supporting animal welfare encompasses a range of efforts, from advocating for legislative reforms and promoting responsible pet ownership to encouraging sustainable farming practices and preserving natural habitats. While the journey towards comprehensive animal welfare remains ongoing, it is imperative that we acknowledge the progress made thus far, as well as the challenges that lie ahead.
With every voice raised and every step taken to support animal welfare, we move closer to building a more humane and just world. Together, let us embark on this enlightening journey to explore the myriad ways we can make a difference and champion the rights of our fellow sentient beings.
These nonprofits are on the forefront of animal welfare and fighting for equality and rights for animals.
The Humane League
The Humane League is an international animal advocacy organization that works to end the suffering of animals raised for food. Founded in 2005, The Humane League aims to create a more compassionate world by promoting ethical choices and advocating for systemic change.
The organization focuses primarily on the treatment of farmed animals, which constitute the majority of animals used for food production. They work to raise awareness about the inherent cruelty and environmental impact of factory farming practices, while also promoting the benefits of a plant-based diet.
Humane League’s Multi-faceted Approach to Achieve Its Goals
- Corporate Campaigns: The organization engages in corporate outreach and advocacy, targeting major food companies and urging them to adopt more humane policies and practices. By pressuring corporations to improve animal welfare standards, The Humane League aims to create significant changes in the industry.
- Public Outreach and Education: The Humane League conducts public outreach campaigns to raise awareness about the realities of factory farming and the benefits of choosing plant-based alternatives. They aim to inspire individuals to make more compassionate choices in their everyday lives and provide them with the resources and support to do so.
- Lobbying and Legislative Advocacy: The Humane League works to influence legislation and public policy related to animal welfare. They engage in lobbying efforts to push for stronger legal protections for farmed animals and to ban or restrict inhumane practices.
- Open Wing Alliance: The Humane League is a founding member of the Open Wing Alliance, a coalition of global animal advocacy organizations focused on ending the abuse of hens used in egg production. They collaborate with other groups to drive corporate commitments to eliminate cage confinement for hens.
Mercy for Animals
Mercy for Animals is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices. Founded in 1999, Mercy for Animals (MFA) works towards creating a more compassionate and sustainable food system.
The organization's mission is to expose and combat the systemic abuse of animals raised for food, primarily focusing on farmed animals such as chickens, cows, pigs, and fish. MFA believes that all animals, regardless of their species, deserve to be treated with respect and compassion.
MFA employs a variety of strategies to achieve its goals
- Undercover Investigations: MFA conducts undercover investigations to expose the realities of factory farming and the inherent cruelty inflicted upon farmed animals. Through these investigations, they gather evidence of animal abuse and neglect, and then use that evidence to raise public awareness, push for legal reforms, and encourage corporations to adopt more humane practices.
- Corporate Outreach: MFA engages in corporate outreach campaigns to persuade major food companies and retailers to adopt stronger animal welfare policies. They work with companies to implement meaningful changes in their supply chains, such as eliminating cruel confinement systems, improving living conditions for animals, and transitioning to plant-based alternatives.
- Public Advocacy: Mercy for Animals actively advocates for legislation and public policies that protect farmed animals and promote animal welfare. They work with lawmakers and other advocacy organizations to introduce and support bills that seek to ban cruel farming practices, increase transparency in the industry, and improve animal welfare standards.
- Public Education and Outreach: MFA conducts public education campaigns to raise awareness about the treatment of farmed animals and the benefits of choosing plant-based alternatives. They provide resources, online materials, and tools to help individuals transition to a more compassionate diet and lifestyle.
Faunalytics
Faunalytics is a nonprofit organization that provides animal advocates with access to research and analysis of various animal issues. Founded in 2000, Faunalytics is headquartered in Olympia, Washington. The organization's research director is Jo Anderson.
Faunalytics' mission is to "empower animal advocates with access to research, analysis, strategies, and messages that maximize their effectiveness to reduce animal suffering." The organization does this by conducting original research, maintaining an online research library, and directly supporting advocates and organizations in their work to save lives.
Faunalytics' research covers a wide range of animal issues, including animal agriculture, animal testing, wildlife conservation, and animal cruelty. The organization's research is used by animal advocates around the world to inform their campaigns and strategies.
Ways that Faunalytics Helps Animal Advocates
- Conducts original research on animal issues
- Maintains an online research library
- Directly supports advocates and organizations in their work to save lives
- Offers a variety of resources to animal advocates, including trainings, webinars, and online courses
- Publishes a quarterly newsletter and an annual report on the state of the animal advocacy movement
Animal Haven
Animal Haven is an animal rescue organization based in New York City, United States. Founded in 1967, Animal Haven focuses on finding permanent homes for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals, particularly cats and dogs.
The organization operates an animal shelter and adoption center where animals in need are provided with temporary care, medical treatment, and socialization. Animal Haven aims to give each animal the opportunity to thrive and find a loving and responsible forever home.
Key Aspects of Animal Haven's Work
- Rescue and Shelter: Animal Haven rescues animals from various situations, including shelters, overcrowded facilities, and emergency situations. Once rescued, the animals receive necessary veterinary care, vaccinations, and are spayed or neutered. They are then placed in a safe and comfortable shelter environment.
- Adoption Services: Animal Haven facilitates the adoption process by matching prospective adopters with suitable animals. They have an adoption center where potential adopters can meet and interact with the animals. Animal Haven's staff works to ensure that each adoption is a successful and lifelong match.
- Community Engagement: Animal Haven actively engages with the community to promote responsible pet ownership, humane education, and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. They offer resources, workshops, and events to educate the public about animal welfare issues and how they can make a positive impact.
- Rehabilitation and Behavior Support: Animal Haven provides behavioral assessments and rehabilitation programs for animals with special needs or behavioral challenges. This helps increase their chances of finding suitable homes and ensures that adopters receive the necessary support and guidance.
- Volunteer and Foster Programs: Animal Haven offers volunteer and foster programs, allowing individuals to contribute directly to the care and well-being of the animals. Volunteers assist with tasks such as socializing animals, walking dogs, and helping with administrative duties. Foster families provide temporary homes for animals awaiting adoption, helping them adjust to home life and providing valuable insights into their personalities.
Spokane Humane Society
The Spokane Humane Society is a nonprofit organization located in Spokane, Washington, dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals and providing them with shelter, care, and advocacy.
Key aspects of Spokane Humane Society’s work
- Animal Shelter: The Spokane Humane Society operates a shelter facility that provides a safe haven for homeless and neglected animals. They strive to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals, offering them a second chance at finding loving and permanent homes.
- Adoption Programs: The organization actively promotes animal adoptions, encouraging the community to choose adoption as the first option when considering adding a new pet to their family. They facilitate the adoption process by matching individuals and families with suitable companion animals.
- Spay/Neuter Services: The Spokane Humane Society recognizes the importance of controlling the pet population to reduce the number of homeless animals. They offer low-cost spay/neuter services to pet owners, helping to prevent the birth of unwanted litters and promoting responsible pet ownership.
- Animal Medical Care: The organization provides veterinary care to animals in need, including vaccinations, routine check-ups, and necessary medical treatments. They also have a medical team that ensures the well-being and health of the animals in their care.
- Humane Education: The Spokane Humane Society is committed to raising awareness and promoting compassion for animals through education. They offer programs and resources that teach children and adults about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare issues, and the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.
- Community Outreach: The organization actively engages with the community through various outreach programs. They organize adoption events, fundraising activities, and awareness campaigns to involve the public in their mission. They also collaborate with other local organizations and agencies to address broader animal welfare issues.
ASPCA
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is one of the oldest and largest animal welfare organizations in the United States. It was founded in 1866 by Henry Bergh with the mission of preventing cruelty to animals throughout the country.
The ASPCA's work encompasses a wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at protecting animals, preventing animal cruelty, and promoting animal welfare.
Key Aspects of the ASPCA's Work
- Animal Rescue: The ASPCA operates a dedicated Animal Hospital in New York City and a Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic that provides medical care and treatment for animals in need. They also have a team of professionals that respond to animal cruelty cases and provide rescue and rehabilitation services for animals affected by cruelty, neglect, or natural disasters.
- Adoption and Placement: The ASPCA promotes the adoption of homeless animals and works to find loving and permanent homes for animals in their care. They have an adoption center where potential adopters can meet and interact with available animals. The ASPCA also provides resources and guidance to help individuals find the right pet for their lifestyle and support the successful integration of the animal into their home.
- Advocacy and Legislation: The ASPCA is actively involved in advocating for stronger laws and regulations to protect animals from cruelty and improve their welfare. They work with lawmakers, government agencies, and other animal welfare organizations to promote animal-friendly legislation and ensure the enforcement of existing laws.
- Humane Education: The ASPCA believes in the power of education to prevent cruelty and foster compassion towards animals. They develop and provide educational resources and programs to schools, communities, and individuals, promoting responsible pet ownership, animal welfare awareness, and empathy towards animals.
- Community Outreach: The ASPCA engages in various community outreach programs to provide assistance and resources to pet owners in need. This includes low-cost or free spay/neuter services, vaccination clinics, and temporary emergency sheltering for pets during times of crisis.
- Anti-Cruelty Initiatives: The ASPCA works to combat animal cruelty through investigations, legal actions, and public awareness campaigns. They collaborate with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute individuals involved in animal cruelty cases, raise public awareness about animal abuse, and encourage the reporting of cruelty incidents.
PAWS
PAWS, which stands for the Progressive Animal Welfare Society, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare and providing support for homeless and abused animals. Founded in 1967, PAWS is based in Lynnwood, Washington, and operates in the Puget Sound region of Washington State.
Key Aspects of PAWS' Work
- Animal Shelter and Adoption Services: PAWS operates an animal shelter where they provide temporary care and shelter for homeless cats, dogs, and other companion animals. They work to find permanent, loving homes for these animals through their adoption programs. PAWS also provides post-adoption support and resources to adopters to ensure the successful integration of animals into their new homes.
- Wildlife Rehabilitation: PAWS operates a wildlife rehabilitation center that cares for injured, orphaned, and sick wild animals. Trained staff and volunteers provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and release services for various wildlife species. The goal is to give these animals the best chance of survival and eventual return to their natural habitats.
- Humane Education: PAWS is committed to raising awareness and promoting compassionate treatment of animals through education programs. They offer workshops, school programs, and community outreach initiatives that focus on responsible pet ownership, wildlife conservation, and animal welfare issues.
- Spay/Neuter and Vaccination Services: PAWS provides low-cost spay/neuter services to help control pet overpopulation and reduce the number of homeless animals. They also offer affordable vaccination clinics to ensure that pets receive necessary vaccinations for their health and well-being.
- Advocacy and Outreach: PAWS actively advocates for policies and laws that promote animal welfare and protect animals from cruelty and neglect. They engage in community outreach, collaborate with other organizations, and work with lawmakers to improve animal protection laws and regulations.
- Volunteer and Foster Programs: PAWS relies on the support of volunteers and foster families to help care for animals in their shelters and provide temporary homes for animals awaiting adoption. Volunteers assist with animal care, socialization, and various administrative tasks, while foster families offer a nurturing environment for animals until they find permanent homes.
Best Friends Animal Society
Best Friends Animal Society is a prominent national animal welfare organization based in the United States. It was founded in 1984 with the goal of ending the killing of homeless pets and building a society in which all animals are treated with compassion and find loving homes.
Key Aspects of Best Friends Animal Society's Work
- Animal Rescue and Shelters: Best Friends operates animal rescue centers and shelters across the country, providing care and support for homeless animals. They work to find loving homes for animals in their care and provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and behavioral support to ensure the animals are ready for adoption.
- No-Kill Initiatives: Best Friends has been at the forefront of the no-kill movement, advocating for and implementing strategies to save the lives of animals. They collaborate with local shelters, rescue groups, and communities to establish no-kill programs and initiatives, aiming to achieve a 90% or higher save rate for all animals.
- Advocacy and Policy Work: Best Friends actively engages in advocacy and policy initiatives to promote animal welfare. They work with lawmakers and stakeholders to support legislation that improves animal protection laws, prevents animal cruelty, and promotes responsible pet ownership. They also work to end breed-discriminatory legislation and promote community-based solutions to animal welfare challenges.
- Community Programs: Best Friends believes in the power of community engagement and education. They offer various community programs to help pet owners, such as low-cost spay/neuter services, vaccination clinics, and pet food banks. They also provide resources, educational materials, and workshops to promote responsible pet ownership and address common challenges faced by pet owners.
- National Initiatives: Best Friends leads national initiatives to address specific animal welfare issues. For example, they have launched initiatives focused on ending the killing of cats in shelters, promoting pit bull terrier advocacy and awareness, and advocating for the welfare of animals in puppy mills and pet stores.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Best Friends collaborates with a wide range of animal welfare organizations, rescue groups, shelters, and communities. They work together to share best practices, provide support, and drive collective impact in saving animal lives and improving animal welfare nationwide.
Wild Animal Initiative
Wild Animal Initiative (previously known as Wild-Animal Suffering Research) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of wild animals. It was founded in 2016 by a group of academics and advocates concerned about the welfare of animals living in the wild and the need for scientific research in this field.
The primary focus of Wild Animal Initiative is to conduct rigorous scientific research to better understand the challenges faced by wild animals and develop strategies to alleviate their suffering. They aim to bridge the gap between academia and animal advocacy by fostering collaboration and supporting research projects related to wild animal welfare.
Key Aspects of Wild Animal Initiative's Work
- Research: Wild Animal Initiative supports and conducts research projects that aim to improve our understanding of wild animal welfare. This includes studying topics such as population dynamics, predator-prey relationships, disease prevalence, and interventions to reduce suffering in the wild.
- Collaboration and Networking: The organization actively collaborates with researchers, academics, and organizations working in the field of wild animal welfare. They aim to build a strong network of researchers and advocates to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and foster cooperation in addressing the welfare of wild animals.
- Advocacy and Outreach: Wild Animal Initiative engages in advocacy and outreach efforts to raise awareness about wild animal welfare and promote the integration of this issue into animal advocacy and conservation discussions. They provide resources, organize conferences and workshops, and engage with the public to encourage thoughtful consideration of wild animal suffering.
- Grant Funding: Wild Animal Initiative offers grant funding to support research projects focused on understanding and improving the lives of wild animals. They provide financial support to researchers and organizations working on impactful and innovative projects that align with their mission.
- Public Engagement: Wild Animal Initiative strives to engage the public in conversations about wild animal welfare. They aim to increase public awareness, generate discussion, and encourage ethical considerations regarding the well-being of animals living in the wild.
Wild Animal Initiative is committed to using evidence-based approaches and promoting a scientifically rigorous understanding of wild animal welfare. By conducting research and fostering collaboration, they seek to make a positive impact on the lives of wild animals and promote the adoption of ethical principles in wildlife conservation and management.
PETA
PETA, which stands for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is one of the largest and most well-known animal rights organizations in the world. Founded in 1980, PETA is dedicated to promoting the ethical treatment of animals and advocating for their rights across various industries and aspects of human life.
Key Aspects of PETA's Work
- Animal Advocacy and Campaigns: PETA conducts numerous campaigns and advocacy efforts to raise awareness about animal cruelty and promote animal rights. They focus on a wide range of issues, including factory farming, animal testing, fur and leather industries, circuses, zoos, and entertainment that exploits animals. PETA uses various tactics, such as protests, investigations, public education campaigns, and legal advocacy, to push for change and raise public consciousness.
- Investigations and Exposés: PETA carries out undercover investigations to expose and document animal abuse and cruelty in various industries. They gather evidence through undercover work in factory farms, laboratories, slaughterhouses, and other facilities, and then release this information to the public and relevant authorities to spark change and push for legal reforms.
- Corporate Outreach: PETA engages in corporate outreach efforts to encourage companies to adopt more animal-friendly policies and practices. They work with businesses to eliminate animal testing, transition to cruelty-free and vegan products, ban fur and exotic animal skins, and improve animal welfare standards in their supply chains.
- Public Education and Awareness: PETA aims to educate the public about animal rights, ethical choices, and the impacts of animal exploitation. They provide educational resources, online materials, documentaries, and campaigns to inform and empower individuals to make compassionate choices, such as adopting a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, avoiding products tested on animals, and supporting cruelty-free alternatives.
- Legislation and Legal Advocacy: PETA works on legal fronts to push for stronger animal protection laws and regulations. They lobby for animal-friendly legislation, file lawsuits against animal abusers and industries that violate animal welfare standards, and advocate for animals in courtrooms and legislative processes.
- Rescue and Sheltering: PETA operates an animal shelter called the Sam Simon Center, where they provide care and find homes for rescued animals. They offer temporary shelter, veterinary care, and adoption services for companion animals in need.
Petco Love
Petco Love (formerly known as the Petco Foundation) is a national nonprofit organization in the United States that is dedicated to improving the lives of animals. Established in 1999, Petco Love works to promote animal welfare by supporting animal shelters, rescue organizations, and other animal welfare initiatives.
Key Aspects of Petco Love's Work
- Grant Programs: Petco Love provides financial support to animal welfare organizations through its grant programs. These grants help fund various initiatives, such as spay/neuter programs, adoption events, medical care for shelter animals, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives.
- Adoption Efforts: Petco Love partners with animal shelters and rescue groups across the country to promote pet adoptions. They collaborate with these organizations to host adoption events at Petco stores, providing a platform for animals to find loving homes. Petco Love also supports initiatives to increase pet adoption rates and reduce the number of homeless pets.
- Emergency Relief: In times of natural disasters or emergencies, Petco Love works to provide aid and support to animals and their owners. They provide resources, emergency grants, and supplies to help animal shelters and rescue groups during crises and facilitate the rescue and care of animals affected by disasters.
- Lifesaving Programs: Petco Love develops and supports lifesaving programs that focus on reducing euthanasia rates and increasing positive outcomes for animals. They collaborate with animal welfare organizations to implement innovative programs, such as community cat initiatives, foster care networks, and pet retention programs, which aim to improve the well-being of animals and keep them out of shelters.
- Community Engagement: Petco Love engages with communities to promote responsible pet ownership, animal welfare awareness, and the human-animal bond. They offer educational resources, workshops, and events to encourage responsible pet care and provide information on topics such as training, nutrition, and health.
- Advocacy and Collaboration: Petco Love advocates for animal welfare and collaborates with other organizations and stakeholders to drive positive change. They work with lawmakers, government agencies, and industry partners to support animal-friendly policies, regulations, and initiatives that protect animals and promote their well-being.
National Clean Air Month: Nonprofit Organizations to Support
National Clean Air Month is an annual observance held in the United States during the month of May. It is sponsored by the American Lung Association and is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of clean air and the dangers of air pollution.
The purpose of National Clean Air Month is to educate the public about the impact of air pollution on human health and the environment. It also encourages people to take steps to improve air quality, both in their own homes and communities.
There are many ways to participate in National Clean Air Month. Some people choose to volunteer their time to organizations that are working to improve air quality. Others may choose to make changes in their own lives, such as driving less, using public transportation, or recycling.
No matter how you choose to participate, National Clean Air Month is a great opportunity to learn more about air pollution and take steps to protect your health and the environment.
Here are some tips for participating in National Clean Air Month:
- Learn more about air pollution and its effects on human health and the environment.
- Make changes in your own life to reduce your impact on air quality.
- Get involved in your community and advocate for clean air.
- Support organizations that are working to improve air quality.
By participating in National Clean Air Month, you can help make a difference in the fight for clean air.
Earthjustice
Earthjustice is a nonprofit public interest environmental law organization. It was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. Earthjustice has 170 attorneys in 14 offices across the United States, and 14 public-interest lobbyists based in Washington, D.C. They are involved in 630 active legal proceedings.
Earthjustice's mission is to "use the power of law to protect the environment and fight for a healthy planet." They do this by filing lawsuits, conducting research, and educating the public. Earthjustice has won many important environmental victories, including:
- Stopping the construction of the Pebble Mine in Alaska, which would have been one of the largest open-pit mines in the world
- Protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil drilling
- Securing clean air and water for millions of people
- Stopping the Keystone XL pipeline
- Restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay
Earthjustice is a powerful force for environmental protection. They are committed to using the law to make a difference for the planet.
Front and Centered
Front and Centered is a coalition of over 60 grassroots organizations based in and led by communities of color in Washington State. They work to build power and advance the leadership of communities of color on the frontlines of economic, racial, and environmental justice.
Front and Centered was founded in 2017 in response to the Trump administration's attacks on environmental and social justice. They believe that communities of color are disproportionately impacted by climate change, pollution, and economic inequality and that they must be at the forefront of the fight for a just and sustainable future.
Front and Centered's work focuses on four main areas:
- Building power: They provide training and resources to help communities of color develop their leadership skills and organize for change.
- Advocacy: They work to pass policies that protect communities of color and advance racial and environmental justice.
- Research: They conduct research to document the impacts of climate change, pollution, and economic inequality on communities of color.
- Education: They educate the public about the importance of environmental and social justice, and the need to center the voices of communities of color in the fight for a just and sustainable future.
Coalition for Clean Air
The Coalition for Clean Air (CCA) is a nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect public health and improve air quality in California. CCA was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Sacramento.
CCA's mission is to "protect public health, improve air quality, and prevent climate change." They do this by:
- Advocating for strong air quality regulations
- Educating the public about the importance of clean air
- Supporting research on air pollution and its health impacts
- Working to build a clean energy economy
CCA is a leading voice for clean air in California. They have played a key role in the passage of many important air quality laws, including the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) landmark regulations on diesel emissions and greenhouse gases.
CCA is also a strong advocate for environmental justice. They believe that all Californians, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or income, have the right to breathe clean air. CCA works to ensure that air quality regulations are fair and that all communities have access to clean air.
CCA is a powerful force for clean air in California. They are committed to protecting public health, improving air quality, and preventing climate change.
Clean Air Council
The Clean Air Council is a nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect public health and improve air quality in Pennsylvania. The Council was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Philadelphia.
The Clean Air Council's mission is to "protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the people we love." They do this by:
- Advocating for strong air quality regulations
- Educating the public about the importance of clean air
- Supporting research on air pollution and its health impacts
- Working to build a clean energy economy
The Clean Air Council is a leading voice for clean air in Pennsylvania. They have played a key role in the passage of many important air quality laws, including the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the Pennsylvania Air Quality Standards.
The Clean Air Council is also a strong advocate for environmental justice. They believe that all Pennsylvanians, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or income, have the right to breathe clean air. The Council works to ensure that air quality regulations are fair and that all communities have access to clean air.
Our Children’s Earth Foundation
Our Children's Earth Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to protecting the environment for children. They were founded in 1999 and are headquartered in Napa, California.
OCEF's mission is to "protect the public, especially children, from the health impacts of pollution." They do this by:
- Lawsuits: OCEF files lawsuits against polluters who are harming children's health. They have won several important victories, including a lawsuit that forced the closure of a hazardous waste incinerator that was polluting the air in a low-income community.
- Advocacy: OCEF works to pass laws and regulations that protect children from pollution. They have been successful in passing laws that require polluters to reduce their emissions and that protect children's health from toxic chemicals.
- Education: OCEF educates the public about the health impacts of pollution and how to protect themselves and their children. They have developed educational materials for schools, families, and communities.
- Research: OCEF conducts research on the health impacts of pollution and the effectiveness of pollution control measures. They share their research with policymakers and the public to help inform decision-making.
OCEF is a powerful force for protecting children's health from pollution. They are committed to making a difference for the health of our children and the health of our planet.
Global Greengrants Fund
Global Greengrants Fund is a grantmaking foundation that provides small grants (typically $500 to $5,000) to grassroots environmental causes around the world. These funds are used to support community-based groups outside the United States and Western Europe working on issues of environmental justice, sustainability, and conservation. Since its establishment in 1993, Global Greengrants Fund has made over 14,000 grants in 168 countries, giving a total of over $100 million.
Global Greengrants Fund's mission is to "support grassroots environmental action and social justice through small grants." They do this by:
- Providing grants to grassroots organizations: Global Greengrants Fund makes small grants to grassroots organizations that are working to protect the environment and defend the rights of people. These grants are used to support a variety of projects, such as:
- Protecting forests and other ecosystems
- Promoting sustainable agriculture
- Securing clean water and sanitation
- Reducing pollution
- Advocating for environmental policies
- Building the capacity of grassroots organizations: Global Greengrants Fund also provides training and support to grassroots organizations to help them build their capacity and effectiveness. This includes providing training on project management, fundraising, and advocacy.
- Advocating for environmental policies: Global Greengrants Fund advocates for environmental policies at the local, national, and international levels. They work to ensure that environmental policies are just and effective, and that they reflect the needs of grassroots organizations.
Communities for a Better Environment
Communities for a Better Environment (CBE) is a non-profit environmental justice organization that works to protect people and our planet from the harmful effects of pollution and climate change. CBE was founded in 1971 in Chicago, Illinois, and has since expanded to California, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
CBE's mission is to build people's power to achieve environmental health and justice by preventing and reducing pollution and building green, healthy and sustainable communities and environments. CBE does this by:
- Organizing communities to fight for clean air, water, and land
- Providing legal and technical assistance to communities facing environmental threats
- Conducting research and education on environmental health and justice issues
- Advocating for policies that protect people and our planet
CBE has a long history of success in protecting communities from pollution and climate change. Some of CBE's key achievements include:
- Winning a lawsuit that forced the closure of a hazardous waste incinerator in East Los Angeles
- Helping to pass a law that requires California utilities to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
- Securing funding for green jobs training programs in low-income communities
- Winning a lawsuit that forced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen its standards for air pollution
Center for Clean Air Policy
The Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP) is an independent, nonprofit think tank that was founded in 1985 in the United States. CCAP works on climate and air quality policy issues at the local, national, and international levels.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., CCAP helps policymakers around the world to develop, promote and implement market-based approaches to address climate, air quality, and energy problems while trying to balance both environmental and economic interests.
CCAP's work focuses on the following areas:
- Climate change: CCAP works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy. CCAP's climate change work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
- Air quality: CCAP works to improve air quality and protect public health. CCAP's air quality work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
- Energy efficiency: CCAP works to promote energy efficiency and reduce energy demand. CCAP's energy efficiency work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
- Transportation: CCAP works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. CCAP's transportation work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
- International: CCAP works to promote international cooperation on climate change, air quality, and energy issues. CCAP's international work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
CCAP's work has helped to shape climate and air quality policy around the world. CCAP's work has been cited by policymakers in the United States, Europe, and Asia. CCAP's work has also been featured in major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal.
Air Alliance Houston
Air Alliance Houston (AAH) is a non-profit advocacy organization working to reduce the public health impacts of air pollution and advance environmental justice. We believe everyone has the right to breathe clean air and where you live, work, learn, and play should not determine your health.
AAH was founded in 1988 by a group of community activists and environmental professionals who were concerned about the high levels of air pollution in Houston. The organization has since grown to become a leading voice on air quality issues in Houston and the Gulf Coast region.
AAH's work focuses on the following areas:
- Community organizing: AAH works with communities to raise awareness about air pollution, build leadership, and advocate for clean air policies.
- Research and analysis: AAH conducts research on air pollution issues and develops policy recommendations.
- Advocacy: AAH works with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to advocate for clean air policies.
- Education and outreach: AAH educates the public about air pollution issues and provides resources to help people protect themselves from air pollution.
AAH's work has helped to improve air quality in Houston and the Gulf Coast region. Some of AAH's key achievements include:
- Helping to pass the Houston Clean Air Ordinance, which is one of the strongest air quality ordinances in the country.
- Securing funding for air quality monitoring and research in Houston.
- Winning a lawsuit that forced the closure of a major air polluter in Houston.
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Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.
Memorial Day: Nonprofit Organizations to Support
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May.
Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who have died in service to their country. It is a time to reflect on the cost of war and to appreciate the freedoms that we enjoy because of the brave men and women who have fought and died for our country.
There are many ways to observe Memorial Day. Some people visit cemeteries or memorials to pay their respects to the dead. Others participate in parades or other public events. Many people also take the day off from work and spend time with their families and friends.
This list of nonprofit organizations helps veterans and their families:
Transition Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is a nonprofit organization that provides compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one. TAPS offers peer support, grief counseling, casework assistance, grief education, and a variety of other programs and services.
TAPS was founded in 1994 by Bonnie Carroll, who lost her husband, Air Force Colonel Bruce Carroll, in the crash of an Air Force C-130 aircraft in 1991. Carroll was inspired to start TAPS after she realized that there was no one place for families of fallen service members to turn for support.
TAPS is a national organization with over 20 chapters across the United States. TAPS also has a presence in Europe and Asia. TAPS provides services to all those grieving the death of a military loved one, regardless of the cause of death or the relationship to the service member.
TAPS's programs and services are provided free of charge to all survivors. TAPS is funded by private donations and does not receive any government funding.
Here are some of the programs and services that TAPS offers:
- Peer support: TAPS offers a peer support program that connects survivors with other people who have lost a loved one in the military. Peer support groups are led by trained volunteers who have been through similar experiences.
- Grief counseling: TAPS offers grief counseling services to help survivors cope with their grief. Grief counseling is provided by licensed therapists who specialize in grief and loss.
- Casework assistance: TAPS offers casework assistance to help survivors navigate the complex world of government benefits and entitlements. Caseworkers can help survivors apply for benefits, file claims, and understand their rights.
- Grief education: TAPS offers grief education programs to help survivors learn about the grieving process and how to cope with their grief. Grief education programs are offered in person and online.
- A variety of other programs and services:
- A national helpline
- A website with resources for survivors
- A library of books and articles about grief and loss
- A retreat program for survivors
- A scholarship program for children of fallen service members
The organization is a vital resource for families of fallen service members. TAPS provides compassionate care and support to help families cope with their grief and rebuild their lives.
Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation
The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to planning, funding, designing, and building the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The GWOT Memorial will be a lasting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of all who have served — especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice — in the nation's longest ongoing conflict to protect our country.
The Foundation is working to raise the necessary funds to build the memorial. The estimated cost of the project is $200 million. The Foundation is also working to secure a location for the memorial on the National Mall.
Here are some of the things that the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is doing to honor the service and sacrifice of all those who have served in the GWOT:
- Planning, funding, designing, and building the Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
- Raising awareness of the GWOT and the sacrifices made by those who have served
- Providing support to veterans and their families
- Advocating for policies that support veterans
- Educating the public about the GWOT
Children of Fallen Patriots
The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The organization was founded in 2002 by the parents of fallen soldiers who wanted to ensure that the children of these heroes would have the opportunity to pursue a college education.
The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation has provided over $65 million in scholarships to over 2,800 children of fallen service members since its inception. The organization also provides educational counseling and other support services to help these children succeed in college and beyond.
Here are some of the things that the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation does to help the children of fallen service members:
- Provides college scholarships
- Provides educational counseling
- Provides other support services
- Helps children connect with other children who have lost a parent in the line of duty
- Provides resources to help children cope with their loss
- Advocates for policies that support children of fallen service members
Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund
The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides support to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families. The organization was founded in 2000 by philanthropist Zachary Fisher and his wife, Gigi.
IFHF provides a variety of services to service members and their families, including:
- Financial assistance to help with medical expenses, housing, and other needs
- Support for families of fallen service members
- Educational scholarships for children of fallen service members
- Construction of state-of-the-art treatment centers for service members with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
IFHF has provided over $200 million in support to service members and their families since its inception. The organization has also built three Intrepid Spirit Centers, which provide specialized care for service members with TBI and PTSD.
Here are some of the things that the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund does to support the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families:
- Provides financial assistance
- Provides support for families of fallen service members
- Provides educational scholarships
- Builds state-of-the-art treatment centers
- Advocates for policies that support service members and their families
Navy SEAL Foundation
The Navy SEAL Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides critical support to the warriors, veterans, and families of Naval Special Warfare.
The Foundation was founded in 1998 by former Navy SEALs and their families who wanted to ensure that the men and women of Naval Special Warfare (NSW) and their families had the support they needed to succeed.
The Foundation provides a variety of programs and services to NSW warriors, veterans, and families, including:
- Financial assistance for medical expenses, housing, and other needs
- Educational scholarships
- Family support programs
- Wellness and resiliency programs
- Transition assistance programs
- Advocacy for NSW warriors and their families
The Navy SEAL Foundation has provided over $100 million in support to NSW warriors, veterans, and families since its inception. The organization has also built two Navy SEAL & SWCC Memorials, one at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, and one at the Navy Special Warfare Center and School in Coronado, California.
Here are some of the things that the Navy SEAL Foundation does to support the warriors, veterans, and families of Naval Special Warfare:
- Provides financial assistance
- Provides educational scholarships
- Provides family support programs
- Provides wellness and resiliency programs
- Provides transition assistance programs
- Advocates for NSW warriors and their families
Folded Flag Foundation
The Folded Flag Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that provides educational scholarships and support grants to the spouses and children of military personnel who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.
The organization was founded in 2014 with the mission of honoring the sacrifices of military families by providing them with financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. The Folded Flag Foundation believes that education is a critical tool for helping military families to build a brighter future, and they work to ensure that the children and spouses of fallen or disabled service members have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Since its founding, the Folded Flag Foundation has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to military families across the United States. Their impact has been significant, providing educational opportunities to those who might not have had access to them otherwise and helping to ease the financial burden on families who have already sacrificed so much.
Angels of America’s Fallen
Angels of America's Fallen (AoAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides support to the children of fallen military and first responders. The organization was founded in 2005 by two mothers who lost their husbands in the Iraq War. AoAF's mission is to "help children of our fallen military and first responders develop into strong and successful adults by providing them positive mentoring and developmental activities at their most crucial developmental phase of life."
AoAF provides a variety of programs and services to children of fallen heroes, including:
- Financial assistance for sports, music, and art activities
- Mentoring and counseling
- Scholarships for college and trade school
- Networking opportunities
- Social events
AoAF is committed to providing comprehensive support to children of fallen heroes. The organization believes that these children deserve the opportunity to thrive, despite the loss of their parents. AoAF is working to make sure that these children have the resources they need to succeed in school, in their careers, and in life.
America’s Gold Star Families
America's Gold Star Families (AGSFO) is a nonprofit organization that provides support to the families of fallen U.S. service members. The organization was founded in 2008 by a group of Gold Star families who wanted to create a space where they could come together to grieve, heal, and support each other.
AGSFO offers a variety of programs and services to Gold Star families, including:
- Bereavement support groups
- Individual counseling
- Financial assistance
- Educational scholarships
- Social events
- Advocacy
AGSFO is committed to providing comprehensive support to Gold Star families. The organization believes that these families deserve the opportunity to heal and thrive, despite the loss of their loved ones. AGSFO is working to make sure that these families have the resources they need to cope with their grief, rebuild their lives, and honor the memory of their fallen loved ones.
Here are some additional information about AGSFO:
- The organization has served over 10,000 Gold Star families since its founding.
- AGSFO has a team of over 50 staff members and volunteers.
- The organization is governed by a board of directors made up of Gold Star family members and other community leaders.
- AGSFO is a member of the Gold Star Families of America, a national organization that supports the families of fallen U.S. service members.
Wingman Foundation
The Wingman Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides immediate post-mishap support for the Navy and Marine Corps Aviation community and their families. The organization was founded in 2014 by three Active Duty Marine Corps aviators who saw firsthand the need for a support network for families affected by aviation mishaps.
The Wingman Foundation provides a variety of services to families affected by aviation mishaps, including:
- Financial assistance for funeral, travel, and lodging costs
- Emotional support and counseling
- Assistance with navigating the military bureaucracy
- Memorial services and tributes
- Scholarships for children of fallen heroes
The Wingman Foundation is committed to providing comprehensive support to families affected by aviation mishaps. The organization believes that these families deserve the opportunity to heal and thrive, despite the loss of their loved one. The Wingman Foundation is working to make sure that these families have the resources they need to cope with their grief, to rebuild their lives, and to honor the memory of their fallen loved ones.
Here are some additional information about the Wingman Foundation:
- The organization has served over 1,000 families since its founding.
- The Wingman Foundation has a team of over 20 staff members and volunteers.
- The organization is governed by a board of directors made up of aviation professionals, family members of fallen heroes, and other community leaders.
- The Wingman Foundation is a member of the National Military Family Association, a national organization that supports military families.
About Groundswell
Groundswell is a workplace giving program built for modern businesses. It gives organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.
Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.
Mental Health Awareness Month: Support These Nonprofits
Mental Health Awareness Month is a national observance in the United States that is held each May. The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to raise awareness of mental health issues and to encourage people to seek help if they are struggling.
Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it is often overlooked. One in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year, and suicide is the 10th leading cause of death. Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to talk about mental health and break down the stigma associated with mental illness. It is also a time to learn about mental health conditions and to find resources that can help you or someone you know.
Support efforts to raise awareness about mental health by setting up recurring donations to any of these nonprofit organizations:
Black Girls Smile Inc.
Black Girls Smile Inc. (BGS) is a national nonprofit organization that promotes positive mental health and educational activities geared toward young black females. Founded in 2012 by Lauren Carson, BGS's mission is to "empower Black girls and women to lead mentally healthy lives."
BGS provides a variety of programs and resources, including:
- In-person and virtual mental health workshops and support groups
- A mentorship program that pairs Black girls with adult mentors
- A scholarship program that provides financial assistance to Black girls pursuing higher education
- A resource library that provides information on mental health, wellness, and other topics
The organization also advocates for the mental health of Black girls and women at the local, state, and national levels. They work to raise awareness of the mental health needs of Black girls and women and to promote policies that support their mental health.
BGS is committed to providing culturally responsive and gender-affirming mental health services to Black girls and women. The organization's staff and volunteers are all trained in culturally competent mental health care, and they are committed to creating a safe and supportive space for Black girls and women to heal and thrive.
Here are some ways you can support Black Girls Smile:
- Donate to the organization via Groundswell.
- Volunteer your time at one of the organization's events or programs.
- Spread the word about Black Girls Smile to your friends, family, and community.
The Headstrong Project
The Headstrong Project is a non-profit organization that provides confidential, barrier-free, and stigma-free PTSD treatment to veterans, service members, and families connected to their care. Their mission is to help our clients “Triumph Over Trauma” by providing them with effective mental health treatment. Headstrong's network of trauma-informed clinical partners provides individualized, evidence-based outpatient care to their clients.
Headstrong was founded in 2011 by a group of veterans who were passionate about providing access to quality mental health care for their fellow service members. The organization has since grown to provide services to over 10,000 veterans and their families.
Headstrong's services are provided at no cost to clients, and they are available to all veterans, service members, and family members regardless of service era, combat exposure, or discharge status.
Headstrong's services include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Medication management
- Peer support
- Case management
- Vocational counseling
- Financial counseling
- Housing assistance
- Legal assistance
Headstrong also offers a variety of educational resources and events to help veterans and their families learn about mental health and find support.
Mental Health America
Mental Health America (MHA) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to quality mental health care. MHA was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.
MHA's mission is to "build better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness and addiction."
MHA accomplishes this mission through a variety of programs and services, including:
- Advocacy: MHA advocates for policies that support mental health care, such as access to affordable insurance and parity for mental health care.
- Education: MHA provides information and education about mental health to the public, including through its website, publications, and public awareness campaigns.
- Support: MHA provides support to people with mental illness and their families, including through its helpline, support groups, and online resources.
- Research: MHA supports research on mental health, including through its funding of research grants and its publication in the journal Mental Health America.
HealthRIGHT 360
HealthRIGHT 360 is a nonprofit healthcare organization that provides integrated, high-quality, and affordable healthcare to people in need in San Francisco and the Bay Area. The organization was founded in 1974 and has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive healthcare providers in the region.
HealthRIGHT 360 offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, dental care, behavioral health care, and pharmacy services. The organization also provides a variety of support services, such as case management, transportation, and translation services.
HealthRIGHT 360 is committed to providing high-quality, affordable health care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The organization offers a sliding fee scale for all services, and it accepts most major insurance plans. HealthRIGHT 360 also has a robust financial assistance program to help people who cannot afford to pay for their care.
Here are some of the ways HealthRIGHT 360 makes a difference in the community:
- Provides high-quality, affordable health care to people in need
- Offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, dental care, behavioral health care, and pharmacy services
- Provides a variety of support services, such as case management, transportation, and translation services
- Is committed to social justice and equity
- Advocates for policies that improve the health of all people
- Educates the public about health and wellness
- Trains the next generation of healthcare professionals
PEERS
PEERS, or Peers Envisioning and Engaging in Recovery Services, is a nonprofit organization that provides peer support and recovery services to people with mental health conditions. PEERS was founded in 1994 by a group of people with mental health conditions who were passionate about creating a more peer-driven and recovery-oriented mental health system.
PEERS has grown to become one of the largest and most respected peer-run organizations in the country. The organization has a network of over 200 peer support specialists who provide services to people with mental health conditions in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community-based organizations.
PEERS's services are based on the principles of peer support, which is a model of care that emphasizes the importance of peer relationships in recovery. Peer support specialists are people who have lived experience with mental health conditions and who are trained to provide support, encouragement, and hope to others who are struggling.
PEERS's services have been shown to be effective in helping people with mental health conditions improve their quality of life and achieve their recovery goals. The organization's services have been praised by mental health professionals and consumers alike for their effectiveness, affordability, and accessibility.
Here are some of the ways PEERS makes a difference in the community:
- Provides peer support and recovery services to people with mental health conditions
- Trains peer support specialists
- Advocates for policies that support peer support
- Conducts research on peer support
- Raises awareness about mental health and recovery
- Educates the public about peer support
The Jed Foundation
The Jed Foundation is a nonprofit organization that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation's teens and young adults. The Jed Foundation partners with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems. They equip teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. They encourage community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.
The Jed Foundation was founded in 1999 by Peggy and Andrew J. Gottesdiener in memory of their son, Jed, who died by suicide at the age of 19. The foundation is committed to preventing suicide and promoting emotional health among teens and young adults.
The Jed Foundation works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:
- The Jed Campus: A comprehensive approach to mental health and suicide prevention for colleges and universities.
- The Jed Talks: A series of public conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
- The Jed Foundation Student Advisory Council: A group of high school and college students who advise the foundation on its programs and initiatives.
- The Jed Foundation Media and Entertainment Initiative: A partnership with the entertainment industry to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.
- The Jed Foundation Research Program: A research program that supports research
Mental Health Collaborative
The Mental Health Collaborative is a non-profit organization that provides mental health education and awareness to the public. They are dedicated to building resilient communities through mental health education and awareness. They provide an integrated, proactive approach to building mental health literacy; a much-needed education to help promote mental health.
The Mental Health Collaborative was founded in 2019 by Dr. Amy Barnhart, a clinical psychologist, and mental health advocate. Dr. Barnhart saw a need for more mental health education and awareness in the community, and she founded the Mental Health Collaborative to fill that need.
The Mental Health Collaborative works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:
- Mental Health First Aid: A training program that teaches people how to identify, assess, and respond to mental health crises.
- Mental Health Literacy: A series of educational resources that teach people about mental health and mental illness.
- Mental Health Awareness Events: A variety of events that raise awareness about mental health and mental illness.
- Mental Health Advocacy: The Mental Health Collaborative advocates for policies that support mental health care and promote mental health.
BEAM
BEAM, or the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective, is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing social justice-informed mental health education and resources to Black communities. The organization was founded in 2016 by a group of Black mental health advocates who were passionate about addressing the mental health disparities that exist in Black communities.
BEAM works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:
- Mental health education and awareness: BEAM provides a variety of educational resources about mental health and mental illness, tailored to Black communities.
- Peer support: BEAM offers peer support groups and other opportunities for Black people to connect with others who understand their experiences.
- Advocacy: BEAM advocates for policies that support mental health care and promote mental health equity in Black communities.
- Research: BEAM supports research on mental health in Black communities.
NAMI
NAMI, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mental illness. The organization was founded in 1979 by a group of families who were concerned about the lack of resources and support available to people with mental illness.
NAMI works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:
- Support and advocacy: NAMI provides support groups, educational programs, and advocacy services to people with mental illness and their families.
- Public education: NAMI raises awareness about mental illness and mental health through its website, publications, and public awareness campaigns.
- Research: NAMI supports research on mental illness and mental health.
- Policy advocacy: NAMI advocates for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. They provide 24/7 crisis counseling and suicide prevention services through their TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat platforms. They also operate TrevorSpace, the world's largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth.
The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 by Peggy Rajski, Randy Stone, and James Lecesne. The organization was inspired by the 1994 Academy Award-winning short film Trevor, which tells the story of a 13-year-old gay boy who contemplates suicide after being bullied at school.
The Trevor Project has been praised by mental health professionals and LGBTQ advocates alike for its innovative approach to suicide prevention. The organization's services are confidential, free, and available 24/7, making them accessible to LGBTQ youth who may not have other options for help.
The Trevor Project has made a significant impact on the lives of LGBTQ youth. In 2020, the organization provided crisis counseling and suicide prevention services to over 200,000 LGBTQ youth. The Trevor Project has also been instrumental in raising awareness about suicide prevention and LGBTQ youth mental health.
About Groundswell
Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.
Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.
National Child Abuse Prevention Month: Nonprofits to Support
Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed every year in the United States during the month of April. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect, and to encourage individuals and communities to take action to prevent it.
Child abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. It can have serious and long-lasting effects on children, including physical injuries, psychological trauma, and impaired social and cognitive development.
During Child Abuse Prevention Month, various organizations, including child welfare agencies, non-profits, and government agencies, organize events and activities to promote awareness and prevention. These can include public rallies, marches, community workshops, and social media campaigns.
One of the main goals of Child Abuse Prevention Month is to encourage reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect. Many cases of child abuse go unreported each year, and this can perpetuate the cycle of abuse and put children at continued risk.
Overall, the observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as an important reminder of the responsibility that each of us has to protect children and promote their safety and well-being.
National CASA
National CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a nonprofit organization that works to ensure that children who have experienced abuse or neglect have a safe, permanent, and nurturing home.
The organization was founded in 1977 and has since grown to become a nationwide network of nearly 1,000 local programs and more than 94,000 trained volunteers.
The mission of National CASA is to support and promote court-appointed volunteer advocacy for abused or neglected children in order to provide them with a voice in court and to help them find a safe and permanent home as quickly as possible. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of these children in court proceedings, and they work to ensure that the children's needs are met and that they receive appropriate services and support.
National CASA provides a variety of resources and support to local CASA programs, including:
- training and technical assistance
- advocacy tools and resources
- funding opportunities.
The organization also works to raise awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect and to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children.
Through its work, the organization helps to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and loving home.
Prevent Child Abuse
Prevent Child Abuse (PCA) is a national nonprofit organization that works to promote the prevention of child abuse and neglect in the United States. The organization was founded in 1972 and has since grown to become a leading voice in the field of child abuse prevention.
PCA works to raise public awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect and to promote evidence-based prevention strategies.
The organization provides a variety of resources and support to individuals, families, and communities, including:
- parenting education and support programs
- advocacy and policy initiatives
- public education campaigns
One of PCA's signature programs is the Healthy Families America program, which provides home visiting services to families with young children who are at risk for child abuse or neglect. This program is based on a research-based model that has been shown to be effective in improving parenting skills, reducing the incidence of child abuse and neglect, and promoting positive child development outcomes.
PCA also works to promote public policies that support child abuse prevention, such as increasing funding for child abuse prevention programs, strengthening child welfare systems, and promoting family-friendly workplace policies.
Darkness to Light
Darkness to Light is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the prevention of child sexual abuse. The organization was founded in 2000 and is based in Charleston, South Carolina.
The mission of Darkness to Light is to empower adults to prevent child sexual abuse by providing training and resources to individuals, organizations, and communities. The organization's flagship program is the Stewards of Children program, which is an evidence-based training program that teaches adults how to recognize, prevent, and respond to child sexual abuse.
In addition to providing training and resources, Darkness to Light works to raise public awareness about the issue of child sexual abuse and to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children. The organization also works to support survivors of child sexual abuse by providing resources and support services.
Darkness to Light has trained over 2 million individuals in the Stewards of Children program and has partnerships with over 12,000 organizations. The organization's work has been recognized by a variety of national and international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations.
National Indian Child Welfare Association
The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is a nonprofit organization that works to support the well-being of Native American children and families. The organization was founded in 1983 and is based in Portland, Oregon.
NICWA's mission is to promote the safety, health, and well-being of Native American children and families through advocacy, research, and education. The organization works to ensure that Native American children are able to grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing homes and communities.
NICWA provides a variety of resources and support to Native American tribes and organizations, including
- training and technical assistance
- research and data analysis
- policy advocacy.
The organization also works to raise public awareness about the unique issues facing Native American children and families and to promote culturally appropriate approaches to child welfare.
One of NICWA's signature programs is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Program, which provides training and technical assistance to help tribes and organizations implement the Indian Child Welfare Act, a federal law that was enacted in 1978 to protect Native American children and families. The ICWA Program provides support for a range of activities, including legal advocacy, policy development, and community engagement.
Overall, the National Indian Child Welfare Association plays an important role in promoting the well-being of Native American children and families. Through its programs and advocacy efforts, the organization is working to ensure that Native American children have the opportunity to grow up in safe, healthy, and culturally rich environments.
Children’s Defense Fund
The Children's Defense Fund (CDF) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting the well-being of children in the United States. The organization was founded in 1973 by Marian Wright Edelman and is based in Washington, D.C.
The mission of the Children's Defense Fund is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The organization works to achieve this mission through a variety of programs and initiatives that focus on promoting child health and well-being, education, and economic security.
One of the signature programs of the Children's Defense Fund is the Beat the Odds program, which provides academic and leadership support to high school students who have overcome significant obstacles in their lives. The program provides mentoring, tutoring, and other resources to help these students succeed in school and pursue higher education.
The Children's Defense Fund also works to promote policies and practices that support children and families, including advocating for affordable health care, high-quality early childhood education, and economic security for families. The organization also conducts research and analysis to inform its policy advocacy efforts.
Futures Without Violence
Futures Without Violence is a nonprofit organization that works to end violence against women, children, and families. The organization was founded in 1980 and is based in San Francisco, California.
The mission of Futures Without Violence is to promote the health, safety, and well-being of individuals, families, and communities affected by violence. The organization works to achieve this mission through a variety of programs and initiatives that focus on prevention, intervention, and policy advocacy.
One of the signature programs of Futures Without Violence is the Coaching Boys Into Men program, which is an evidence-based program that promotes healthy relationships and prevents dating violence among adolescent boys. The program provides coaches with training and resources to help them teach their athletes about healthy relationships, respect, and nonviolence.
Futures Without Violence also works to address the intersection of domestic violence and other issues, such as health care, housing, and economic security. The organization provides training and resources to healthcare providers, educators, and other professionals to help them recognize and respond to domestic violence and other forms of abuse.
In addition to its programs and initiatives, Futures Without Violence works to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities affected by violence. The organization works at the local, state, and federal levels to promote policies that support survivors of violence and prevent future instances of violence.
National Children’s Alliance
The National Children's Alliance (NCA) is a nonprofit organization that works to support and promote the development of Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the United States. The organization was founded in 1998 and is based in Washington, D.C.
The mission of the National Children's Alliance is to promote healing and justice for children who have been abused or neglected. The organization works to achieve this mission by providing training, technical assistance, and accreditation to Child Advocacy Centers, which are facilities that provide a comprehensive, child-friendly response to allegations of child abuse.
Child Advocacy Centers bring together multidisciplinary teams of professionals to coordinate and conduct investigations of child abuse allegations, including:
- law enforcement
- child protective services
- medical and mental health providers
- victim advocates
By bringing these professionals together in a child-friendly environment, CACs can reduce the trauma that children experience during the investigation process and ensure that they receive the support and services they need to heal.
The National Children's Alliance provides training and technical assistance to CACs to help them improve the quality of their services and achieve accreditation, which is a mark of quality that demonstrates that a CAC meets national standards for effective and comprehensive response to allegations of child abuse.
In addition to its work with CACs, the National Children's Alliance advocates for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. The organization works with federal and state policymakers to promote funding and policies that support Child Advocacy Centers and other programs that serve children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Explore other spotlights in April:
National Foster Care Awareness Month: Support these Nonprofits
National Foster Care Awareness Month is observed in the United States every May. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness about the approximately 400,000 children and youth who are in the foster care system and to highlight the needs of these vulnerable young people.
During this month, organizations and individuals across the country work to increase awareness about the foster care system and its impact on children and families. There are often events and campaigns that focus on recruiting new foster parents, supporting existing foster families, and advocating for policy changes that can improve the lives of children in care.
National Foster Care Awareness Month also provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of the foster care community, including social workers, advocates, and foster parents, who provide critical support to children in care.
Overall, National Foster Care Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that all children deserve a safe, stable, and loving home, and that we must continue to work towards improving the foster care system and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Donate to these nonprofit organizations helping children in need:
Foster America
Foster America is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that works to improve the foster care system by recruiting, training, and supporting leaders who can drive meaningful change. The organization was founded in 2016 and has since worked with partners across the country to support the development of innovative programs and policies that can improve outcomes for children and families involved in the foster care system.
Foster America's mission is to ensure that every child in foster care has a permanent, loving family, and that the system is designed to help children and families thrive. To achieve this goal, Foster America recruits talented professionals from a variety of fields, including social work, education, law, and public policy, and places them in year-long fellowship positions within government agencies and nonprofit organizations that work with the foster care system.
During their fellowships, Foster America fellows work on a range of projects, from designing and implementing new programs to improving data systems and supporting policy development. Fellows receive training, coaching, and ongoing support from Foster America, as well as opportunities to connect with other leaders in the field.
Overall, Foster America is working to build a pipeline of talented leaders who can bring new perspectives and innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing the foster care system. Through their work, Foster America is helping to create a future where every child in foster care has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Think Of Us
Think Of Us is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that works to improve the lives of young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization was founded in 2014 by Sixto Cancel, who experienced the challenges of the foster care system firsthand and wanted to create an organization that could help young people navigate the transition to adulthood.
Think Of Us's mission is to provide young people who have experienced foster care with the tools, resources, and support they need to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, Think Of Us has developed a range of innovative programs and initiatives that focus on building resilience, developing life skills, and promoting self-advocacy.
One of Think Of Us's signature programs is the My Journey app, which is designed to help young people in foster care manage their transition to adulthood. The app provides young people with a personalized dashboard that tracks their progress toward their goals, as well as resources and tools to help them navigate important milestones, such as finding housing, getting a job, and accessing healthcare.
Think Of Us also works with partners across the country to develop and implement new policies and programs that can improve outcomes for young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization advocates for policies that promote youth voice and empowerment, such as the extension of foster care benefits beyond the age of 18, and works with partners to develop programs that provide young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed.
Alliance for Children’s Rights
The Alliance for Children's Rights is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to protect the rights and interests of children and youth who are in the foster care system, are experiencing homelessness, or are otherwise at risk. The organization was founded in 1992 by a group of attorneys who recognized the need for specialized legal services for children and youth.
The Alliance's mission is to ensure that all children and youth have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services to children and youth in need, including legal representation, education advocacy, and healthcare advocacy.
One of the Alliance's signature programs is the Foster Care Legal Services program, which provides free legal representation to children and youth who are in the foster care system. The program works to ensure that children and youth have a voice in court proceedings and that their rights and interests are protected.
The Alliance also provides education advocacy services to help children and youth in foster care succeed in school. The organization works with schools and school districts to ensure that children and youth have access to educational resources and support, and that they are not unfairly penalized due to their involvement in the foster care system.
In addition to its direct service programs, the Alliance also advocates for policy changes that can improve outcomes for children and youth. The organization works with elected officials and community partners to advocate for policies that promote child welfare, education, and healthcare, and to raise awareness about the issues facing children and youth in need.
First Place for Youth
First Place for Youth is a nonprofit organization based in California that works to provide support and resources to young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization was founded in 1998 by a group of foster youth advocates who recognized the need for specialized services to help young people who were aging out of the system.
First Place for Youth's mission is to ensure that young people who have experienced foster care have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to build a successful future. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of programs and services that are designed to help young people achieve self-sufficiency and independence.
One of First Place for Youth's signature programs is the My First Place program, which provides young people who have experienced foster care with housing, education, employment, and mental health services. The program works to help young people develop the skills and resources they need to live independently and to provide them with a supportive community of peers and mentors.
First Place for Youth also provides education and employment services to help young people achieve their goals. The organization offers educational support and tutoring services, as well as job training and placement programs, to help young people develop the skills and experience they need to succeed in the workforce.
Further, the organization also works to advocate for policy changes that can improve outcomes for young people who are aging out of the foster care system. The organization works with elected officials and community partners to promote policies that provide young people with greater support and resources, and to raise awareness about the issues facing young people who are transitioning out of foster care
Fill a Heart 4 Kids
Fill a Heart 4 Kids is a nonprofit organization based in Illinois that works to support and empower children and youth who are experiencing homelessness, abuse, neglect, or other forms of trauma. The organization was founded in 2009 by Tamara and Scott Tome, who recognized the need for services and resources to help vulnerable children in their community.
Fill a Heart 4 Kids' mission is to provide children and youth with the basic necessities they need to thrive, as well as opportunities for education, enrichment, and personal growth. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services and programs that are designed to meet the unique needs of children and youth who are experiencing trauma.
One of Fill a Heart 4 Kids' signature programs is the Fill a Heart 4 Kids Pack program, which provides backpacks filled with essential items to children and youth who are experiencing homelessness or other forms of instability. The backpacks contain items such as clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and other necessities, as well as a personalized note of encouragement from a volunteer.
Fill a Heart 4 Kids also provides educational and enrichment programs to help children and youth develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. The organization offers tutoring, mentoring, and other academic support services, as well as opportunities for sports, art, and other extracurricular activities.
In addition to its direct service programs, Fill a Heart 4 Kids also works to raise awareness about the issues facing vulnerable children and youth, and to advocate for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for these populations. The organization collaborates with community partners, elected officials, and other stakeholders to promote greater awareness and understanding of the needs of vulnerable children and youth.
Partnership for Children
The Partnership for Children is a nonprofit organization based in North Carolina that works to promote the healthy development of young children and families in the region. The organization was founded in 1993 as a public-private partnership and is committed to improving the lives of children and families through a range of programs and services.
The Partnership for Children's mission is to provide young children and families with the resources, education, and support they need to succeed. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services and programs that are designed to promote healthy development, school readiness, and family well-being.
One of the Partnership for Children's signature programs is the Smart Start initiative, which is a statewide program in North Carolina that provides early childhood education and health services to young children and families. The Partnership for Children works in collaboration with other community partners to implement Smart Start programs in the region.
The Partnership for Children also provides a range of other programs and services, including early childhood education programs, childcare subsidies, parenting education, and support services for families of children with special needs. The organization is committed to ensuring that all children and families have access to high-quality services and resources that promote their health and well-being.
Restoration Collective
Restoration Collective is a nonprofit organization based in Nashville, Tennessee, that works to combat poverty and homelessness in the community. The organization was founded in 2014 by a group of volunteers who wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who were struggling with homelessness.
The mission of Restoration Collective is to empower individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness by providing them with access to resources, education, and support. The organization operates a number of programs and services that are designed to address the root causes of poverty and homelessness, including affordable housing, job training, and community outreach.
One of Restoration Collective's signature programs is the Restoration Housing program, which provides affordable, supportive housing to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. The program offers a range of services and resources, including case management, job training, and financial counseling, to help residents achieve stability and independence.
Restoration Collective also operates a job training program called Restoration Works, which provides individuals who are experiencing homelessness with the skills and resources they need to find and maintain employment. The program offers job training, career coaching, and support services, and has a strong track record of success in helping participants find meaningful employment.
Casa for Children of DC
CASA for Children of DC is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the best interests of children who have been abused or neglected and are involved in the District of Columbia's child welfare system. The organization is part of a national network of Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs that operate in communities across the United States.
The mission of CASA for Children of DC is to ensure that every child in the District of Columbia who has experienced abuse or neglect has a safe and permanent home and that their needs and rights are represented in court. The organization recruits and trains volunteer advocates who are appointed by the court to represent the best interests of children who are involved in the child welfare system.
CASA volunteers are trained to be impartial advocates who focus solely on the child's well-being, and they work tirelessly to ensure that the child's voice is heard and their rights are protected.
In addition to its core program of providing volunteer advocates for children, CASA for Children of DC also provides a range of other services and resources to support children and families involved in the child welfare system. These services include mentoring, educational support, and access to mental health services.
CASA for Children of DC is committed to making a real difference in the lives of children who have experienced abuse or neglect, and to advocating for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. Through its volunteer advocacy program, supportive services, and community partnerships, the organization is working to create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Youth in View
Youth in View is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of children and youth in foster care. The organization is based in California and was founded in 2007 by a group of foster youth alumni who wanted to create a platform for youth in care to have a voice in the policies and programs that affect their lives.
The mission of Youth in View is to empower youth in foster care by providing them with advocacy, leadership development, and supportive services. The organization operates a number of programs and initiatives that are designed to improve outcomes for youth in care, including advocacy campaigns, training programs, and peer support networks.
One of Youth in View's signature programs is the Youth Advocacy Program, which trains youth in care to become advocates for themselves and others in the foster care system. The program provides youth with training in public speaking, advocacy, and policy analysis, and helps them to develop the skills and confidence they need to make their voices heard on issues that affect their lives.
Youth in View also operates a Peer Mentorship Program, which connects youth in care with supportive mentors who have experience in the foster care system. The program provides youth with emotional support, guidance, and practical advice on a range of issues, including education, employment, and housing.
In addition to its direct service programs, Youth in View also works to raise awareness about the needs and experiences of youth in foster care, and to advocate for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for this population. The organization collaborates with community partners, elected officials, and other stakeholders to promote greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by youth in care, and to advocate for policies that can help these young people succeed.
Foster Angels of Central Texas
Foster Angels of Central Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to children in the foster care system and the families who care for them. The organization is based in Austin, Texas and was founded in 2005.
The mission of Foster Angels of Central Texas is to improve the lives of children in foster care by meeting their most urgent needs and providing them with opportunities to succeed.
The organization operates a number of programs and initiatives that are designed to support children and families in the foster care system, including:
- Wish Program: This program grants wishes to children in foster care who are facing challenging circumstances, such as abuse, neglect, or illness. Foster Angels of Central Texas works with child welfare agencies to identify children who have a specific need or want, and then works to fulfill their wish, whether it be for a new pair of shoes, a laptop for school, or tickets to a special event.
- Life Skills Program: This program provides young people in foster care with training and support to help them develop the skills they need to succeed as independent adults. The program offers workshops on financial literacy, career readiness, and other important life skills, as well as mentorship and coaching to help young people navigate the challenges of transitioning out of foster care.
- Emergency Assistance Program: This program provides emergency financial assistance to foster families who are facing unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs. Foster Angels of Central Texas works with child welfare agencies to identify families in need and provide them with the resources they need to overcome the financial barriers that can threaten their ability to provide safe and stable homes for children in care.
In addition to its core programs, Foster Angels of Central Texas also provides a range of other services and resources to support children and families in the foster care system, including holiday gift drives, educational support, and advocacy efforts to promote greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by children in care.
About Groundswell
Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.
Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.
Responding to Disasters: Your Corporate Giving Playbook
As the frequency and intensity of natural disasters and wide-scale emergencies increase, and as government resources are stretched thin, communities are turning more often to companies to assist in immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. This toolkit provides your company with do's and don'ts of how best to respond, as well as additional resources around how best to engage employees in responding to a disaster.
If you're looking for a list of agencies who respond to disasters, read our blog Disaster Relief Response: Nonprofit Organizations.
Give Better: A Playbook for Effective Giving in a Disaster
Companies can play an important, valuable role in different phases of disasters - from preparedness to immediate response to longer-term recovery. Companies bring a lot to a disaster context; in addition to critical funding, they can leverage a workforce with specific skills, innovative resources, and cutting-edge technology that can help prepare communities to be more resilient and also save communities from a downward spiral post-disaster.
But HOW companies show up and partner with communities before, during, and after a disaster is critical. Many companies end up making mistakes that can reduce the effectiveness of their support - and sometimes cause more harm than good to those facing disaster.
"Business as usual" would be simply cutting a big check to one or two big-name disaster response charities, selected by company leaders. But there are so many other ways to have an impact and diversify that impact. For instance, companies can empower their employees to show up at the moment and donate in a way that makes them feel most connected to what’s going on, whether it’s to a local animal shelter rescuing abandoned animals, a homeless shelter helping an influx of those displaced, or a food bank distributing to families in need.
In this toolkit, Groundswell's team shares what companies should - and shouldn't - do, when it comes to sending resources to support when disaster strikes.
Responding to Disasters: Facts and Data
- 50% percentage of donations arrive within the first two weeks of major disasters, and the rest come over the next six weeks, leaving longer-term work under-funded
- $3.6 billion donated in disaster-related funding from corporate giving programs in 2020
- $1 invested, $6 saved — it is estimated that every $1 invested in disaster preparedness can save $6 when a disaster hits
Demystifying the Phases of Disasters
Disasters are complex. Our eyes are drawn to images of the destruction left in a storm’s path or after the earth stops shaking - but the true effects of disasters and the lives impacted often go far beyond what makes news headlines. The majority of donations in a disaster strongly correlate with the moments of immediate relief - when lives are at risk, critical infrastructure is damaged, and the media is laser-focused on it.
Disasters should be viewed on a longer continuum, to not only include the immediate response and relief, but also longer-term recovery (rebuilding homes, roads, and livelihoods), as well as critical mitigation and preparedness activities - such as hardening structures, improving evacuation and communications protocols, etc - to help prevent future devastation.
It’s important to consider these different phases when determining how and when to provide support for a disaster. Donations before, during, and after disasters can be game-changing, but figuring out the right, the most impactful approach isn’t always easy.
In the following pages, we offer tips to help you make the right choices not only when disaster strikes but also how you consider support in the longer term.
Do’s and Don'ts of Corporate Disaster Philanthropy
Here are some tips from the team at Groundswell, leveraging years of experience in the disaster relief space:
#1: Don't send stuff, send money
Sending clothes or supplies (also known as “in-kind” donations), while well-intended, can clog already complex supply and logistics operations. And they often don’t get to those most in need, or worse - are entirely inappropriate for the context.
People don’t need paper towels thrown at them when they don’t have drinking water. And they don’t need winter coats if they live in a tropical climate. Sending hundreds of pounds of frozen chicken to a disaster zone when there’s no way to keep it frozen, much less transport it to those needing food, can end up being more trouble than help.
The disaster response organizations on the ground have the best understanding of what supplies are needed and where to deploy them - and the best way to support those organizations is through cash donations.
#2: Sometimes it's ok to send stuff, here's how
In some instances, in-kind donations CAN be very effective in an emergency, but they need to be tightly coordinated with nonprofits. In-kind donations are also most helpful if they can have an impact at scale and fill a critical gap; in other words, it is important that these products fill a need that others on the ground cannot fill.
Examples include: providing access to large machinery to clear roads, technicians to restore power and communications infrastructure, aircraft to send relief workers to the frontlines, and free advertising to increase awareness of what’s happening and drive cash donations.
#3: Move quickly
In many emergency situations, early donations are critical for organizations responding on the ground - enabling emergency teams to mobilize and purchase life-saving supplies.
You can launch a gift or match program for your employees in a matter of minutes using the Groundswell platform, immediately allowing your company, via your entire employee base, to send support to disaster relief organizations on the ground.
In a disaster, one large corporate check to a single organization, while impactful for that organization, risks deprioritizing what your employees care most about. Empower all of your employees to move quickly and meet the moment using Groundswell.
#4: Leverage expert vetting
You may want to move quickly, but you also want to protect against fraud and ensure the donations go to worthy recipients. You can move fast knowing that Groundswell handles all the vetting - researching and evaluating the organizations responding to disasters to give you the peace of mind that your donation is going to be well used.
Groundswell is also launching a partnership with GlobalGiving to provide access to thousands of rigorously-vetted international nonprofits responding to disasters that hit beyond U.S. borders.
#5: Think holistically (and empower your employees to respond to disasters holistically)
Responding to a disaster includes far more than repairing homes and infrastructure, or providing shelter and food to those displaced.
Often those who are already vulnerable before disaster strikes (homeless populations, women confronting domestic violence, low-income communities, refugees) are disproportionately impacted by natural disasters, especially if they don’t have immediate access to emergency services or social safety nets. Below are a few examples.
Poverty
- An assessment of the impacts of Hurricane Harvey in Houston shows that low-income neighborhoods experienced far greater damage and longer-term recovery challenges than wealthier areas. For example, only 17% of homeowners held flood insurance policies, which tend to be held by wealthier households.
Domestic Violence
- Disasters also exacerbate violence against women. Studies have shown that in the aftermath of large-scale disasters, intimate partner violence increases. The percentage of women reporting violence increased from 33.6% to 45.2% following Hurricane Katrina.
Mental Health
- Another less visible impact of a disaster is mental health, especially for those who have previously suffered from mental illness. Overwhelming evidence suggests that the stress of living through a disaster can exacerbate prior challenges or create new ones. Many of the mental health challenges that emerge after a disaster present themselves about 18 months later, which is often when most funding support ends.
#6: Support longer-term recovery needs and future resilience
While it is important to support disaster relief nonprofits that are working on the frontlines to quickly provide immediate relief for impacted communities, it is also important to be mindful of the longer-term recovery needs that emerge weeks and even months after a disaster, when most donations dry up. Most donations are made within the first few weeks of a disaster, and then when attention wanes, so does the funding.
Recovery
- Yes, we are motivated to provide relief at the moment to those in need of immediate lifesaving food, water, and shelter. And that support is important for organizations on the ground. But equally critical is the long-term recovery work, like repairing homes, roads, and businesses, which requires immense resources. For example, there are reports that the recovery from Hurricane Ian in September 2022 could be the costliest in history for the state of Florida. Moreover, when the media’s attention goes elsewhere, so do donations. So a donation to support longer-term recovery can have an immense impact.
Calculating the Value of Preparedness & Resilience
- Equally important is investing in disaster preparedness - sometimes known as resilience - that helps communities be better prepared to withstand the impacts of the next natural disaster. This can mean fortifying structures, and also investing in systems for evacuation and communication in a disaster. Preparedness is historically underfunded, but it’s where every dollar can have a huge impact. It is estimated that every $1 invested in preparedness and disaster mitigation can save $6 when a disaster hits. It is also an opportunity to test more innovative prevention and mitigation approaches that governments are less willing to invest in.
Disaster Response: Engage Your Employees
Acknowledge the Crisis
There will likely be an awareness of the disaster -- depending the scale and amount of media attention. But communicating early to your employees via a company-wide email or blog post can help display empathy with those impacted and signal a commitment to step up and support those impacted by the crisis.
Call to Action
Share details of a specific gift or match program for the disaster. This communication can highlight specific nonprofits that your company wants to support, or point employees to other featured nonprofits found on the Groundswell app dashboard specifically focused on responding to the disaster. The company may be offering a special, time-sensitive match as a way to encourage employees to participate.
Report Results
Share the results of the ways that your company came together - collectively - to support communities impacted by the disaster. This might include how many employees participated/donated, the number and amount of donations, the range of nonprofits that received support, etc.
If there is a time-sensitive match that expires at the end of a set time frame, remind employees to log into their Groundswell account to contribute and donate.
Emergency Giving Program: Gifting and Matching
- Keep a portion of your annual budget in reserve so that you can match and/or gift employees to have a greater impact in response to the emergency. You can set up an ad hoc program with Groundswell in a matter of minutes, and meet the moment with urgency and intention.
- Consider launching a combined Gift and Match program - that empowers employees to donate at the moment, while also incentivizing them to contribute their own funds.
- Being immediately responsive and pointing your employees to vetted nonprofits to donate to shows that you are responsive as a company and giving your employees the agency to take action.
AAPI Heritage Month: Donate to These Nonprofits
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM) is a month-long celebration of the history, culture, and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). It is observed every May in the United States and is a time to recognize the contributions of AAPIs to American society.
AAPIs are a diverse group of people, with roots in over 50 countries and territories in Asia and the Pacific. They come from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds and speak over 100 languages. AAPIs are the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the United States and makeup over 7% of the population.
AAPIs have a long and rich history in the United States. Asian Americans have played a vital role in the development of the country. AAPIs have served in the military, founded businesses, and made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and humanities.
AAPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of AAPIs and to learn more about their history and culture. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges that AAPIs have faced, and to recommit to the fight for equality and justice for all.
Here are some ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month:
- Attend a cultural event or festival.
- Read a book or watch a movie about Asian American or Pacific Islander culture.
- Learn about the history of AAPIs in the United States.
- Talk to your friends and family about AAPI Heritage Month.
- Get involved in your community and advocate for the rights of AAPIs.
- Donate to the nonprofits supporting AAPIs
This list of nonprofits supports Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders:
Asian Arts Initiative
The Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) is a community-based arts center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1993 by a group of artists and community leaders who were concerned about the lack of opportunities for Asian American artists in the city.
AAI's mission is to "engage artists and everyday people to create art that explores the diverse experiences of Asian Americans, addresses our social context, and imagines and effects positive community change."
The organization offers a variety of programs and services, including:
- Exhibitions of visual art, photography, and film
- Performances of theater, dance, and music
- Educational programs for youth and adults
- Artist residencies and fellowships
- Community-building initiatives
AAI's programs are designed to provide opportunities for Asian American artists to create, exhibit, and perform their work. The organization also works to promote understanding and appreciation of Asian American culture through its educational and community-building initiatives.
AAI is located in the Chinatown North neighborhood of Philadelphia. The organization's headquarters is a former Warner Bros. theater that was renovated in 2005. AAI also has a satellite gallery in the Logan Square neighborhood.
AAI is a non-profit organization that receives funding from a variety of sources, including the city of Philadelphia, the state of Pennsylvania, and private foundations. The organization also relies on the support of its members and donors.
AAI is a vital part of the Asian American community in Philadelphia. The organization provides opportunities for artists to create and share their work, and it works to promote understanding and appreciation of Asian American culture. AAI is a valuable resource for the city of Philadelphia and the region as a whole.
AAPI Equity Alliance
AAPI Equity Alliance (AAPI Equity) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) in Los Angeles County. The organization was founded in 1973 as the Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council (APPPC), and changed its name to AAPI Equity in 2022.
AAPI Equity's mission is to "advance racial and economic justice for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through policy advocacy, civic engagement, and capacity building."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Anti-Asian hate
- Education
- Economic opportunity
- Health
- Housing
- Immigration
- Voting rights
AAPI Equity has a long history of advocacy for AAPIs in Los Angeles County. The organization has played a key role in securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, passing legislation to protect AAPIs from discrimination, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
Here are some of AAPI Equity's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, AAPI Equity played a key role in passing a law that requires the Los Angeles Police Department to collect data on hate crimes against AAPIs.
- In 2022, AAPI Equity helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
- AAPI Equity is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in Los Angeles County.
AAPI Equity is a vital part of the AAPI community in Los Angeles County.
National Asian Pacific Women’s Forum
The National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF) is a national non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women and girls. The organization was founded in 1996 by a group of AAPI women who recognized the need for an organization that would amplify their voices and experiences.
NAPAWF's mission is to "build power with AAPI women and girls to influence critical decisions that affect our lives, our families, and our communities."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Economic justice
- Education
- Health
- Immigrant and refugee rights
- Reproductive justice
- Violence against women
NAPAWF has a long history of advocacy for AAPI women and girls. The organization has played a key role in passing legislation to protect AAPI women from violence, securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
NAPAWF is a valuable resource for AAPI women and girls. The organization provides information and resources on a variety of issues, and it works to build power and unity within the AAPI community.
Here are some of NAPAWF's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, NAPAWF played a key role in passing the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, which includes important protections for AAPI women.
- In 2022, NAPAWF helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- NAPAWF is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in the United States.
NAPAWF is a vital part of the AAPI community in the United States.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) is a national non-profit organization that advocates for the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). The organization was founded in 1982 by a group of AAPI activists and lawyers who recognized the need for an organization that would fight for the rights of AAPIs.
AAJC's mission is to "promote a fair and equitable society for all by working for civil and human rights that empower Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other underserved communities."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Anti-Asian hate
- Civil rights
- Criminal justice reform
- Education
- Economic opportunity
- Immigration
- Voting rights
AAJC has a long history of advocacy for AAPIs. The organization has played a key role in passing legislation to protect AAPIs from discrimination, securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
Here are some of AAJC's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, AAJC played a key role in passing the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which provides funding to law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute hate crimes against AAPIs.
- In 2022, AAJC helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- AAJC is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in the United States.
Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco (AAM) is a museum in San Francisco, California that specializes in Asian art. It is one of the largest Asian art museums in the United States, with a collection of over 18,000 works of art from all major Asian countries and traditions. The museum's collection spans over 6,000 years of history and includes a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and metalwork.
The AAM was founded in 1966 by a group of local philanthropists and art lovers. The museum's first home was in the War Memorial Opera House, but it moved to its current location on Larkin Street in 1989. The new building, designed by architect Gae Aulenti, was praised for its innovative design and its integration of traditional Asian and modern Western architectural elements.
The AAM is a major cultural institution in San Francisco, and it attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. The museum offers a variety of public programs, including lectures, films, and family activities. It also has a robust educational program that reaches out to schools and community groups throughout the Bay Area.
The AAM is committed to making Asian art accessible to everyone. The museum offers free admission to all visitors on the first Tuesday of every month, and it has a variety of programs and resources for people with disabilities. The museum also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it is working to make its collection and programs more representative of the diversity of the Asian community.
The AAM is a vital part of the cultural landscape of San Francisco, and it is playing an important role in promoting understanding and appreciation of Asian art and culture.
Asian Pacific Fund
The Asian Pacific Fund (APF) is a community development financial institution (CDFI) that invests in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities in the San Francisco Bay Area. APF was founded in 1984 by a group of API leaders who recognized the need for a financial institution that would provide capital and other resources to API businesses and organizations.
APF is a non-profit organization that is governed by a board of directors that is composed of API leaders from the Bay Area. APF's staff is also majority API. APF is committed to using its resources to support API communities and to promote economic development and opportunity for API individuals and families.
APF offers a variety of financial products and services to API businesses and organizations, including:
- Loans: APF provides loans to API businesses and organizations for a variety of purposes, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate development.
- Investments: APF invests in API businesses and organizations through a variety of vehicles, including venture capital, private equity, and debt investments.
- Technical assistance: APF provides technical assistance to API businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, including business planning, marketing, and financial management.
- Education and training: APF provides education and training to API businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, including financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.
APF has invested over $1 billion in API communities in the Bay Area. APF's investments have helped to create and support thousands of jobs, and they have helped to revitalize API neighborhoods and communities. APF is a vital part of the economic development and opportunity for API individuals and families in the Bay Area.
Search to Involve Filipino Americans
Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California.
They provide a variety of services to Filipino Americans, including:
- Health and human services, such as case management, counseling, and health education
- Community economic development, such as small business assistance and job training
- Arts and culture programming, such as dance, music, and theater performances
- Civic engagement and advocacy, such as voter registration and voter education
SIPA was founded in 1973 by a group of Filipino American community leaders who were concerned about the lack of resources and services available to Filipino Americans in Los Angeles. SIPA has since grown into a major provider of services to Filipino Americans, and it is one of the largest and most respected Filipino American organizations in the United States.
SIPA's mission is to "enrich the lives of Pilipino Americans and others by providing health and human services, community economic development, arts and culture, and a place where people of all backgrounds can come together to strengthen community." SIPA's vision is to be "a leading force in the empowerment of Pilipino Americans and others, and to create a more just and equitable society for all."
Chinese for Affirmative Action
Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA) is a community-based civil rights organization located in San Francisco Chinatown. We fight for social justice for Chinese Americans and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in California.
CAA was founded in 1969 by a group of Chinese American community leaders who were concerned about the lack of opportunities for Chinese Americans in education, employment, and housing. CAA has since grown into one of the leading civil rights organizations in the United States.
CAA's mission is to "defend and promote the civil and political rights of Chinese and Asian Americans within the context of and in the interest of, advancing multiracial democracy in the United States."
CAA works on a variety of issues, including:
- Education: CAA advocates for equal access to quality education for all students, regardless of race or ethnicity. CAA also works to close the achievement gap between Asian American and Pacific Islander students and other students.
- Employment: CAA advocates for fair and equal employment opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to address the issue of wage discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
- Housing: CAA advocates for fair and affordable housing for all Californians, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to address the issue of housing discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
- Immigration: CAA advocates for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. CAA also works to protect the rights of immigrants, including Asian American and Pacific Islander immigrants.
- Voting rights: CAA advocates for the right to vote for all Californians, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to register Asian American and Pacific Islander voters and to educate them about their voting rights.
National Volunteering Week: Nonprofits to Support
National Volunteering Week is an annual event that takes place in many countries around the world, usually during the month of April.
It is a week-long celebration of volunteering and its importance in society, and it provides an opportunity for organizations and communities to recognize and thank volunteers for their contributions.
During National Volunteering Week, there are often a variety of events and activities organized to promote volunteering and encourage more people to get involved. These may include volunteer fairs, community service projects, and recognition ceremonies for outstanding volunteers.
The week also serves as a reminder of the many different ways that people can volunteer their time and skills, from working with non-profit organizations to helping out in schools, hospitals, and other community organizations.
Overall, National Volunteering Week is a great opportunity for people to come together and celebrate the spirit of volunteering, and encourage others to get involved and make a positive difference in their communities.
Here is a list of nonprofit organizations to support for National Volunteering Week:
Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2010 by two military veterans, Jake Wood and William McNulty. The organization's mission is to provide disaster relief and humanitarian aid to people affected by natural disasters and other crises.
Team Rubicon is unique in that it is primarily staffed by military veterans who have experience in disaster response and recovery operations. The organization leverages the skills and expertise of these veterans to provide effective and efficient disaster relief efforts.
The organization's disaster response efforts include search and rescue, debris removal, and home repairs. In addition to responding to disasters in the United States, Team Rubicon has also provided aid to people affected by natural disasters and conflicts in countries around the world, including Haiti, Nepal, and the Philippines.
Overall, Team Rubicon's unique approach to disaster relief and humanitarian aid has made it a highly respected and effective organization in the nonprofit sector.
Points of Light
Points of Light is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1990 by former U.S. President George H.W. Bush. The organization's mission is to inspire, equip, and mobilize people to take action that changes the world.
Points of Light operates in over 200 countries and territories. The organization works with both individuals and organizations to promote volunteerism, community engagement, and social responsibility.
The organization offers a variety of programs and initiatives to support these goals, including:
- The Points of Light Global Network: This network includes hundreds of organizations and individuals who are working to promote volunteerism and civic engagement in their communities around the world.
- The Civic Accelerator: This program provides training and support for social entrepreneurs who are working to address important social and environmental issues.
- The Daily Point of Light Award: This award recognizes individuals and organizations who are making a difference in their communities through volunteerism and service.
- The Conference on Volunteering and Service: This annual conference brings together thousands of leaders and practitioners from the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors to share ideas and best practices for promoting volunteerism and community engagement.
Through its various programs and initiatives, Points of Light has become a leading organization in the nonprofit sector, helping to inspire and empower people around the world to take action and make a positive difference in their communities.
Operation Gratitude
Operation Gratitude is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2003 by Carolyn Blashek. The organization's mission is to express gratitude to U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families by sending care packages and letters of appreciation.
Since its founding, Operation Gratitude has shipped over 3.7 million care packages to U.S. service members deployed overseas and to their families and veterans at home. The care packages include a variety of items, such as snacks, hygiene products, entertainment items, and letters of appreciation from volunteers and supporters.
In addition to sending care packages, Operation Gratitude also organizes events and programs to support military personnel and their families. These programs include the Battalion Buddy Program, which provides stuffed animals to children of deployed service members, and the Veterans Day Parade Float, which honors veterans and their families.
Operation Gratitude relies on the support of volunteers and donors to carry out its mission. Volunteers from across the country contribute their time and skills to assemble care packages and write letters of appreciation. Donors provide the funding and materials needed to create the care packages and support the organization's programs.
Overall, Operation Gratitude is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in supporting U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Youth Volunteer Corps
Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1987 with the mission of engaging youth ages 11-18 in meaningful volunteer service. The organization's goal is to inspire a lifetime commitment to service and to develop the skills and abilities of young people to become effective community leaders.
YVC operates in over 50 communities across the United States and Canada, and partners with schools, youth-serving organizations, and community groups to provide service opportunities for young people. YVC programs typically consist of a variety of service projects that focus on issues such as hunger and homelessness, the environment, and senior care.
The organization emphasizes the importance of meaningful service experiences. It works to ensure that youth have the opportunity to engage in service that is both rewarding and impactful. YVC programs also aim to build leadership skills and promote personal growth and development through activities such as team building, leadership training, and reflection.
YVC also offers a number of special initiatives and programs, such as the YVC Global Youth Service Day, which is a day of service that takes place each year in April, and the YVC Summer of Service, which is a summer program that provides intensive service experiences for young people.
Overall, Youth Volunteer Corps is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has helped to inspire and engage thousands of young people in meaningful volunteer service. By promoting a lifelong commitment to service and leadership, YVC is helping to create a better future for communities across North America.
VolunteerNow
VolunteerNow is a nonprofit organization based in Dallas, Texas, that provides services and resources to support volunteerism and community engagement. The organization's mission is to connect people with meaningful volunteer opportunities and to build capacity for effective community engagement.
VolunteerNow offers a variety of services to support volunteerism, including a volunteer matching platform that connects individuals and groups with volunteer opportunities in their communities. The organization also provides training and support for nonprofit organizations and community groups, to help them build their capacity to engage volunteers effectively.
In addition to its volunteer matching and capacity-building services, VolunteerNow also provides a variety of other resources to support community engagement. These resources include a volunteer center accreditation program, which recognizes organizations that meet certain standards for volunteer engagement, and a corporate volunteerism program that helps companies develop and implement effective employee volunteer programs.
VolunteerNow is also actively involved in promoting and supporting national days of service, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and National Volunteer Week, and works to raise awareness of the importance of volunteerism and community engagement.
Overall, VolunteerNow is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in promoting volunteerism and community engagement in the Dallas area and beyond. By connecting people with meaningful service opportunities and building the capacity of nonprofit organizations and community groups, VolunteerNow is helping to create a stronger and more engaged community.
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America (VOA) is a national nonprofit organization that was founded in 1896 with the mission of serving people in need and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive. The organization provides a wide range of services to help people in need, including affordable housing, job training, and employment services, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services.
VOA operates in over 400 communities across the United States and serves more than 1.5 million people each year. The organization's programs and services are designed to address a variety of social and economic issues, including poverty, homelessness, addiction, and mental illness.
One of the organization's core programs is its affordable housing services, which include the development and management of low-income housing units for individuals and families in need. VOA also provides a range of support services for residents of its housing units, such as case management, employment services, and life skills training.
In addition to its housing services, VOA also provides a variety of other programs and services, including job training and employment services, substance abuse and mental health treatment, and services for veterans and their families. The organization's programs are designed to address the unique needs of the individuals and communities it serves, delivered with compassion, respect, and a commitment to excellence.
Overall, Volunteers of America is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in improving the lives of people in need across the United States.
Adopt One Block
Adopt One Block is a nonprofit organization that encourages individuals and groups to take responsibility for the cleanliness and upkeep of their local communities. The organization's mission is to promote a sense of civic pride and responsibility by empowering individuals and groups to take ownership of their neighborhoods and to work together to keep them clean and well-maintained.
Adopt One Block encourages individuals and groups to "adopt" a block in their community, which involves committing to keeping that block clean and free of litter and debris. The organization provides resources and support to help adopters organize cleanup efforts and to connect with other individuals and groups who are also committed to keeping their neighborhoods clean.
In addition to its focus on community cleanups, Adopt One Block also works to promote environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of reusable materials and reducing waste. The organization also supports education and outreach efforts to raise awareness about the importance of community involvement in maintaining clean and healthy neighborhoods.
By promoting a sense of civic pride and responsibility, Adopt One Block is helping to create stronger, more connected, and more vibrant neighborhoods.
All Hands and Hearts
All Hands and Hearts is a nonprofit organization that provides disaster relief and recovery services in communities affected by natural disasters and other crises around the world. The organization's mission is to help communities recover from disasters and to build back stronger and more resilient than before.
All Hands and Hearts provides a range of services to support disaster relief and recovery efforts, including debris removal, home and school rebuilding, and community development. The organization relies heavily on volunteers, both local and international, to provide these services. Volunteers receive training and support to ensure that they can contribute effectively to relief efforts.
One of the unique features of All Hands and Hearts is its focus on long-term recovery and rebuilding. The organization recognizes that the effects of natural disasters and other crises can be long-lasting, and works to support communities in their efforts to rebuild and become more resilient in the face of future disasters.
All Hands and Hearts has responded to disasters and crises around the world, including hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires.
The organization has a strong track record of delivering effective and impactful relief and recovery services and has received numerous awards and accolades for its work.
Spark the Change Colorado
Spark the Change Colorado is a nonprofit organization that works to empower young people and create positive change in communities across Colorado. The organization's mission is to inspire and support youth-led service projects that address critical community needs and help to build stronger, more connected communities.
Spark the Change Colorado works with a wide range of community partners, including schools, nonprofit organizations, and businesses, to identify community needs and develop service projects that are led and implemented by young people. The organization provides resources, training, and support to help young people develop leadership skills, plan and implement service projects, and make a positive impact in their communities.
One of the unique features of Spark the Change Colorado is its focus on youth-led service projects. By empowering young people to take a leadership role in service projects, the organization is helping to build a new generation of community leaders who are committed to creating positive change and making a difference in their communities.
Spark the Change Colorado has supported a wide range of service projects in communities across the state, including projects focused on environmental sustainability, health and wellness, and social justice.
The Guide to Being a Modern Philanthropist: Elevate Your Impact With Groundswell
This guide is intended to provide resources and inspiration for Groundswell users on how to donate to causes they care about. It provides tips to best identify and donate to charities that have a proven track record of impact. It also discusses how to think about geography and size when deciding where to donate, and explains the ways in which even small, recurring donations can have be powerful for charities working on the frontlines every day.
Groundswell can be your partner in your journey as a modern philanthropist. Your donations are a critical part of addressing society's myriad issues, such as poverty, education, healthcare, and environmental concerns. And giving to others is also good for you. It has been shown that people who donate to charity experience increased happiness and well-being compared to those who do not give. This sense of satisfaction comes from the knowledge that your actions are making a positive impact on the world and helping those in need.
Through Groundswell, you can easily add funds to your account, browse or search for charities, and donate in a matter of minutes. In this guide, we help demystify some of the questions you might have as you consider where, when and how to donate.
Six Tips to Becoming a Modern Philanthropist
Summary
- Pick causes and charities that align with your values: When deciding what you want to support, start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most.
- Understand impact through the lens of size & geography: The geographic reach of different charities' programs, and how large or small they are, can help as you determine what to support.
- Evaluate best in class charities: Learn how to assess not only the financial health of an organization, but also what questions to ask when looking at other impact metrics.
- Set a giving goal: Decide how much you want to give annually through Groundswell, and follow the simple steps to set up contributions to achieve that goal.
- Maximize impact through recurring donations: Simplify your giving and provide nonprofits with a steady stream of revenue through monthly, recurring donations.
- Optimize your giving through tax-efficient strategies: Leverage the versatility of Groundswell to reduce your tax burden through payroll giving, stocks contributions, and bunching.
1. Pick Causes & Charities that Align with Your Values
Your giving journey often is deeply personal, rooted in your own values and lived experiences. When deciding what causes you want to support, it’s important to start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most. Who or what do you want to impact? What cause is most aligned with that? Use that as a starting point to then find the charities best positioned to have an impact on what you care most about. Focusing on specific cause areas allows you to be more intentional about how you donate.
There are thousands of causes and more than a million nonprofits on the Groundswell platform that tackle challenges from all angles, from improving K-12 education or finding a cure for Alzheimer’s to reducing plastics in the ocean or protecting women’s rights.
After determining what causes matter most to you, it’s also helpful to identify the type of impact you are seeking to make. Are you interested in supporting organizations that are “on the ground” providing direct services or those doing longer-term, important policy and research work? That can help guide you in picking the charities that you want to donate to.
2. Understand Impact: Size & Geography
Where to donate
When deciding where to donate, it’s also important to determine where you want that impact to happen. For many people, where they give is closely linked to where they live – their local food pantry, homeless shelter, house of worship, or neighborhood school.
Others may want to focus their giving beyond where they live and donate to organizations that operate in certain regions or even other countries. There’s no ‘right’ answer - and many people choose to donate both locally and globally to a cause they care about. For example, you may want to support an organization that is both on the frontlines supporting refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, as well as helping resettle refugee families near your town in the U.S.
Does size matter?
Similarly, there is no right answer for what size organization is best to donate to. Whether they are large or small, if they have a strong track record of impact and do not have a pattern of mismanagement of funds, they are worthy recipients of donations.
Many people want to donate to organizations that have a proven track record of implementing large-scale programs, or are on a strong growth trajectory, year over year. Larger organizations generally have shown their ability to receive larger amounts of funding, and in turn design and implement programs at a scale that have a greater impact towards the causes you care about most. But small organizations can also be extremely impactful - even if the radius or scope of impact is smaller. Although many of today’s social and environmental problems are massive in scale, the vast majority of nonprofits are tiny; indeed, most nonprofits in the United States are small, grassroots organizations - and 20% have annual budgets of less than $50,000. For smaller nonprofits, even the smallest donation on an annual or monthly, recurring basis can have a huge impact on their ability to sustain programs or even expand.
3. Evaluate "Best in Class" Charities
There are multiple ways to assess the quality of a charity; many ratings sites focus primarily on financial metrics, but it is equally important to assess not only how an organization is managing its funds, but also the quality of its work. And while a rating system like Charity Navigator can be helpful, it is important to know that no rating system is comprehensive. Groundswell offers an important starting point - we only feature organizations that are in good standing with the IRS and eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.
- Programmatic Impact: Understanding a nonprofit’s impact - through its programs and the populations that it serves - is an important way to evaluate its effectiveness in tackling the causes you care about. Many nonprofits provide details about programming approaches on their websites, including testimonials, photos, and reports detailing specific results. Keep in mind that understanding and assessing impact is highly qualitative - there is no clear ‘score’ - especially because what or who is being impacted varies across the thousands of nonprofits.
- Financial Management: Nonprofits, especially larger ones, are required to disclose details related to their financial performance annually – to include assets, revenue and breakdown of expenses in forms submitted to the IRS. Many nonprofits are proactively transparent about their finances and post audited financial statements and other reports on their websites. But financial data does not always tell a complete story. There may be important investments in fundraising staff, which two years later yield a windfall in donations that can be put towards programs.
- Advisories: Sometimes there are advisories based on pending or ongoing legal action. Groundswell works to monitor these advisories and remove any charities that it believes are acting improperly or mismanaging donor funds. We also remove any charities that have had their nonprofit status revoked by the IRS.
- Groundswell-curated Featured Causes: While many donors might want to do their own research, sometimes it’s far easier (and efficient) to put your trust in others. Groundswell’s impact team provides donors with additional inspiration, and has done the vetting work to determine cause-specific organizations that are well run and most importantly having a strong impact.
4. Aim High with a Giving Goal
You can use Groundswell’s calculator found under your Profile to set or edit your annual giving goal. This can be a flat amount, or a percentage of your annual salary. While estimates vary, a common range for giving as a percentage of annual salary is between 2-6%.
The good news is that with your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, you can easily set up recurring contributions to stay on track to meet your goals. It’s also important to maximize the matching offered by your company’s giving program, where applicable.
Your giving goal can help fund recurring donations, as well as account for unexpected events that you may want to donate to.
5. Level Up with Recurring Donations
Recurring donations can be a great component of your philanthropic strategy. As a bonus, there are benefits for both donors as well as nonprofits.
For donors, setting recurring donations to autopilot every month or quarter means you don’t have to think about it or go through the steps to do it on a regular basis.
Put simply, it’s a smart use of your time. It is also a symbol of a donor’s commitment to a cause, and a belief in the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact - not just in a moment of crisis, but on a continuous basis. Groundswell’s recurring contributions and donations features help facilitate recurring giving.
For charities, recurring donations provide a steady, predictable stream of revenue that helps with budget planning. For many organizations, large or small, recurring donations can have a huge impact. Similar to the trends in grassroots political fundraising, having many small-dollar donors is good for nonprofits.
It helps them build awareness and shows to the larger-dollar donors that there is a community that believes in the nonprofit’s mission. It also helps de-risk; nonprofits with one or two large donors and very few small-dollar donors can run into major problems if any of those large donors stop supporting their work.
6. Optimize Your Tax-Efficient Giving
You can leverage the versatility of your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, which is underpinned by a Donor-Advised Fund, to be strategic and reduce your tax burden.
Donate appreciated stock
If you have appreciated stocks that you've held for more than a year and you donate them through your Groundswell account, you won't have to pay capital gains tax on the appreciation when those shares are exchanged for their market value.
Plus, you'll be eligible for a tax deduction for the full fair market value of the stock at the time of contribution into your Groundswell account.
Give with payroll
You can leverage Groundswell’s Payroll feature to make giving more tax efficient. Contributions to Groundswell through payroll deductions are eligible for an immediate tax deduction for the amount contributed. This means that your taxable income for the year is reduced by the amount of your contribution. Contributing on a recurring basis via payroll also makes it easier to “set and forget” and achieve your giving goals more efficiently.
Bundle contributions
You can also take advantage of the Donor-Advised Fund structure of Groundswell to make a larger contribution in a single tax year and maximize tax benefits by itemizing deductions in the year that the larger contribution is being made - commonly known as “bunching.”
For example, if you typically give $5,000 to charity each year but decide to give $25,000 to your Groundswell account in one year, you can itemize your deductions that year and take the standard deduction in the following years. By doing so, you may be able to minimize your tax burden over time while still supporting the charities you care about.
Want access to other toolkits like this?
Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.
Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.
The Science of Giving: Why Do People Donate to Charity?
It’s easy enough to give away that old sofa stashed in the corner of your garage. But why do people donate to charity? What causes you, or anyone else, to send a $100 check to a foundation or spend an evening tutoring underserved youth? We have dozens of sayings about giving. Do good and good things will happen to you. To whom much is given, much is expected. I can’t do everything, but I can do something. There’s more, but the point is that giving is a part of the human experience. Without a doubt, for many people, it seems the right thing to do. People give because it feels good to do so. Americans are a particularly generous lot. In fact, 60% of us give money, 72% help strangers and 42% volunteer, often just because we are asked. And during the pandemic? Americans became even more generous. In 2020 and 2021, donations were higher than they were in 2019. The average donation per person was $574 in 2021.What’s more, there are undeniable psychological and scientific benefits that make donating important to the human spirit and will keep people giving generously into the foreseeable future.
The Science of Giving: What Happens in the Brain
For Americans, there are plenty of opportunities to spend money which, researchers admit, provide a dopamine hit. So it can be tempting to think that we’re just a purchase away from nirvana. But the accumulation of things is not the type of spending that makes a difference in our lives or the lives of others. We get more bang for the buck, so to speak, when we give to others. That’s because giving has a positive impact on the brain. It makes sense that our brains would reward us for helping to preserve society, releasing the same types of feel-good chemicals as during exercise. It is one of the evolutionary traits that has helped us build prosperous civilizations. In fact, in 2006, Jorge Moll and Jordan Grafman, neuroscientists at the National Institutes of Health, were able to measure the neural activity of giving, thus proving what we intuitively knew already. Subjects were allocated money that they could either keep for themselves or donate to selected charities. By tracking the impact on the pleasure centers of the brain, researchers discovered that the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the subgenual area lit up when subjects donated the money. These are the same parts of the brain that light up when presented with a delicious meal or when talking about a romantic partner.
Why Do People Donate to Charity?
For years, there has been a philosophical discussion about whether or not charitable giving is altruistic. Do people give their money and donate their time just for the purpose of doing good, expecting nothing in return? Psychologists and philosophers argue that because charitable acts lead to feelings of happiness and satisfaction, true altruism does not exist.But many people consider this argument flawed. When it comes to human behavior, there are many shades of gray. If a benefactor feels happier following an act of kindness, that doesn’t mean that the motivation is self-serving.
Altruism
Altruism is a hallmark of cooperation. Cooperation underpins our society and is, in part, what separates humans from animals. Why do people donate? Because it feels good. Our society is built on the values of empathy, compassion and solidarity, among others. People give because doing so fosters a sense of belonging and generates meaning and purpose in their lives. There are other good outcomes, as well.
Giving May Help Depression
It’s pretty obvious that giving makes people happier. Michael Norton, professor of psychology at Harvard and co-author of the book, “Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending,” agrees. “When we tell people ‘Hey, did you know that giving to other people can make you happy?’ Most people are not blown away. They’ve had experiences that make them happy. They understand the concept, but it doesn’t occur to us that often to give instead of getting stuff for ourselves.”If you’re assuming that depression is not a major factor in your company, don’t be so sure. According to a July 2021 survey by SilverCloud Health, approximately two-thirds of U.S. workers suffer from clinical levels of depression or anxiety. Depression may mean that employees exhibit a high rate of absenteeism and fall short in key areas of performance, including decision-making, focus and communications. When an employee is depressed, it can have a devastating effect on the workplace. Depression is generally accompanied by a decline in how an individual views themselves. It may seem intuitive for those suffering from depression to attempt to bolster their self-image by focusing on, for example, getting others to notice their positive qualities. But researchers found that goals centered around self-image will likely make matters worse. Alternatively, they found that the pursuit of compassionate goals, that is, helping others, seems to alleviate the symptoms of depression and improve personal relationships. Perhaps that’s because helping others puts one’s own life into perspective and generates a more optimistic outlook.
Giving Increases Longevity
Charitable volunteering could even increase your lifespan. A classic study published in the Journal of Health Psychology concluded that elderly volunteers had a 44% lower mortality rate within the next five years after controlling for health habits, social support and other factors. According to researchers, prosocial spending or spending money on other people (which includes charitable donations) can even lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation, both risk factors for a number of health conditions.
The Charitable Brain and Your Corporate Giving Programs
According to Michael Norton, automatic withdrawals may not be enough to engage your employees. “(Automatic withdrawals are) not going to have as big an impact on my life as if I’m thinking about who I’m giving to and why I’m giving to them and the impact that I’m having.” When you understand how and why charitable giving makes people happy, you can leverage this information to make your corporate giving program one that will not only engage and delight your employees but accrue benefits to the company and to the broader society as well. The best programs align with corporate values and help employees establish habits that facilitate giving in a memorable and meaningful way. Certainly, it makes sense for companies to implement programs that are easy to administer. But they must also ensure that employees are involved in selecting charities, auditing themselves, managing their giving targeting, tracking the good deeds of the non-profits and maybe even volunteering. With a properly executed corporate giving program, companies can realize the many benefits that such a plan has to offer to its employees and to the communities it serves. At Groundswell, we can help you give your corporate giving program a whole new look and feel and make it a pillar of your compensation system. Contact us for more information.
From Dock to Dish: A Deep Dive Into Seafood Sustainability
This week we dive into an interview with Wendy Norden, Director of Science and Global Strategies at Seafood Watch Program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, discussing the interconnected depths of consumer buying, aquaculture, climate change, and economics of seafood.Celebrating seafood sustainability is a cause bigger than itself affecting human populations around the world as much as the species we fish and farm, and a cause that Meg Vandervort of Groundswell is particularly passionate about. Meg sat down with Wendy Norden from the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch Program with questions to help all of us non-marine biologists understand the challenges and successes surrounding sustainable seafood. Wendy spent years working underwater as a marine biologist and researcher, before moving to New Zealand and working in a government role overseeing their seafood industry. For the past twelve years, Wendy has been with the Monterey Bay Aquarium and is currently the Director of Science and Global Strategies for their Seafood Watch Program, responsible for the overall scientific integrity, vision, innovation, and direction of the program. She’s also in charge of maintaining global strategic direction and partnerships that support global fisheries and aquaculture improvement.
Welcome! In celebration of World Oceans Day this year, I’m excited to dive into a topic near and dear to me—seafood sustainability. I’m a huge fan of Monterey Bay Aquarium and have been following the Seafood Watch program for some years now. For those who aren’t as familiar, can you give a brief overview of what Seafood Watch is doing to advance healthier oceans?
Wendy: Sure, and of course. Seafood Watch provides the information needed to make better choices at the supermarket, and we'll work with business partners to really source seafood and see that it’s more responsibly done. And it really boils down to very difficult subject matter into a guide, like red, yellow, and green, knowing what to source and also knowing that you know, consumer choices really do matter quite a bit. You know, that also has very broad reaching applications as well. So when consumers make choices in the United States, our business partners kind of come to the table—they want to source those seafood products that the consumers are looking for and also to make a better planet as well. But on top of that, it also gives producers around the world an idea of where their product is in terms of sustainability. And it is a big landscape, right, from really great production to really poor and everything kind of in between. So, we provide that information that helps guide purchasing but also helps industry understand about sustainability in order to make change and make things better, because our goal really is about celebrating seafood, making the right choices, and hopefully improving the rest.
That’s wonderful! I’m actually curious to learn a little bit more about you. We always love to highlight the people behind some of these amazing movements that are happening, but can you give us a brief history or your journey to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch program, and have you always had a passion for the ocean growing up?
Wendy: It’s a very winding path. Growing up I got into scuba diving. Before college, I worked several jobs and saved a lot of money because I wanted to travel, so then I went to New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji as a young person. When I went scuba diving in most of these places for the first time, I did not realize at that point that it could be a job, like you could actually do this kind of work. The minute I came back home, I officially got advanced certified and I enrolled in college to really be a marine biologist. Everyone told me at that point, “that's nice, you'll never get a job”, but I was determined to do it anyway because I knew I’d figure it out. Throughout college, I had a lot of great internships, and I did a lot of work underwater. I got more experience doing research, but I wanted to do more. I ended up moving to New Zealand for several years, and I got a really great job working for the government working on a program to reduce bycatch, and I actually worked on the observer program for the whole country. That really helped me understand how to work better with the industry, how to set goals that maybe people didn't agree with, but learned how to actually work together. That and science, plus understanding what to actually call it, really helped me. With that experience, I ended up working in academics for a while. When I got to Seafood Watch, all that experience helped me understand how to apply science in an understandable way—how to work with the industry, knowing that you might be at odds at some point, but you actually all want the same end goal as well. It really helped me set up my career, and I’ve been with Seafood Watch for almost twelve years now. It’s been a very exciting journey. I learn every day—something different, something new—and I have amazing partners.
That’s exciting! Sounds like a dream job.
Wendy: Yeah, I feel really lucky. I never get bored. I find I'm amazed at the people that I meet all the time because I travel—or I used to before COVID— all over the place, talking to people about seafood, working with producers, understanding where everyones’ values are. At the end of the day, everyone wants to do a good job for seafood sustainability.
You touched on something that leads me to my next question about seafood sustainability in general, which is that it's actually an extremely complex thing, and it's not so cut and dry, like just buying from the local fisherman, or don’t eat fish.
But between sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture and the seafood supply chain – it's a lot to wrap your head around. What would you say for someone who's just getting into understanding this topic? What is the most pressing thing we can focus on?
Wendy: I feel like at any level, if you want to get involved, there's a place for you. I think if you really just want to, say, I want to understand the source of a particular seafood and I'm going to purchase responsibly, use our information. We boil it all down into very simple red, yellow and green. All of our reports and assessments are online, so if you want to dig a little deeper, you can read those assessments and understand the issues. There really is a place for any level of information you want, essentially, because we put it all out there. It's all out there publicly available. I think it really is important to know that the choices we make do matter at the grocery store. They do mean something. And they help us do our work and improve, because we want to celebrate seafood. We think eating seafood is a great thing. We want to have all seafood produced in a way that's sustainable and when I say sustainable, I mean the environment. I mean food security. I also mean things like better equity and supply chains. So, it really has to be good for people and the ocean.
Oh, that's so interesting. I'm also curious, from the general consumers’ perspective, a question that might come up is “should I potentially avoid buying a particular type of seafood?” For example, if I'm buying shrimp, is it more likely that it's unsustainably caught or has human trafficking attached to it?
Wendy: I go back to using our recommendations. The red is really what things you should avoid. Our hope is that red doesn't stay red. Our hope is not like you just abandon it and say, I'm not buying this again. But it does matter because when consumers don't buy something because it's red, that gives us a lot of incentives to go to the industry and say look, this is really what people are wanting. They want more sustainable products. That does go a long way. What we do in our reports is dig into those major issues. Why does it cause red? So we have standards that we develop from wild-capture and fisheries. We know scientifically why it's not sustainable, and it gives us the consumer demand. It really gives us that extra incentive for the industry to make those changes, which are also good for them. Any seafood product generally can be the best choice, farmed from any country that has a species—it's just a matter of us getting the right data, and us being able to say it isn't being done the right way. So the ability is there, like our green listing isn’t completely aspirational. It is doable, but it's a high bar. Everyone can actually get there. And that is our goal: To push the entire industry and have a much more sustainable industry overall.
On a brighter note, what are some of the bigger recent accomplishments that the Seafood Watch program has had that maybe people don't know about?
Wendy: Well, I think a big one that we haven't talked about enough is our development of our improvement verification platform, which doesn't sound very exciting, but it really is. We have developed the technology with partners to collect data efficiently and quickly on a farm and then scale it up to a region to understand. We actually can assess thousands of farms and in little time spent, get them to that green level. That has not happened in the past. We've developed technology that basically works online or offline and collects data efficiently and quickly, and then we scale it up to a region so you can have more scalable change. It also identifies areas needing improvement. We already have 2,000 shrimp farms going through the system that are green. To me, that's a huge accomplishment that's taken us a long time to develop. Very exciting. We also have recently launched aquaculture governance indicators, which again doesn't sound exciting, but it is because we have developed these indicators. We don't really know what makes really good aquaculture governance structures. What do you need to have? What are the key elements? We worked on developing those key elements to help the governance structures, and it isn't just about legislation, it's about how the industry is formed, and how reactive it is to change and how adaptable it is that the system in place in a country or region that allows for good things to happen allowing for sustainability. Understanding those underlying conditions and what gets in the way of sustainability is super important, because it isn't as simple as saying, here's a checklist. There's a reason why that isn't happening. And it could be infrastructure, it could be poverty, it could be too many illegal things happening. It could be many different things. It helps us understand underlying conditions that exist. A third one I'll just briefly talk about, one issue, is why use antibiotics for aquaculture? And that’s spread across every production system from farm salmon, shrimp, tilapia, you name it. We convened a large working group of fifty people from over twenty-one countries in the last year with the World Bank and came up with the key areas of impact on antibiotics, because we still don't even know that necessarily. What are our key recommendations going forward about what we think we should do, and how do you actually make sure the antibiotic issue doesn’t get out of control? Because right now, with warming water temperatures, you're gonna have more disease, more need for antibiotics. And in poor countries, you often don't even have labels on bottles for these things. Some people don’t really know what they're putting in their ponds. We are going to be launching our key recommendations very soon on that government and industry and then we're also doing a series of workshops to talk to farmers directly and find out what their needs are.
Wonderful, thank you so much for your insight and time, Wendy!
For Seafood Watch’s consumer guides to buying sustainable seafood that Wendy mentions, you can find them at SeafoodWatch.org.Log into your Groundswell Personal Giving Account to support Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Seafood Watch Program.
How To Become a Philanthropist: 7 Steps To Change the World
If you’re wondering how to become a philanthropist, it’s easier than you think. Anyone can do it and, contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for the wealthy. Make no mistake about it: Humans are social creatures. We love to help one another. That’s why philanthropy is so popular. It’s a feel-good activity that improves our world. And the benefits far outweigh the costs. Before you start contributing to worthy causes, however, it helps to understand the options available to you. You’ll want to make good decisions so that you maximize the impact you want to make in the world. No worries, either, about how much — or how little — money you have. All you need is a vision and a plan.
What Is Philanthropy?
A philanthropist is an entity, either a person or a corporation, that provides time, money, or resources — and perhaps all three — to people or nonprofits in need of assistance. The overarching goal is to make lives better for others (or the world we inhabit). Philanthropy is often associated with large sums of money and wealthy people. But, as mentioned, philanthropists can be any person or entity. Even a tiny business can be philanthropic.Some philanthropists rise to rockstar status and are known for their generosity. For example, Warren Buffett, Melinda Gates and Oprah Winfrey are just a few among the mega-rich who have given large sums and had an impact on important social and environmental issues. But you don’t have to be a millionaire, and indeed - many nonprofits are supported by hundreds of thousands of people who give modestly. Even a relatively small donation - alongside hundreds of others who also are giving a small amount - can add up to hugely impactful levels of support for nonprofits working to support communities in need.
What Philanthropy Looks Like
Philanthropy can take a number of forms. These include, for example:Money: Donations may be one time only or on a regular basis. Philanthropists may also bequest money after death or establish a trust.Time: Those who don’t have money to donate or prefer to contribute in other ways can donate time and labor. Examples include volunteering at a homeless shelter or tutoring students after school. As with monetary donations, these can be one-time, yearly or more frequent contributions. Many small, community-based nonprofits are dependent upon the generosity of their volunteers’ time to extend the impact of their mission.Resources: These donations, known often as “in-kind,” include furniture, vehicles, food, clothing, toys, computers, etc.
Benefits of Changing the World With Philanthropy
It may seem to be a cliche, but the benefits of philanthropy are immeasurable for those donating time, money or other resources:
- Lends perspective: Philanthropy heightens your sense of connectivity to the world and the things that really matter.
- Better health: Your mental health and physical wellbeing both improve when you give back.
- Lower stress levels: Volunteering has been proven to lower stress and enhance feelings of well-being by releasing dopamine.
- Tax reductions: Donations may be written off on personal taxes.
- Social interaction: Volunteering can offer opportunities to network and meet others who are committed to similar causes, and connections can be formed among a group of donors providing financial support.
- Improved skill set: As a volunteer or a donor who has researched the causes that nonprofits are working on, you will learn new skills, both hard and soft, and improve your leadership acumen.
How To Become a Philanthropist
As with any good strategy, you’ll need a road map to get to your final destination. Follow these seven steps to become a philanthropist:
1. Clarify Your Goals
Before you decide where to put your time and effort, you’ll need to understand what’s most important to you. What do you value? Where can you make a difference? What would feel good to do? Include your personal or professional goals such as expanding your network. Whether it’s working for climate change or helping your community’s underserved population get the resources they lack, make sure that you feel passionate about the issue.
2. Determine Your Commitment
Before you decide what to do, you need to determine how to do it. Do you want to give money or time? If it’s money, what can you afford? If you plan to volunteer, how much time do you have? When can you volunteer?
3. Choose Your Organization
Once you know the type of commitment you can make, research and vet organizations. Do they align with your mission and values? Where do they work? If you know you want to focus on homelessness in your community, determine if the organization is serving the homeless population in your city. Most organizations share information about their programs, their leadership and how they use their charitable donations. If you have questions, ask. The organization should be transparent and credible.
4. Check With Your Company
Before you completely nail down a target nonprofit, check out the support your company may offer – whether that be a match or volunteer opportunities.
5. Establish a Plan
Based on the causes you care about, the resources you want to commit to and the organizations you want to support, determine your giving cadence. For many, setting up recurring, monthly donations means you can ‘set it and forget it.’ But you might also want to consider setting aside some funds for donating during an emergency - whether it's a hurricane on the Gulf Coast, the war in Ukraine, or a social justice issue.
6. Stay Engaged and Curious
Find your community, and learn about other organizations that are doing important work in support of the causes you care about. You might find that in order to tackle an issue that you’re passionate about, multiple organizations are needed to make change. You can create social connections in-person or online to discover more organizations.
7. Trumpet the Cause
Now that you’re a practicing philanthropist, tell others about the organizations you support and why. They may be inspired to help or to find a cause of their own.
Have Fun With It!
Philanthropy is something anyone can do. Whether you donate time or money, it offers great benefits and improves the lives of others. Find the organization or cause you want to support and go for it. It’s a fun and easy way to give back to the community and expand your horizons.If you would like to know more about a corporate giving program, contact Groundswell. We can help turn philanthropic giving into an essential employee benefit.
Donor-Advised Fund vs. Private Foundation: What's the Difference?
Donating directly to a charitable organization might be the simplest way to give, but there are also various philanthropic vehicles available for minimizing taxes and maximizing impact. Two of the better known structures are donor-advised funds (DAF) and private foundations.
Donor-Advised Fund vs. Private Foundation
While there are 1.4 million registered public charities in the United States, less than 1% are donor-advised funds. Likewise, private foundation numbers, at around 90,000, are relatively modest. The impact of these nonprofit organizations, on the other hand, can be considerable. Here are the key differences between donor-advised funds and private foundations.
What Is a Donor-Advised Fund?
The donor-advised fund (DAF) is a tax-advantaged personal giving account established at a public nonprofit sponsor organization. The account is opened in the donor’s name and contributions are made to the organization(s) chosen by the donor. That might be a charity, but it could also be a university, religious foundation or financial institution. DAFs are enjoying unprecedented popularity with donations jumping by 27% since 2019. Giving from DAFs topped $34.67 billion in 2020, with the five largest — Fidelity, National Philanthropic Trust, Schwab, Vanguard and Silicon Valley Community — accounting for $24.5 billion alone. That said, the size of the average fund is a lot less, at around $150,000. Donors can gift cash, stock, real estate or other assets to a donor-advised fund. Traditionally, DAFs have been viewed as a tax-efficient way to give over a longer period of time without any annual obligation to distribute funds (thus the nickname “zombie philanthropy”), but now Groundswell is empowering corporations to unlock the advantages through our Philanthropy-as-a-Service platform. Whereas DAFs have conventionally been the preserve of the ultra-rich and brokerages, we’re offering access starting at $1 million (the lowest minimum contribution in the industry) to help employees with meaningful giving that benefits communities.
What Is a Private Foundation?
A private foundation, on the other hand, is a legal entity established solely for charitable purposes. Usually launched as a family or organization’s legacy initiative, the private foundation is a long-term project whose influence can spread worldwide. That’s certainly true of three of the biggest three: the Bill and Melinda Gates, Ford and Getty foundations. Private foundations are administered by a board of directors and can receive funds via real estate, investment assets or charitable donations. Unlike public charities, however, they usually derive their financial support from a single source, whether it’s a person, family or organization.
Key Differences Between Donor-Advised Fund vs. Private Foundation
There are a few important distinctions to note between the two, particularly when it comes to the overarching mission and vision.
Longevity
Most donor-advised funds are intended to support charitable giving during the philanthropist’s lifetime, although some do extend to a further generation or two. One of the criticisms of DAFs is that rather than distributing donations to non-profit organizations in need, they are used by the rich to “park” private wealth in a tax deductible fund. That’s not the Groundswell approach. Our platform is designed to establish a minimum annual distribution for DAFs to bring communities to life, not mothball zombie philanthropy funds. Private foundations, by contrast, focus firmly on the future legacy, and most are established as permanent entities that will outlive the founder.
Control
The board of directors (which can include the founder) manages a private foundation. For a DAF, the sponsor organization has control, although the donor may give their recommendation or advice on how grants are distributed.
Profile
Private foundations often celebrate a particular goal or set of values, so concealing the founder’s identity is rarely a concern. DAFs do offer confidentiality, so they are a useful vehicle for benefactors who want to support a charitable organization anonymously.
Establishment
There is a lower barrier to entry for donor-advised funds, some of which can be set up with as little as $5,000, although upwards of $100,000 is more common. Because all legal formalities are covered by the parent organization, DAFs are relatively easy to set up. By contrast, private foundations take longer to establish, and the legal, administrative and tax affairs require professional support. Private foundations usually start with funds of $10 million or more.
Tax Matters
Arguably the biggest difference between the two is in terms of tax regulation. For private foundations, the IRS dictates that a 5% minimum of net investment assets must be distributed annually in the form of grants or administrative expenses. To set up a private foundation, the founder(s) must apply for recognition of exemption under Section 501(c)(3) with the IRS, and will subsequently need to file detailed tax returns on board members’ compensation, fees and grants. All are a matter of public record. Donor-advised funds, on the other hand, do not require any annual grants to be administered but do offer immediate tax advantages, particularly if the donor is receiving a windfall, inheritance or revenue from a business or property sale. Neither do DAF donors have to file tax returns to the IRS, not least because ultimate control of the DAF is with the sponsor nonprofit organization.
We’re Here To Support Your Giving Efforts
Despite the “zombie” tag, DAFs are by no means evil by nature. In fact, they can be an effective way to drive meaningful giving that brings communities to life. To find out how we’re raising zombie philanthropy from the dead with an employee benefit that benefits the world, get in touch with us today.
Anna Malaika Tubbs: On Celebrating Black Motherhood, and Creating a Social Justice-Driven Portfolio
At Groundswell, we are privileged to talk to a wide range of individuals about philanthropy in all its forms. That is why we are so grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with New York Times best-selling author of The Three Mothers, Anna Malaika Tubbs. The Three Mothers shines a light on mothers Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin, who raised and shaped Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X., and James Baldwin. The book celebrates their legacy and Black motherhood which has shaped much of American history. Anna believes in supporting philanthropic organizations that recognize the importance of motherhood, particularly for black women in America.
Thanks for joining us, Anna. It’s an honor to speak with you. You begin your book by outlining your personal tie to three very incredible mothers — Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin — and how their history spans over the past century. That’s incredible. What ultimately led you to exploring these three incredible women in particular?
It was done out of curiosity, and it was a sort of elimination process, in the sense that I knew I wanted to do a project like Hidden Figures, Margot Lee Shetterly's book. I wanted to be a person who discovered other hidden figures; other black women whose tales we should have known all along but had been lost, erased, or hidden.
I had an amazing mother who was always talking about the significance of celebrating mothers and paying more attention to the crucial role that moms play in our society.
So I've always had this idea in my head that I'm going to do something about black mothers who should have been known.I wanted to focus on the civil rights movement because it comes up so frequently in our policy debates and other discussions. I whittled it down to these three since they were born within six years of each other, and their famous kids were born within five years of each other. This brought them together over time without reducing their complexity and diversity, while celebrating their differences; each chapter covers ten years of their lives.
What I think is so great about your book is your approach to research, and how you were so honest about what information you could find and what you could not. The absence of history is equally as important. That said, you talk about the erasure of Black Women in history, especially through the eyes of Alberta, Louise, and Berdis. Even through your initial research it was hard to nail down exact details like birthdays, and you say Berdis’s name wasn’t even listed in the US. Census. For those who are unaware, can you outline why this Is so important to explore this history and how it better informs us today?
The research process was really difficult, and I'd like to point out that this was also the subject of my PhD dissertation, so this is completely original research.
I needed to dig for every single detail that I uncovered, and even if I found a small nugget of information, I needed to push further to understand the context behind it.
Also, I needed to remember that a lot of what I was finding had been filtered via men, typically white men, who recounted these stories quite differently from how I would. So it was highly complicated, requiring a variety of procedures such as contacting local historians, searching census data, locating land deed, birth certificates, death certificates, and interviewing family members. I'm doing my best to fill in the blanks with information from documents I discover. But it is a reminder to us, first and foremost, of how we value various lives in different ways.
I like to speak about each of our lives as if they are puzzles, and certain puzzles we put together, frame, and hang, either on a mantel or on a wall, to treasure, marvel at, celebrate, and honor.
Then there are the puzzles that we just leave on the ground; every time we move, we leave some pieces in one house, we may throw them away, or the dog may chew on them; no one is ensuring that we retain this information, notice it, or care about it. So I was there, putting the puzzle pieces together.
What I believe is important is that we do this for more people; each story does matter, especially when we see how black women have contributed everything they could to the progression of this nation.
Unfortunately, we continue to disregard their lives, saying, your history doesn't matter, your contributions don't matter. As a result, we've arrived at a point where we don't understand what's going on in our country. We believe that all of these instances of sexism and racism, the intersectionality of the two, as well as the many other isms with which it intersects, occur at random or independently of one another, rather than as a product of years and years of devaluing lives.It's done through systems, regulations, and extremely strategic tactics to eliminate people in order to keep those puzzle parts scattered and concealed. So I simply want more of us to take on that project. I don't want this to be the only book about the three of them. I was declaring that they are worthy of study, worthy of celebration, and worthy of being on the cover of a book. Because what they deserve, in my opinion, was to be seen, celebrated, and honored.
Speaking especially of Alberta, Louise, and Berdis' stories, what surprised you when writing your book, and what was left out of their history?
When I first came up with the idea, I merely wanted to recognize them as individuals with their own interesting lives. I knew they'd be not just intriguing, but also valuable to our society in the ways they were generating life beyond their children through activism and creativity. I wasn't trying to argue that since Alberta [King] did this, Martin [Luther King] did this—I wasn't trying to emphasize the sons in that way. But every piece of information madethe relationship and connections so evident, they’re undeniable.Even if I didn't tell you their names and only described the women based on their passions and approach to fighting for freedom, you'd be able to connect them with their sons. Even if you only know a little bit about the sons.Those are the instances where it's surprising we didn't already know their names.
Moms affect their children in a variety of ways, and you can't dispute it in these three cases.
Because you almost had to work at separating them, it made the erasure even more infuriating. You must purposefully leave out the fact that they are linked. During the course of writing this book, I discovered that the sons did give credit to their mothers. So it's not really their fault; rather, it's those of us who have researched them and determined that they don't fit our racist patriarchal view of who matters. Those who have said, we'll leave that as a footnote but we're not going to center it in the way you believe it should be centered in the record.
You talk about how the media played a role in the erasure of these women’s stories, which essentially shaped what the narratives would become. How does this affect those that are intentionally being erased?
This is a fantastic segue for me to speak about my TED talk, because it's all about storytelling and how we follow the stories that we’re told and how our policy reflects that. In the TED talk, I address the way we talk about moms in the stories we share, not only on an interpersonal level, but in media and in literature. We thank moms for being selfless and putting everyone else's needs ahead of their own.
Moms themselves then believe they should be individuals who don't have their own needs and don't have their own identities.
That can be excruciatingly painful, frustrating, and confusing. It also expands on the stories we're telling in the media that don't highlight the contributions of mothers. We as a society believe that mothers are exclusively important in the domestic sphere, or we take those contributions for granted, or employers will try to fire mothers because they believe they are distracted, even though there is no evidence to support this.Then we see that when it comes to voting for policies that could actually help moms and provide them the support and resources they need for their important job, we can't get them passed because people don't seem to believe they're required. So, if you don't believe the role is important, or that it is easy, you're not going to vote for things like parental leave.We live in a country that does not value motherhood; we do not have affordable childcare, universal preschool, or even universal health care, all of which overlap with the role of motherhood. During the pandemic, we saw many women, particularly moms of color, leave their work because they had no other option. I do believe that a lot of that stems from our cultural understanding of motherhood; if more of us understood the essential nature of the job, stay-at-home moms, for example, what they do for all of us, not just for their children, but for all of us day in and day out, it would be easy for us to say, "Yeah, let's vote for those things. We need that," so I want us to see more stories that represent mothers accurately and their role more appropriately.
Out of curiosity, are you aware of any other cultures outside of America that properly values motherhood?
We've seen these rankings in terms of maternal health and motherhood happiness in the United States, which is really low when compared to other countries. We have a maternal health problem that is disproportionately affecting black women and women of color, but it also affects all women; women are dying at higher rates in this country. That is something that we should all be very concerned about.
Mothers are reporting higher levels of postpartum depression, they're burning out, they're exhausted.
They feel like there's something wrong with them, because they've been told they're supposed to take care of all of this, and then not be thanked for it. As if it's okay to be invisible.Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, for example, have models and policies that we may replicate in the United States. Scandinavia has a more homogeneous culture than the United States; we have a lot more diversity here. However, this does not preclude the adoption of universal parental leave or the distribution of baby boxes in the United States. In Sweden, for example, parents receive a package including the fundamental necessities that they will require when raising a child. That is something we could do in the United States. We could create daycare centers in companies so that if parents do return to work outside the home, they may bring their children with them to the same location, which would increase production for the entire company.
There are many bits and pieces and policies from other countries that I believe we can still apply to the United States, despite the fact that our population is considerably more diverse than that of most other countries.
What organizations would you include now in your own giving portfolio for advocacy work, particularly around motherhood?
The first one I think of is Black Mama's Matter. In the United States, black women, particularly black moms, are still considered as less than human beings. Their effort to build this alliance of people with diverse knowledge, backgrounds, and experiences to address the core causes of black maternal health and the black mother’s experience in the United States is critical.
I wanted to write about black mothers because the dehumanization is evident when you look at the relationship between our country and black mothers in the United States – mothers being refused basic treatment, denied human respect, and being treated with a lack of basic decency.
I also really love the work of the Young Women's Freedom Center. It's in San Francisco, and it works with women who have been impacted by various systems, such as incarceration or juvie. All of these other things that have locked our young women of color away and then blamed them for their experiences, rather than the systems that have pushed them to the margins and forgotten about them and tried to ignore them. Through working with the center, they can reclaim their identity and use their voice.Essie Justice Group is another. It is led by a friend of mine. We see that the cost of having a loved one in prison is quite high, and black women are spending a lot of their money paying into this mass incarceration system in the United States. Instead of addressing the various issues that lead to them being taken away and locked up, we continue to place that burden on the shoulders of black women. So anything that relieves that weight, anything that reminds us that this isn't just a black woman's problem to fix, but that it will affect our entire nation is work that I support and a message that I try to elevate.
If we can come together and really focus on the experience of black women, it will be beneficial to us all.
All of those organizations sound incredible. What is your process of finding which organizations to support around a cause?
I like to begin by asking why we want to talk about black women, and by discussing the legislation that has existed from the beginning of slavery and states that black women are the producers of property rather than the producers of life. It is important to understand that from the start, the idea that a black person's life begins as property is key to understanding the ills of our nation.That is what we want to examine, as well as how this concept about the life of a black person has permeated so many different systems. Then we'd want to know who the organizations are that are dealing with those various systems. So whether that's through tackling mass incarceration – which continues to say that these people are objects and not people, and we can control their lives and their lives matter less than other people's lives – or through thinking about the American gynecological system, and how it's based on experimenting on the bodies of enslaved black women.I’d ask: How is all that still playing out today? Who are the organizations that recognize black women as having been viewed as less than human? What are they doing now to fight for humanity? That's how I'd organize a portfolio.
For our last question, what advice would you give to someone who wishes to be a true ally, especially after reading your book?
That's a great question. When the topic of allyship comes up, I remember my mother, a white woman with black children.
She would approach me and say, "In this world, I have no idea what it's like to be a black girl or a black woman. And I'm not going to pretend I know; I'm not going to claim to understand your experiences. But what I can say is that I believe you are worthy of the same respect and dignity that everyone else is, and I will walk with you, learn with you, and do my best to make this world a better place for you."
I'm paraphrasing; these are not exact words; they are a compilation of lessons learned throughout the last 29 years of my life. But this was her general approach to things, and that's exactly what we're looking for in allies.We're not expecting somebody to say, "I know what it's like to be a black woman," because that's not the correct thing to say. Don't say anything like that. It's fine to recognize that your and mine experiences will differ in this regard. You may say "I feel you are entitled to be regarded as a human being and to have access to the same resources as I do. And I will do my part to help with that. And I will walk beside you and learn alongside you. And it shouldn't be much more complicated than that as a result of that mindset, there will be sacrifices. And I'm not going to pretend that I understand what it's like to be you." I believe it is an accurate summary. And perhaps, more individuals will feel at ease embracing that charge.
Night of the Living DAF: How Groundswell is Raising Zombie Philanthropy From the Dead
No one likes zombies. They’re noisy. They’re disgusting. Worst of all, they try to eat your brain.But perhaps the spookiest thing about them? They’re mindless. Zombies are automatons who amble along without thinking. Left to their own devices, they would go on like that, mindlessly, forever. Never changing, never helping, never improving.It is this critique of the undead that gets levelled at a form of charity dubbed zombie philanthropy. In this critique, the drivers of zombie philanthropy are Donor-Advised Funds (DAF)s. To quote The Washington Post:This is problematic. We’re in a world where there is no time to waste. There are too many crises facing our country and global community and it serves no one to have money sitting on the sidelines. At Groundswell we’re going to change that by building a platform that will better facilitate these funds and empower donors to make an impact quickly.
WTF is a DAF and who contributes to them?!
A Donor Advised Fund allows donors to put all of their charitable dollars into one single fund, receive an immediate tax deduction, grow those assets over time, and distribute assets to nonprofits of their choice at any given time. It was established in the 1930’s to handle charitable donor-advised fund contributions on behalf of organizations, private individuals, and families. Since then, DAFs have been primarily utilized by the ultra-wealthy. According to the 2020 Donor-Advised Fund Report, grants to qualified organizations from DAF accounts totaled $27.37 billion in 2019, up 15.4% from $23.72 billion in 2018. But considering there are over $140 billion in total assets squirreled away in DAFs, $27 billion is merely a fraction of the impact potential they represent.
Why Do DAFs (Sometimes) Become Zombies?
Donor Advised Funds are popular due to their ease of use. Donors typically struggle with deciding where to direct their philanthropic contributions, especially when large sums of low-value assets are contributed. Managing several beneficiaries while meeting a deadline might be difficult. As a result, one-stop-shop giving simplifies the philanthropic process.Why have DAFs become the target of “zombie philanthropy” accusations? The critiques typically go like this:
- Unlike with private foundations, there is no requirement for minimum distributions from Donor Advised Funds. As a result, investors routinely deposit significant amounts of equity or cash in those accounts with no need to distribute them right away. This means that a DAF’s capital can sit static for years or decades, and never actually reach a nonprofit.
- This is particularly worrisome at a time when nonprofits need funds urgently, not in a distant future.
- Some individuals use DAFs primarily for income tax reductions, balancing their tax bill with their giving, so that the upside, like capital gains, is neutralized. Others use DAFs to pass on money to their offspring, once again with minimal taxes.
With DAFs, people can sidestep learning about the best causes in place of simply dumping the money in a pot on the advice of someone else.We recognize these critiques. Any tax instrument can be manipulated depending on a user’s intentions (we’re looking at you, Peter Thiel). However, we don’t believe DAFs are inherently evil and are instead breathing new life into the zombie philanthropy model.Groundswell reaps the benefits of DAFs without the downsides. And we believe that this approach can be scaled to reach any prospective donor, not just the ultra-rich.
How Groundswell is Raising Zombie Philanthropy From the Dead
Groundswell is built differently.Legacy DAF providers also happen to be massive asset managers. No wonder their platforms are designed to keep money in the DAF, and not move it out to charity. In fact, it’s in their best interest for it to play out that way.However, Groundswell is built to move money as efficiently as possible out of the system and into the hands of charities.The objectives of our platform are aligned directly with the goals of charities – including the goal of disbursing as much money as possible into the community. That’s probably because we were founded by a former nonprofit executive, a key difference in Groundswell vs. the competition.We have no beef with DAFs and not every DAF fund is a zombie. The fact is, when funds are transferred to a DAF, they will eventually finance a program sponsored by the donor, though it may be slow and delayed funding means delayed impact.As we already mentioned, we believe that Donor Advised Funds are not inherently evil – even if they are exploited by a large number of ultra-wealthy individuals and fail to generate as much good as intended. In principle, DAFs can be powerful but, like everything else, they must evolve.That’s why Groundswell is supportive of recent talks aimed at reforming Donor Advised Funds to include, among other things, a minimum annual distribution. DAFs, built and leveraged appropriately, can bring massive efficiencies to the nonprofit sector and the giving of ordinary Americans.So instead of allowing these legacy Donor Advised Funds to shuffle around mindlessly like zombies, let's build an alternative like Groundswell that breathes life back into the Donor Advised Fund and democratizes philanthropy for the 99%.
12 Employee Benefits Survey Questions Modern Companies Should Ask
In today's business environment, having the right and highest performing talent is more critical than ever. With benefits packages playing a vital role in these decisions, how can companies truly gauge their effectiveness? By initiating regular employee benefits surveys.
Scroll down for a free survey template below.
Let's dive in to the importance of asking the following questions.
Is our workforce satisfied with the current employee benefits package?
Gaining insights from "how satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?" can offer companies a quick pulse on the effectiveness of their benefits. A dip in satisfaction might signal a need for re-evaluation, especially if you're looking to maximize your budget.
How comprehensive are the employee benefits we offer?
Do employees feel that the organization covers a wide range of their needs? Asking, "do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?" can shed light on any potential gaps in coverage.
Are we showing true commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion through our benefits?
Are the company's efforts in promoting DE&I resonating? This can be gauged by asking if the benefits genuinely support diversity and inclusion. If they aren't, here's an opportunity to collect ideas directly from your employees.
Read more about how to make sure your giving program is equitable and inclusive.
Do our benefits reflect our company culture and values?
The question, "do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?" will highlight any potential discrepancies in practicing what you're preaching.
Did you know? Two-thirds of employees say it’s important for a company to align to their values.
Are we catering to the needs of a remote or multi-location workforce?
With remote work on the rise, is the company adapting its benefits accordingly? It's essential to find out if employees feel supported, regardless of their work setting.
Would employees recommend the company based on our benefits?
This is an easy one to skip, but it's a great question to ask. See how influential your benefits package is for employee referrals. Determining if employees would advocate for the company based on its benefits can be a key metric for recruitment.
How do specific benefit categories fare?
By querying satisfaction levels across various benefits – physical health, social impact, mental health, financial health, and fringe benefits – can companies discern which areas are thriving and which need enhancement?
What additional benefits do employees desire?
Is there a particular benefit that could make a difference in employee satisfaction and retention? Discovering this can be as straightforward as asking, "if you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?"
If your workforce desires a more meaningful benefit, see why decentralizing your corporate philanthropy strategy can achieve greater impact at scale.
How often should I send an employee survey about our benefits?
While every business has their own set of unique needs, conducing a quarterly employee survey at minimum can help you get a pulse check.
There will be some natural and unplanned peaks in valleys throughout the year that can drastically affect employee morale and company culture. By proactively seeking feedback through surveys, companies can foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring they remain at the forefront of employee satisfaction.
What are some affordable benefit options we can provide employees?
Corporate matching or giving programs can be a low-cost addition to your benefit offering that supports your employees’ unique passions and perspectives through charitable giving and boosts your company’s commitment to social impact. Groundswell offers a comprehensive solution with a simple implementation and nearly zero administration burden.
- How satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?
- Do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion?
- Do you feel our benefits package supports our remote or multi-location workforce?
- How likely are you to recommend applying based on our benefits package?
- How satisfied are you with our physical health benefits (i.e. health care, sick leave, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our social impact benefits (i.e. corporate matching, volunteering, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our mental health benefits (i.e. vacation time, EAP, etc)?
- How satisfied are you with our financial health benefits? (i.e. retirement, student loan assistance, etc)
- How satisfied are you with our fringe benefits and perks? (i.e. fitness subsidies, stipends, etc)
- If you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?
The Guide to Being a Modern Philanthropist: Elevate Your Impact With Groundswell
This guide is intended to provide resources and inspiration for Groundswell users on how to donate to causes they care about. It provides tips to best identify and donate to charities that have a proven track record of impact. It also discusses how to think about geography and size when deciding where to donate, and explains the ways in which even small, recurring donations can have be powerful for charities working on the frontlines every day.
Groundswell can be your partner in your journey as a modern philanthropist. Your donations are a critical part of addressing society's myriad issues, such as poverty, education, healthcare, and environmental concerns. And giving to others is also good for you. It has been shown that people who donate to charity experience increased happiness and well-being compared to those who do not give. This sense of satisfaction comes from the knowledge that your actions are making a positive impact on the world and helping those in need.
Through Groundswell, you can easily add funds to your account, browse or search for charities, and donate in a matter of minutes. In this guide, we help demystify some of the questions you might have as you consider where, when and how to donate.
Six Tips to Becoming a Modern Philanthropist
Summary
- Pick causes and charities that align with your values: When deciding what you want to support, start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most.
- Understand impact through the lens of size & geography: The geographic reach of different charities' programs, and how large or small they are, can help as you determine what to support.
- Evaluate best in class charities: Learn how to assess not only the financial health of an organization, but also what questions to ask when looking at other impact metrics.
- Set a giving goal: Decide how much you want to give annually through Groundswell, and follow the simple steps to set up contributions to achieve that goal.
- Maximize impact through recurring donations: Simplify your giving and provide nonprofits with a steady stream of revenue through monthly, recurring donations.
- Optimize your giving through tax-efficient strategies: Leverage the versatility of Groundswell to reduce your tax burden through payroll giving, stocks contributions, and bunching.
1. Pick Causes & Charities that Align with Your Values
Your giving journey often is deeply personal, rooted in your own values and lived experiences. When deciding what causes you want to support, it’s important to start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most. Who or what do you want to impact? What cause is most aligned with that? Use that as a starting point to then find the charities best positioned to have an impact on what you care most about. Focusing on specific cause areas allows you to be more intentional about how you donate.
There are thousands of causes and more than a million nonprofits on the Groundswell platform that tackle challenges from all angles, from improving K-12 education or finding a cure for Alzheimer’s to reducing plastics in the ocean or protecting women’s rights.
After determining what causes matter most to you, it’s also helpful to identify the type of impact you are seeking to make. Are you interested in supporting organizations that are “on the ground” providing direct services or those doing longer-term, important policy and research work? That can help guide you in picking the charities that you want to donate to.
2. Understand Impact: Size & Geography
Where to donate
When deciding where to donate, it’s also important to determine where you want that impact to happen. For many people, where they give is closely linked to where they live – their local food pantry, homeless shelter, house of worship, or neighborhood school.
Others may want to focus their giving beyond where they live and donate to organizations that operate in certain regions or even other countries. There’s no ‘right’ answer - and many people choose to donate both locally and globally to a cause they care about. For example, you may want to support an organization that is both on the frontlines supporting refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, as well as helping resettle refugee families near your town in the U.S.
Does size matter?
Similarly, there is no right answer for what size organization is best to donate to. Whether they are large or small, if they have a strong track record of impact and do not have a pattern of mismanagement of funds, they are worthy recipients of donations.
Many people want to donate to organizations that have a proven track record of implementing large-scale programs, or are on a strong growth trajectory, year over year. Larger organizations generally have shown their ability to receive larger amounts of funding, and in turn design and implement programs at a scale that have a greater impact towards the causes you care about most. But small organizations can also be extremely impactful - even if the radius or scope of impact is smaller. Although many of today’s social and environmental problems are massive in scale, the vast majority of nonprofits are tiny; indeed, most nonprofits in the United States are small, grassroots organizations - and 20% have annual budgets of less than $50,000. For smaller nonprofits, even the smallest donation on an annual or monthly, recurring basis can have a huge impact on their ability to sustain programs or even expand.
3. Evaluate "Best in Class" Charities
There are multiple ways to assess the quality of a charity; many ratings sites focus primarily on financial metrics, but it is equally important to assess not only how an organization is managing its funds, but also the quality of its work. And while a rating system like Charity Navigator can be helpful, it is important to know that no rating system is comprehensive. Groundswell offers an important starting point - we only feature organizations that are in good standing with the IRS and eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.
- Programmatic Impact: Understanding a nonprofit’s impact - through its programs and the populations that it serves - is an important way to evaluate its effectiveness in tackling the causes you care about. Many nonprofits provide details about programming approaches on their websites, including testimonials, photos, and reports detailing specific results. Keep in mind that understanding and assessing impact is highly qualitative - there is no clear ‘score’ - especially because what or who is being impacted varies across the thousands of nonprofits.
- Financial Management: Nonprofits, especially larger ones, are required to disclose details related to their financial performance annually – to include assets, revenue and breakdown of expenses in forms submitted to the IRS. Many nonprofits are proactively transparent about their finances and post audited financial statements and other reports on their websites. But financial data does not always tell a complete story. There may be important investments in fundraising staff, which two years later yield a windfall in donations that can be put towards programs.
- Advisories: Sometimes there are advisories based on pending or ongoing legal action. Groundswell works to monitor these advisories and remove any charities that it believes are acting improperly or mismanaging donor funds. We also remove any charities that have had their nonprofit status revoked by the IRS.
- Groundswell-curated Featured Causes: While many donors might want to do their own research, sometimes it’s far easier (and efficient) to put your trust in others. Groundswell’s impact team provides donors with additional inspiration, and has done the vetting work to determine cause-specific organizations that are well run and most importantly having a strong impact.
4. Aim High with a Giving Goal
You can use Groundswell’s calculator found under your Profile to set or edit your annual giving goal. This can be a flat amount, or a percentage of your annual salary. While estimates vary, a common range for giving as a percentage of annual salary is between 2-6%.
The good news is that with your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, you can easily set up recurring contributions to stay on track to meet your goals. It’s also important to maximize the matching offered by your company’s giving program, where applicable.
Your giving goal can help fund recurring donations, as well as account for unexpected events that you may want to donate to.
5. Level Up with Recurring Donations
Recurring donations can be a great component of your philanthropic strategy. As a bonus, there are benefits for both donors as well as nonprofits.
For donors, setting recurring donations to autopilot every month or quarter means you don’t have to think about it or go through the steps to do it on a regular basis.
Put simply, it’s a smart use of your time. It is also a symbol of a donor’s commitment to a cause, and a belief in the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact - not just in a moment of crisis, but on a continuous basis. Groundswell’s recurring contributions and donations features help facilitate recurring giving.
For charities, recurring donations provide a steady, predictable stream of revenue that helps with budget planning. For many organizations, large or small, recurring donations can have a huge impact. Similar to the trends in grassroots political fundraising, having many small-dollar donors is good for nonprofits.
It helps them build awareness and shows to the larger-dollar donors that there is a community that believes in the nonprofit’s mission. It also helps de-risk; nonprofits with one or two large donors and very few small-dollar donors can run into major problems if any of those large donors stop supporting their work.
6. Optimize Your Tax-Efficient Giving
You can leverage the versatility of your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, which is underpinned by a Donor-Advised Fund, to be strategic and reduce your tax burden.
Donate appreciated stock
If you have appreciated stocks that you've held for more than a year and you donate them through your Groundswell account, you won't have to pay capital gains tax on the appreciation when those shares are exchanged for their market value.
Plus, you'll be eligible for a tax deduction for the full fair market value of the stock at the time of contribution into your Groundswell account.
Give with payroll
You can leverage Groundswell’s Payroll feature to make giving more tax efficient. Contributions to Groundswell through payroll deductions are eligible for an immediate tax deduction for the amount contributed. This means that your taxable income for the year is reduced by the amount of your contribution. Contributing on a recurring basis via payroll also makes it easier to “set and forget” and achieve your giving goals more efficiently.
Bundle contributions
You can also take advantage of the Donor-Advised Fund structure of Groundswell to make a larger contribution in a single tax year and maximize tax benefits by itemizing deductions in the year that the larger contribution is being made - commonly known as “bunching.”
For example, if you typically give $5,000 to charity each year but decide to give $25,000 to your Groundswell account in one year, you can itemize your deductions that year and take the standard deduction in the following years. By doing so, you may be able to minimize your tax burden over time while still supporting the charities you care about.
Want access to other toolkits like this?
Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.
Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.
Unleash the Power of Your Employee Giving Program: Best Practices Guide
Your Best Practices Guide for Maximizing Your Employee Giving Participation
This guide provides you with tools and tips to maximize employee participation in your giving program, not just when the program launches but throughout the entire year.
Leveraging our expertise in the social impact and nonprofit sectors, Groundswell is here to support you and your employees on your impact journey.
Overview
Employee giving programs can be a great way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, engage employees, and make a positive impact on the community. But too often, employees don’t take full advantage of the opportunities provided through their giving programs, leaving billions of funds unmatched every year. For some, this is due to either a lack of awareness about their company's giving program, or for others because an unwieldy donation portal and match process that leaves employees frustrated. Groundswell's technology brings corporate giving into the 21st century and unleashes the modern philanthropist in all of your employees.
Whether your goal is to grow the percentage of employees participating in your giving program, increase the amount of funds going to nonprofits, or to better understand the causes that matter most to your employees, these best practices can help you achieve those goals.
By reducing the administrative burden required to launch and implement a Giving Program, Groundswell frees you up to focus on what matters most: inspiring your employees and having a positive impact on the world through your company’s support for charitable causes.
6 Tips for Maximizing Participation in Your Employee Giving Program
1. Communicate Early and with Intention
Communication is a critical component of any successful giving program. We want you to have the tools to effectively share program details and encourage participation - whether launching a new employee giving program or transitioning from an existing one.
The key is to help employees understand why and how Groundswell fits into your company’s broader vision around corporate citizenship and employee engagement - and build enthusiasm around the potential to collectively have a positive impact on the world through donations to charities.
Program Launch Communications:
Here are some ways to think about the program launch. Depending on whether this is a new program or transitioning from an existing one, your adoption plan may change. You don’t want to inundate employees with too much information, while also providing them with the resources they need to successfully enroll in the program and easily engage on the platform.
- Keep it short, and emphasize that the intent is to center employees in corporate philanthropy and make it as easy as possible for employees to give.
- If the Giving Program is new: Why now? How does it align with your company’s values? Why is Groundswell a good fit for the company?
- If the program is replacing an existing program: Why now? What’s different (and better) from the previous program? New matching or gifting features? It may also be helpful to highlight the tax effectiveness of the donor-advised fund model.
Monthly Program Communications
In order to encourage ongoing participation in your program, and for employees to take advantage of the gifts and matches offered by your company, we encourage monthly nudges to remind employees about the program.
Monthly Cause Spotlights
- Start off the month by highlighting some timely causes - make sure to link to Groundswell-curated “Featured Cause” Portfolios that Groundswell uploads to the dashboard every month for a hand-off approach to spotlighting.
- Share “Cause of the Month” information with employees, leveraging the toolkits found in Groundswell’s Resource Center.
Engagement & Impact Reporting
- Utilize the data that you can find on your company Dashboard or download via CSV to highlight some of your company’s collective impact - including a percentage of employees enrolled, the total dollar amount that has been donated, as well as top nonprofit donation recipients and/or cause areas.
- This helps employees see how their individual donations are having a larger impact as part of your company’s collective giving program.
2. Drive Early Adoption through Gifts
Gifts can be a terrific way to get employees to sign up and start using the Groundswell platform immediately. Here are a few tips on how to drive early adoption using the Gifting feature:
- Launch with a one-time gift into employees’ Giving Accounts that will show up as soon as employees enroll. This can be a great way to create buzz about the program and empower employees to donate and make an impact immediately - even before they contribute their own funds to their Groundswell account.
- Throughout the year, provide unexpected, ad hoc gifts into employees’ accounts - for work anniversaries, milestones, great performance, etc.
- A way to make it fun is to do a lottery at All Hands meetings by randomly selecting an employee to receive $25 in their Groundswell account. Follow this link or reach out to the Groundswell Customer Success team to learn more.
3. Inspire Engagement through Matching
- Set up a matching program that immediately doubles the impact when an employee puts funds into their Groundswell Giving Account. This creates a feeling of “we’re in this together” - and drives home the message about an equitable approach to corporate philanthropy.
- A match program can run for an entire year, or be tailored to specific months.
- With the Groundswell match happening at the point of contributing funds to the Groundswell account, employees can tangibly see and feel what it means to double the impact for the charities and causes that matter most to them.
4. Leverage Cause Campaigns & Respond to the Emergent Events
Planned Campaigns:
- Utilize a Social Impact Cause Calendar to plan monthly or bi-monthly communications to employees highlighting specific causes - with resources to educate employees about the cause, and a curated list of nonprofits most relevant to the cause. You can refer to Groundswell’s monthly cause portfolios that are updated to reflect timely causes and issues.
- Tip: Plan your annual budget to launch match campaigns focused on specific charities or cause areas throughout the year.
Unforeseen Events:
- Utilize Groundswell’s curated list of best-in-class nonprofits responding to disasters in the United States or globally. Being able to quickly and confidently point your employees to vetted nonprofits to donate to shows that you are responsive as a company and empowering employees to take action in moments of crisis.
- Tip: Keep a portion of your annual budget in reserve so that you can match employee donations and/or provide gifts to employees to expand the impact in response to the unforeseen emergency.
5. Engage Employee Resource Groups
Another mechanism to center employees in corporate philanthropy and recognize their own lived experiences: provide Employee Resource Groups (ERG) a platform to speak to key cause areas (e.g. AAPI Awareness, Black History Month, etc).
- ERGs can take the opportunity to recommend nonprofits that they think are most effective and related to the cause, and share their commitment to specific causes with the tag-line “My cause is ____ “
- Tip: Solicit recommendations from the Employee Resource Group for books to read, films, and documentaries to watch, and podcasts to listen to. This can generate a deeper understanding of causes and lead to engagement via donations to support the causes.
6. Lean Into End-of-Year Giving Spirit
30% of annual giving happens in December, with about 10% of all annual donations coming in the last three days of the year. For nonprofits, this can be a critical time to raise funds and prepare programming budgets for the next year.
You can leverage Groundswell's Giving Tuesday resources to launch an end-of-year donation campaign, featuring specific cause areas and nonprofits.
Tip: Set a budget aside for a surprise end-of-year gift - leveraging the fact that a large percentage of people prefer to donate at the end of the year.
Read related articles
- Is Your Donation Matching Program Inclusive and Equitable?
- The Workplace Giving Handbook: Everything You Need to Know
- 8 Workplace Giving Trends and How to Use Them
Groundswell is your ally in corporate philanthropy.
Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.
Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.
Complete Handbook to Corporate Grants
Corporate grants are financial support provided by a business to a nonprofit organization, educational institution, or another type of community group.
These grants can be used to fund a wide range of projects, including programs and initiatives that align with the values and mission of the funding organization.
In this ultimate guide, we will explore the various types of corporate grants available, how to find and apply for these grants, and tips for success in securing funding.
Types of Corporate Grants
There are several types of corporate grants that organizations can apply for, depending on their needs and the focus of the funding organization. Some common types of corporate grants include:
General Operating Support: These grants provide funding for the general operations and administration of an organization, including salaries, rent, and other overhead costs.
Project-Specific Grants: These grants are provided to fund a specific project or initiative, such as a research project, community development program, or arts and culture event.
Capital Grants: These grants are provided to fund the purchase of long-term assets, such as equipment, real estate, or vehicles.
Sponsorship Grants: These grants provide financial support for a specific event or activity, such as a charity fundraiser or sporting event.
Matching Grants: These grants require the recipient organization raises a certain amount of funds on their own, which is then matched by the funding organization.
How to Find Corporate Grants
There are a few different ways to find corporate grants that may be a good fit for your organization. Here are some tips:
Research funding organizations: Many businesses have corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that provide grants to nonprofit organizations. Research the CSR programs of businesses in your industry or local area to see if they offer grants.
Use grant databases: There are many online databases that list corporate grants, such as Grants.gov and the Candid, formally known as Foundation Center. These databases allow you to search for grants based on your organization's location, mission, and area of focus.
Join grant-seeking networks: There are many online networks and forums for grant seekers, such as Candid, formally known as GrantSpace, and the Grant Professionals Association. These communities can be a valuable resource for finding corporate grants and learning about the grant-seeking process.
How to Apply for Corporate Grants
Once you have identified a corporate grant that is a good fit for your organization, the next step is to prepare and submit a grant proposal. Here are some tips for success:
Follow the application instructions carefully: Each grant program will have its own application requirements and guidelines, so it is important to follow these instructions carefully. Be sure to complete all required forms and provide any supporting documents that are requested.
Clearly articulate your needs and objectives: In your grant proposal, be sure to clearly explain your organization's needs and the specific objectives that you hope to achieve with the funding. Use specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to demonstrate the impact that the grant will have.
Demonstrate your organization's capacity to deliver: In addition to outlining your needs and objectives, it is important to demonstrate your organization's capacity to deliver on its proposed project or initiative. This may include information about your staff, volunteers, resources, and past successes.
Proofread and edit: A well-written and well-organized grant proposal is more likely to be successful. Be sure to proofread your proposal carefully and have at least one other person review it before submitting it.
Tips for Success in Securing Corporate Grants
Start early: Many corporate grant programs have deadlines that are several months in advance of the funding period. It is important to start researching and preparing your grant proposal as early as possible to allow sufficient time for revisions and any additional information that may be requested by the funding organization.
Build relationships with funders: Building relationships with potential funders can be a valuable asset in the grant-seeking process. Attend events and networking opportunities where you can meet with representatives from funding organizations, and consider reaching out to them directly to introduce your organization and its work.
Be persistent: Securing corporate grants can be competitive, and it is not uncommon to be rejected on the first try. Don't be discouraged by rejection – use it as an opportunity to learn and improve your grant proposal for the next round of funding.
In conclusion, corporate grants can be a valuable source of funding for nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community groups. By researching and identifying appropriate grant programs, preparing a strong grant proposal, and building relationships with potential funders, your organization can increase its chances of success in securing corporate grants.
More about Groundswell
Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.
Subscribe to our newsletter and reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io.
The Workplace Giving Handbook: Everything You Need to Know
Workplace giving programs offer employees an important benefit.
It gives employees a way to support the causes they care about and trust that their support is actually doing good in the world.
It's not news that people are skeptical of corporate charity — it's why words like pink-washing and greenwashing have entered the public vocabulary. Workplace giving programs offer a way to combat that skepticism and give employees a reason to feel good about the places where they work.
But what exactly is workplace giving, and how do you set up an employee-powered giving program at your company?
What is Workplace Giving?
Workplace giving is any organized program that collects employee donations for charitable causes through payroll deductions and/or one-time donations. The company then disburses those donations to nonprofits.
Over the years, the term has evolved to include volunteer giving programs, and other forms of employee giving programs. These giving programs take many forms today, including payroll deductions, donation match programs, and volunteer giving programs.
Matching Gift Programs
Donation match programs are among the most popular types of workplace giving programs, offered at nearly 65% of Fortune 500 companies, and accounting for $2 billion to $3 billion in donations annually.
The concept is simple in theory: an employee donates to a qualified nonprofit, and the company then makes a matching donation to the same nonprofit.
In practice, matching gift programs can be cumbersome and difficult to manage. In fact, for every dollar donated through matching gift programs, more than $2 goes unclaimed.
Volunteer Programs
In addition to typical volunteer programs — serving dinners at a local shelter or reading to school kids, for example — many companies create or participate in volunteer fundraising events, such as walk-a-thons or charity 5k runs.
Employees participate as a team, and the money raised is donated to the specific non-profit named. These campaigns can be great for team building and bonding, not to mention providing high-profile PR opportunities for the company.
Volunteer Grants
Many companies offer grants to organizations where their employees volunteer. This kind of program ensures that the company is helping to support genuine community organizations that their employees care about. They help deepen the ties between the company and the community and send the message to your employees that you care about the things that are important to them.
Volunteer Hours Matching
The third iteration of volunteer donation programs rewards your employees with the extra cash they can donate to others based on hours that they spend volunteering with community organizations.
Giving employees paid time off for volunteering can make it difficult for workers to keep up with their workload and make more work for nonprofits. Some companies have found ways to reimburse employees for their time working in their communities.
One way is to deposit the equivalent of their salary for hours spent into a Groundswell Personal Giving Account. From there, the employee can direct the donation to their chosen cause, effectively doubling their impact on the ground.
Donations Through Payroll Deduction
Many companies offer employees the opportunity to make giving easy by enrolling in an automatic payroll deduction for a chosen charity. Payroll deductions allow employees to essentially budget their charitable contributions over the course of the year.
However, the choice of charities to support is usually very narrow — often only one or two charities are chosen by the board.
A growing number of CEOs are moving away from the top-down approach to corporate giving, and moving to a model that puts the choice in the hands of their employees.
What Is a Workplace Giving Campaign?
Workplace giving campaigns are typically annual events companies hold to encourage employee donations to a cause.
They're often held in the fall, to coordinate with the holiday season — and of course, the end of the tax year. They can, however, take place at any time. Their purpose is to publicize and raise awareness of any company-sponsored employee giving programs, and get more people involved in them.
Campaigns may also revolve around a specific need or event. These campaigns include disaster relief campaigns, or campaigns to support specific needs in the local community — supporting the unhoused, or providing funds for meals during a pandemic, for example.
How Does Workplace Giving Work?
The nuts and bolts of employee giving programs are rapidly evolving. Legacy workplace giving programs collected donations from employees then combined them and funneled them to one or two charities chosen by the board of directors or the CEO. Historically, there are two major models for doing this.
Payroll Deduction
Programs that collect charitable donations through payroll deductions are the most common workplace giving programs, accounting for nearly 75% of all employee giving annually. Payroll deductions make charitable giving easy on employees — they fill out a payroll deduction form once, and HR/Payroll does the rest. It's so easy, in fact, that when Google implemented a pilot payroll giving program, it increased the likelihood of donations to a promoted charity by 50% without reducing the average amount donated.
In addition, each participating employee has a running record of their deductions on their pay stub, with the current and year-to-date donations recorded. That's a big boon at tax time — their pay stub serves as proof of their donation, so they don't have to scrounge around looking for acknowledgment letters from the nonprofits they donate to.
Nonprofits also benefit from this type of workplace giving program in several ways: they get predictable, sustainable donations, and often get more donations. Just as important, a payroll deduction model reduces the amount of work that falls on their shoulders by transferring much of it to the company's payroll department. Managing a workplace giving campaign is a complex undertaking involving multiple steps and responsibilities.
- The company creates a campaign to engage and encourage employees to sign up for the giving program. This is no small undertaking — entire toolkits are devoted to teaching employees and volunteers to run successful campaigns.
- The employee fills out a pledge card, designating the amount of the donation and/or the amount to be deducted each pay period. If the company allows it, they may also choose one of several pre-approved nonprofits to receive their donation.
- The payroll department — or the company's payroll provider — sets up the recurring deduction for each employee.
- If the company also operates a matching donation program, HR processes all donations to set up the matching donation.
- Each pay period, the payroll department deducts and deposits the funds from each employee into a central account, then sends the final donation amount to the paying agent, such as the United Way.
- The paying agent distributes the funds to the designated organizations.
Donation Matching Programs
Donation match programs can also be time-consuming and difficult to navigate — so much so, that billions of dollars in matching funds go unclaimed every year. A typical donation match program works like this:
- The company determines which organizations will qualify for a matching gift and makes the list of qualifying organizations available to employees, and creates rules to determine the amount of the match. There may be differing amounts depending on the employee's position or other criteria. For example, all full-time employees may qualify for 100% matching, while managers qualify for 200% matching.
- The employee makes a donation to the charity of their choice.
- After determining that their chosen organization qualifies for a match, the employee fills out and submits a request to HR for their employer to match their donation.
- HR processes the request and determines the match amount based on the rules.
- The company sends a check for the matching amount to the qualifying organization.
Emerging Trends in Workplace Giving
Since the early 2000s, there's been a growing movement to allow employees more choices of donors. Many donation match programs, for example, will match employee donations to any 501(c)3 charity. New platforms are streamlining corporate and employee giving, reducing the amount of work and time that goes into managing workplace giving campaigns and employee giving programs in general.
The newest trends in corporate giving include making charitable giving part of the employee's benefits package and providing granular control and choice on when and where to donate their funds.
Advances in technology provided new tools — yes, there's an app for that — to help companies manage and deploy their corporate giving programs in ways that make sense for their workforces. As the workplace and trends in giving continue to evolve, employee giving programs will also evolve to keep pace and provide the most seamless, empowering giving experience.
Benefits of Workplace Giving Programs
Employee giving programs are not just good for the causes that get the donations. They provide important positives for employees, the company, and the community. These are a few of the most important.
- Improved Employee Recruitment: 55% of employees — including 75% of Millennials — would choose to work for a socially responsible company, even if they got paid less.
- Increased Employee Engagement: Employees are more engaged at work when they feel their employer aligns with their values.
- Increased Profitability: Companies with the most engaged workers are 21% more profitable.
- Better Public Image: People think more positively about businesses that give back to the community.
- Deeper Community Connections: A well-planned employee giving program helps the business connect and cement relationships with organizations in the community.
- Increased Employee Loyalty: Employees are more likely to recommend businesses that support them and their interests.
- Higher Retention Rates: Employees who take advantage of employee giving programs stay with the company 75% longer.
What Employees Care About
According to a recent Deloitte Workplace Giving survey, 37% of workers donated to charity through a workplace giving program, but — and this is a big but — when they looked at Millennial and Gen Z employees, that percentage skyrocketed to 58%.
Younger workers, those destined for leadership positions in future companies, care deeply about doing good in the world, and they reflect it in their behavior. They donate because they are connected to a cause or charity, because they want to support their community, and because giving makes them feel good.
When you make it easy for them to plant a tree, buy a kid a desk, or adopt sheltered puppies, your company is showing them that they respect and support the people that they are, not just the work that they do for your business.
Why Is Employee Giving Important?
In addition to the benefits to your employees and your business bottom line, employee giving also brings an immense benefit to the community.
In 2021, workplace giving programs raised more than $5 billion, with about 50% of that coming from matching gift programs. Those donations went to
- Education-related causes: 29%
- Health and wellness causes: 25%
- Community and economic development causes: 15%
Employees who donated through workplace giving programs reported that they donated to
- Hunger and homelessness relief: 47%
- Education: 23%
- Social and racial equity causes: 20%
The right workplace giving program empowers your employees to support the causes closest to their hearts, without judgment and with the confidence that their employer trusts them to put their money where it will matter the most.
How to Set Up a Workplace Giving Program
If this is your first time setting up a workplace giving program, there are some important steps to consider. You want a program that reflects your company's mission and core philosophy, one that your employees will embrace and be proud to use. These are some key principles to keep in mind and some action steps to get you started.
Evaluate Your Company's Corporate Social Responsibility Policy. If You Don't Have One, This Is A Good Time To Brainstorm.
- Create a vision for your CSR that balances your responsibilities to your shareholders/owners, your employees, the community, the planet, and any other stakeholders.
- Evaluate your current activities in light of community service. Do you partner with local organizations? Host volunteer activities? Make donations to local charities? Any of these would fit under the umbrella of CSR.
- Establish a corporate code of ethics detailing how your company will treat employees, customers, the environment, and competitors in all your dealings.
- Get strategic with your giving program to ensure that it aligns with your company's values and ethics.
Set a Budget for Your Giving Program.
- The amount you budget for corporate giving should be no more than you can afford to give without affecting the cash flow you need to operate your business.
- Many large companies earmark 1% - 5% of their pre-tax earnings for charitable giving. Small companies often donate 6% or more to charity.
- Consider designating profits from one particular product for giving.
- Use the Sabsevitz Ante-Up Formula — multiply last year's pre-tax net income by 1.2% to come up with a donation budget.
- Check out more suggestions for setting your budget in this blog post.
Set Up Guidelines for Your Program
- Employees: will all employees be included in your benefits program? Will they all be level-funded, or will some positions qualify for a higher workplace giving benefit?
- Moments That Matter: Can you make donations more meaningful by tying deposit amounts to specific events in the lives for your employees?
- Decide which charities/causes your company will support. Will you restrict employee giving to designated nonprofits? How expansive will your list of eligible organizations be?
Establish A Process For Collecting, Matching, And Donating Contributions.
- See the section on How Does Workplace Giving Work?
- (Hint: Groundswell takes the stress out of this step.)
Publicize The Program.
The key to a successful workplace giving program is awareness. Your employees can't use a benefit they don't know about, and your company won't reap the benefits if your customers and employees don't know what you're doing. These are a few suggestions for raising awareness of your new employee giving program.
- List it as a benefit in your recruitment materials.
- Provide an easy — and very visible — way to access your program's front end on your employee website, Discord, or other communication software.
- Highlight your program in the company newsletter.
- Create and distribute flyers explaining the program, its benefits, and how to use it to your employees.
- If you offer donation matches, make sure that local nonprofits are aware of it.
- Partner with local nonprofits and community organizations when it makes sense.
Is Workplace Giving Tax Deductible?
The simple answer is yes, in most cases, workplace giving is tax deductible, and has been since 1935 when Congress passed a law allowing corporations to deduct up to 10% of their pretax income on their tax returns. That limit was raised to 25% to encourage more giving during the pandemic.
Maximizing Tax Benefits for Workplace Giving
It's important to understand how tax-deductible donations work in order to maximize the benefits of a workplace giving program.
Some types of corporate giving offer more benefits than others.
DAFs offer unique tax benefits, but until recently, they've been reserved for high-dollar donors. Briefly, a DAF allows your company to make a donation at the most advantageous time — before the end of the tax year, for example — and take the deduction immediately, and decide when and where that money should be donated to nonprofits. In addition, DAFs make it more efficient to donate non-cash assets, such as stock and real estate, to charity, without incurring an additional tax burden.
Workplace Giving with Groundswell
Groundswell's innovative Philanthropy as a Service model democratizes workplace giving by setting up a Personal Giving Account — an individual DAF — for each employee, effectively putting the power of a DAF in the palm of their hand.
The company can make donations into each Personal Giving Account as part of an overall corporate giving strategy, timing the donations to provide the most benefit. The employee then decides when and where to make donations to the causes that are most important to them.
If you're ready to increase the impact of your workplace giving programs, contact us to learn more about how Groundswell can empower you and your employees to do more good and make the changes they want to see in the world.
The Case for Corporations to Leverage Donor-Advised Funds
Year over year, companies are increasing their focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the impact they have on communities. Corporate charitable giving is perhaps the most visible effort that companies undertake, and the amount being donated has increased steadily, topping $21 billion in 2020.
Alongside this rise in corporate giving has been an increase in the number of companies offering to match employee donations to charity - up from 53% in 2014 to 71% in 2020.
These employee donation programs are often archaic and burdensome, and it’s estimated that $5 to $7 billion in eligible donations go unmatched by employers each year.
Donor-advised funds (DAFs), tax-advantaged giving vehicles that have been around for decades, offer a compelling solution for both companies and their employees. As will be outlined below, DAFs have historically only been available to high-net-worth individuals, but Groundswell has built a platform that turns donor-advised funds into an affordable and easy-to-administer solution for corporate and employee giving.
Groundswell believes that in the near future, companies providing donor-advised funds as a component of their total compensation approach will be as commonplace as 401(k)s, which were introduced in the United States in 1978.
Initially only utilized by the highest earners within companies who understood the intricacies of the tax benefits, 401(k)s have now become the ubiquitous tax-savings vehicle in the United States, with over 100 million accounts.
In much the same way, Groundswell drives the adoption and utilization of donor-advised funds as America’s preferred charitable giving vehicle.
What is a donor-advised fund?
Donor-advised funds are charitable giving vehicles that allow individuals, families, and businesses to make a tax-deductible contribution to a fund, which can then be distributed to qualified charities over time. DAFs were first introduced in the United States in the 1930s, but their popularity has grown significantly in recent years.
Historically, DAFs have been primarily used by wealthy individuals and families. This is because DAFs often require a significant minimum donation to establish and maintain the fund, which can be a barrier to entry for many individuals with less disposable income.
For example, according to a report by the National Philanthropic Trust, the average size of a donor-advised fund in 2019 was $413,000, and the average initial contribution was $166,000.
Overall, the growth of donor-advised funds over the past decade reflects a shift in how affluent individuals and families approach charitable giving. DAFs offer a flexible, efficient, and tax-effective way to support a variety of causes over time, and their popularity is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.
Groundswell was created to ensure that average-income Americans are not left behind in this trend.
What is the difference between a DAF and a private foundation?
There are several key differences between a donor-advised fund (DAF) and a foundation:
- Legal structure: A foundation is a separate legal entity, typically established as a nonprofit organization under state law, while a DAF is a fund held and managed by a sponsoring organization, such as a community foundation or financial institution.
- Establishment: Establishing a foundation requires significant time, effort, and expense, including legal and accounting fees, filing paperwork with the IRS, and ongoing compliance and reporting requirements. In contrast, establishing a DAF is typically quicker and easier, with lower establishment costs.
- Tax benefits: Both foundations and DAFs offer tax benefits for donors, including income tax deductions for contributions to the fund or foundation, as well as tax-free growth of assets held within the fund or foundation.
- Costs: Foundations generally have higher establishment and ongoing administrative costs, including legal and accounting fees, staff salaries, and overhead expenses, compared to DAFs, which are typically less expensive to establish and manage.
Overall, both DAFs and foundations offer donors the ability to support charitable causes and receive tax benefits for their contributions.
Historically, establishing a foundation has only made sense for the most wealthy individuals, families, and corporations due to the increased cost and compliance associated with their operation. Comparatively, donor-advised funds have offered high-income individuals and families, as well as profitable corporations, with a moderately cost-effective solution with nearly all of the same advantages as a foundation.
Groundswell ensures DAFs are no longer the enclave of the wealthy
According to a survey by U.S. Trust, 72% of high-net-worth individuals use DAFs as a key component of their overall charitable giving strategy. (Source: U.S. Trust Insights on Wealth and Worth 2018)
Over the past decade, DAFs have exploded in popularity. According to the National Philanthropic Trust's 2020 Donor-Advised Fund Report, the total number of donor-advised funds in the United States grew by 55% between 2010 and 2019, from 204,704 to 318,000. The total amount in donor-advised funds increased by 237% over the same period, from $38.8 billion to $131.1 billion.
But here’s the rub: DAFs are primarily used by wealthy individuals and families. According to the National Philanthropic Trust's 2020 Donor-Advised Fund Report, 60% of DAF assets are held in funds with balances of $1 million or more. Historically, the average donor in the United States is as likely to have a DAF as they are a member of their town’s exclusive country club.
Donor-advised funds have been reserved for the ultra-rich primarily because they’ve only been offered by the gated community of wealth advisors and financial institutions - average people need not apply.
Groundswell’s mission to democratize philanthropy has led it to create the world’s most modern and accessible donor-advised fund. Whereas a donor today needs $20,000 to open a DAF at Morgan Stanley, the minimum contribution on Groundswell is $1.
Groundswell makes DAFs an employee benefit
To further Groundswell’s mission to democratize philanthropy, the company has built a Software-as-a-Service platform that enables companies to provide their employees with individual donor-advised funds.
Groundswell’s easy-to-administer platform invites eligible employees to download the Groundswell app from the iOS or Android store. Subsequent account creation takes less than sixty seconds. At that point, the employee is the owner of their own tax-advantaged donor-advised fund.
Additionally, the Groundswell administrator platform allows companies to effortlessly create custom corporate gifting and matching programs. These programs deposit charitable dollars into employee accounts according to the program rules established by administrators. The funds are not taxable income to the employee, and once put into the employee’s account, the employee can send the funds to charity however they wish.
Advantages of providing employees with donor-advised funds
Financial wellbeing
As inflation and wage stagnation have eaten away at household incomes, many companies and HR teams have focused on the concept of financial well-being.
Financial well-being is a trend in HR that focuses on promoting the financial health and security of employees. This trend recognizes that financial stress can have a negative impact on employees' job performance, physical health, and mental well-being and that employers have a role to play in helping employees manage their finances and reduce financial stress.
Financial wellbeing programs typically include a range of resources and tools to help employees improve their financial literacy, such as educational seminars, online resources, and one-on-one financial counseling. Some employers may also offer financial incentives, such as matching contributions to retirement accounts or bonuses for achieving certain financial goals.
The trend toward financial well-being in HR has been driven in part by the growing recognition that financial stress is a major source of employee anxiety and distraction. Studies have shown that financial stress can lead to absenteeism, lower productivity, and higher healthcare costs for employers. By investing in financial well-being programs, employers can help reduce financial stress among their employees, improve job satisfaction and retention, and enhance overall business performance.
Considering that in 2020 70% of American households gave to charity, it’s safe to assume that charitable giving is an important part of the financial wellness of employees’ lives. This holds true across the wage spectrum. Low-income households give a higher percentage of their income to charity than high-income households. According to a 2018 study by the Urban Institute, households with incomes below $25,000 gave an average of 7.6% of their income to charity, while households with incomes of $200,000 or more gave an average of 4.2% of their income to charity. Perhaps obviously, despite giving a higher percentage of their income, low-income households donate smaller dollar amounts to charity. In 2020, households with incomes below $50,000 gave an average of $1,336 to charity, compared to an average of $6,082 for households with incomes of $200,000 or more (Source: Giving USA 2021).
Knowing that your employees are giving to charity creates a compelling argument to provide for them a donor-advised fund along with charitable gifts and matches that effectively subsidize their annual giving.
Tax advantages
There are three primary tax advantages that donor-advised funds can provide to your employees: minimizing taxable income in the current year while maintaining the ability to distribute funds in future years, the ability to donate appreciated stock assets, and the simplicity of a single year-end charitable giving receipt for tax reporting.
First, because the DAF is a qualifying tax-exempt vehicle, contributions to them are immediately tax deductible. This means that an employee - for instance, a high-earning sales executive receiving a large commission check - can work with a tax planner to make a large contribution to her donor-advised fund, minimize her current year tax liability, and then work strategically to distribute those funds over a longer time horizon.
Second, donor-advised funds like Groundswell unlocks the ability for employees to donate appreciated stock assets - a significant philanthropy hack utilized by wealth donors for decades.
When you donate appreciated stock to a charity, you can claim a deduction for the full market value of the stock at the time of the donation. Moreover, by donating the stock instead of selling it and then donating the proceeds, you can avoid paying capital gains taxes on the appreciation.
Here's an example: Let's say you purchased 100 shares of XYZ stock for $5,000 several years ago, and the stock is now worth $10,000. If you were to sell the stock, you would realize a capital gain of $5,000, and you would owe taxes on that gain. Assuming a capital gains tax rate of 20%, you would owe $1,000 in taxes. At the conclusion of this sale, you would only have $9,000 to donate to charity.
Instead of selling the stock, you could donate the shares to a donor-advised fund. If you do that, you can claim a charitable deduction for the full market value of the stock, which is $10,000. You can then use the funds in the donor-advised fund to make grants to charities over time. Because you donated the stock instead of selling it, you can avoid paying the $1,000 in capital gains taxes that you would have owed if you had sold the shares.
Lastly, because an employee’s donor-advised fund is a tax-exempt vehicle that centralizes all of its users' philanthropy, the employee receives only a single tax receipt for reporting purposes at the end of the year, regardless of how many contributions were made or charities were supported.
Lower fees
Online and recurring monthly giving to charity have been growing trends in recent years. Here are some statistics to illustrate the trend:
- Online giving continues to grow year over year, with a 10.6% increase in online donations in 2020 compared to the previous year. (Source: Giving USA 2021)
- Recurring giving has become increasingly popular, with a 20.4% increase in the number of recurring donors in 2020. (Source: Blackbaud Institute)
- Donors who give online tend to give more than those who give through other channels. According to a 2019 report by Classy, the average online donation amount was $93, compared to $65 for offline donations.
Younger donors are more likely to give online and to prefer recurring giving. A 2019 report by the Nonprofit Tech for Good found that 60% of Millennials prefer to give online, and 54% prefer to give monthly.
These are all positive trends. However, with the ease of online giving comes a cost: credit card transaction fees. Typical online donation fees are 3% plus $0.30. Oftentimes, online giving platforms ask the donor to cover these fees in order to provide the full donation amount to the charity. That means that an employee donating $100 online is paying $3.30 to do so. If that employee has his gift set up to occur monthly, he is going to pay nearly $40 in fees.
Groundswell’s revolutionary platform has reduced the cost of these transactions and has passed those cost savings to users. Groundswell’s distribution fees are 1% - offering significant annual savings to employees.
Privacy leads to inclusion
Employee donor-advised funds also offer something essential to an inclusive and equitable employee giving program: privacy.
In traditional corporate donation matching programs, employees must submit evidence of their donation to an administrator, often in human resources. For decades this arrangement was never questioned. How else would a company know where to send the match? However, in an increasingly polarized world and workplace, employees are increasingly hesitant to disclose what charitable organizations they support for fear of ridicule, or worse, retribution.
For the first time ever, donor-advised funds offer an alternative. Because the DAF is a charitable account, with the funds contributed to it only eligible to be sent to charity, employees can contribute to their DAF and request that their match be made directly into their account. Since the employee has received their match prior to sending the money to the causes they care about, they can distribute the funds how, where, and when they like with complete privacy.
In this manner, Groundswell’s platform has completely reimagined what corporate matching looks like. The result is a more private, inclusive, and equitable program - all made possible by donor-advised funds.
A true benefit that stays with the employee
Because the DAF is an individual account registered in the employee's name - like a 401k plan or health savings account (HSA) - the employee is able to take their account with them if they were to leave the company.
This makes leveraging a DAF for employee giving the first step toward truly making philanthropy an employee benefit. Previous models of employee matching were nothing more than process automation tools. But providing a portable DAF is giving an employee something of lifetime financial value.
What do companies gain by leveraging donor-advised funds
Reduced risk
Within traditional matching programs, a company receives a request from an employee to send a donation match to a charity they’ve supported. The company, upon confirming the details of the charity, sends payment directly to the charity from the company’s account. This action thereby directly associates the company with the charity - a potentially risky association in a hyper-polarized world.
However, leveraging employee DAFs provides companies with an alternative. By structuring a corporate matching program through employee DAFs, companies can eliminate their association with recipient charities. Because the company’s funds are only ever going to the DAF’s fiscal sponsor - in Groundswell’s case this would be the Groundswell Charitable Foundation - there is no financial link between the company and the charity. The charity receives disbursements from the Groundswell Charitable Foundation, at the recommendation of the employee (whose employment status or employer is not disclosed).
The result is a matching program that is optimized for inclusion, not exclusion.
Reduced risk leads to increased inclusion
Not surprisingly, many companies have been fearful of directly associating with specific charities and have thus resorted to various forms of restricting the range of nonprofits eligible for corporate matches. This restriction has basically taken two forms.
The first form happens when a company creates a list of charities it has proactively screened and approved. These lists tend to have between five and 25 charities listed, with most of them national in scope. The problem with this list is that for most people, philanthropy is deeply personal and often local, and it's unlikely that a large, national organization fulfills its philanthropic aims.
The second form happens when companies attempt to place specific charities or issue areas on a “deny list” that excludes them from eligibility. Not surprisingly, this approach is a slippery slope. Each nonprofit or issue area that is restricted effectively amounts to a statement by the company that the issue at hand is not worthy of support - a statement that can be marginalizing for employees who want to support that nonprofit.
One segment of eligible charities that are often excluded is religion. This is unfortunate for employees because giving to houses of worship accounted for $131 billion of the $324 billion in individual giving in 2020. According to a 2016 study by the Nonprofit Research Collaborative, 70% of low-income households gave to religious organizations, compared to 48% of high-income households. While choosing not to directly support a religion may seem like a logical thing for a corporation to do, it fails to acknowledge that for many employees their house of worship is also their source of other social support, such as counseling, food security, or education.
Groundswell believes that inclusion begins with inclusion - specifically, companies should strive to match contributions to any eligible 501c3 that is not a documented hate group. Our matching solution - which uses donor-advised funds as an intermediary - provides companies with the opportunity to do so.
Reduced administrative burden
Like individuals, companies can also utilize donor-advised funds for their philanthropic giving. Due to their minimal legal, compliance, and administrative requirements, DAFs are often the most logical and cost-effective solution for companies looking to create a charitable vehicle for their corporate social responsibility.
As part of its platform, Groundswell offers companies a corporate DAF at no extra cost. This corporate giving account is fully tax-advantaged and has the ability to create corporate grants that are sent directly to charity.
Responding to Disasters: Your Corporate Giving Playbook
As the frequency and intensity of natural disasters and wide-scale emergencies increase, and as government resources are stretched thin, communities are turning more often to companies to assist in immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. This toolkit provides your company with do's and don'ts of how best to respond, as well as additional resources around how best to engage employees in responding to a disaster.
If you're looking for a list of agencies who respond to disasters, read our blog Disaster Relief Response: Nonprofit Organizations.
Give Better: A Playbook for Effective Giving in a Disaster
Companies can play an important, valuable role in different phases of disasters - from preparedness to immediate response to longer-term recovery. Companies bring a lot to a disaster context; in addition to critical funding, they can leverage a workforce with specific skills, innovative resources, and cutting-edge technology that can help prepare communities to be more resilient and also save communities from a downward spiral post-disaster.
But HOW companies show up and partner with communities before, during, and after a disaster is critical. Many companies end up making mistakes that can reduce the effectiveness of their support - and sometimes cause more harm than good to those facing disaster.
"Business as usual" would be simply cutting a big check to one or two big-name disaster response charities, selected by company leaders. But there are so many other ways to have an impact and diversify that impact. For instance, companies can empower their employees to show up at the moment and donate in a way that makes them feel most connected to what’s going on, whether it’s to a local animal shelter rescuing abandoned animals, a homeless shelter helping an influx of those displaced, or a food bank distributing to families in need.
In this toolkit, Groundswell's team shares what companies should - and shouldn't - do, when it comes to sending resources to support when disaster strikes.
Responding to Disasters: Facts and Data
- 50% percentage of donations arrive within the first two weeks of major disasters, and the rest come over the next six weeks, leaving longer-term work under-funded
- $3.6 billion donated in disaster-related funding from corporate giving programs in 2020
- $1 invested, $6 saved — it is estimated that every $1 invested in disaster preparedness can save $6 when a disaster hits
Demystifying the Phases of Disasters
Disasters are complex. Our eyes are drawn to images of the destruction left in a storm’s path or after the earth stops shaking - but the true effects of disasters and the lives impacted often go far beyond what makes news headlines. The majority of donations in a disaster strongly correlate with the moments of immediate relief - when lives are at risk, critical infrastructure is damaged, and the media is laser-focused on it.
Disasters should be viewed on a longer continuum, to not only include the immediate response and relief, but also longer-term recovery (rebuilding homes, roads, and livelihoods), as well as critical mitigation and preparedness activities - such as hardening structures, improving evacuation and communications protocols, etc - to help prevent future devastation.
It’s important to consider these different phases when determining how and when to provide support for a disaster. Donations before, during, and after disasters can be game-changing, but figuring out the right, the most impactful approach isn’t always easy.
In the following pages, we offer tips to help you make the right choices not only when disaster strikes but also how you consider support in the longer term.
Do’s and Don'ts of Corporate Disaster Philanthropy
Here are some tips from the team at Groundswell, leveraging years of experience in the disaster relief space:
#1: Don't send stuff, send money
Sending clothes or supplies (also known as “in-kind” donations), while well-intended, can clog already complex supply and logistics operations. And they often don’t get to those most in need, or worse - are entirely inappropriate for the context.
People don’t need paper towels thrown at them when they don’t have drinking water. And they don’t need winter coats if they live in a tropical climate. Sending hundreds of pounds of frozen chicken to a disaster zone when there’s no way to keep it frozen, much less transport it to those needing food, can end up being more trouble than help.
The disaster response organizations on the ground have the best understanding of what supplies are needed and where to deploy them - and the best way to support those organizations is through cash donations.
#2: Sometimes it's ok to send stuff, here's how
In some instances, in-kind donations CAN be very effective in an emergency, but they need to be tightly coordinated with nonprofits. In-kind donations are also most helpful if they can have an impact at scale and fill a critical gap; in other words, it is important that these products fill a need that others on the ground cannot fill.
Examples include: providing access to large machinery to clear roads, technicians to restore power and communications infrastructure, aircraft to send relief workers to the frontlines, and free advertising to increase awareness of what’s happening and drive cash donations.
#3: Move quickly
In many emergency situations, early donations are critical for organizations responding on the ground - enabling emergency teams to mobilize and purchase life-saving supplies.
You can launch a gift or match program for your employees in a matter of minutes using the Groundswell platform, immediately allowing your company, via your entire employee base, to send support to disaster relief organizations on the ground.
In a disaster, one large corporate check to a single organization, while impactful for that organization, risks deprioritizing what your employees care most about. Empower all of your employees to move quickly and meet the moment using Groundswell.
#4: Leverage expert vetting
You may want to move quickly, but you also want to protect against fraud and ensure the donations go to worthy recipients. You can move fast knowing that Groundswell handles all the vetting - researching and evaluating the organizations responding to disasters to give you the peace of mind that your donation is going to be well used.
Groundswell is also launching a partnership with GlobalGiving to provide access to thousands of rigorously-vetted international nonprofits responding to disasters that hit beyond U.S. borders.
#5: Think holistically (and empower your employees to respond to disasters holistically)
Responding to a disaster includes far more than repairing homes and infrastructure, or providing shelter and food to those displaced.
Often those who are already vulnerable before disaster strikes (homeless populations, women confronting domestic violence, low-income communities, refugees) are disproportionately impacted by natural disasters, especially if they don’t have immediate access to emergency services or social safety nets. Below are a few examples.
Poverty
- An assessment of the impacts of Hurricane Harvey in Houston shows that low-income neighborhoods experienced far greater damage and longer-term recovery challenges than wealthier areas. For example, only 17% of homeowners held flood insurance policies, which tend to be held by wealthier households.
Domestic Violence
- Disasters also exacerbate violence against women. Studies have shown that in the aftermath of large-scale disasters, intimate partner violence increases. The percentage of women reporting violence increased from 33.6% to 45.2% following Hurricane Katrina.
Mental Health
- Another less visible impact of a disaster is mental health, especially for those who have previously suffered from mental illness. Overwhelming evidence suggests that the stress of living through a disaster can exacerbate prior challenges or create new ones. Many of the mental health challenges that emerge after a disaster present themselves about 18 months later, which is often when most funding support ends.
#6: Support longer-term recovery needs and future resilience
While it is important to support disaster relief nonprofits that are working on the frontlines to quickly provide immediate relief for impacted communities, it is also important to be mindful of the longer-term recovery needs that emerge weeks and even months after a disaster, when most donations dry up. Most donations are made within the first few weeks of a disaster, and then when attention wanes, so does the funding.
Recovery
- Yes, we are motivated to provide relief at the moment to those in need of immediate lifesaving food, water, and shelter. And that support is important for organizations on the ground. But equally critical is the long-term recovery work, like repairing homes, roads, and businesses, which requires immense resources. For example, there are reports that the recovery from Hurricane Ian in September 2022 could be the costliest in history for the state of Florida. Moreover, when the media’s attention goes elsewhere, so do donations. So a donation to support longer-term recovery can have an immense impact.
Calculating the Value of Preparedness & Resilience
- Equally important is investing in disaster preparedness - sometimes known as resilience - that helps communities be better prepared to withstand the impacts of the next natural disaster. This can mean fortifying structures, and also investing in systems for evacuation and communication in a disaster. Preparedness is historically underfunded, but it’s where every dollar can have a huge impact. It is estimated that every $1 invested in preparedness and disaster mitigation can save $6 when a disaster hits. It is also an opportunity to test more innovative prevention and mitigation approaches that governments are less willing to invest in.
Disaster Response: Engage Your Employees
Acknowledge the Crisis
There will likely be an awareness of the disaster -- depending the scale and amount of media attention. But communicating early to your employees via a company-wide email or blog post can help display empathy with those impacted and signal a commitment to step up and support those impacted by the crisis.
Call to Action
Share details of a specific gift or match program for the disaster. This communication can highlight specific nonprofits that your company wants to support, or point employees to other featured nonprofits found on the Groundswell app dashboard specifically focused on responding to the disaster. The company may be offering a special, time-sensitive match as a way to encourage employees to participate.
Report Results
Share the results of the ways that your company came together - collectively - to support communities impacted by the disaster. This might include how many employees participated/donated, the number and amount of donations, the range of nonprofits that received support, etc.
If there is a time-sensitive match that expires at the end of a set time frame, remind employees to log into their Groundswell account to contribute and donate.
Emergency Giving Program: Gifting and Matching
- Keep a portion of your annual budget in reserve so that you can match and/or gift employees to have a greater impact in response to the emergency. You can set up an ad hoc program with Groundswell in a matter of minutes, and meet the moment with urgency and intention.
- Consider launching a combined Gift and Match program - that empowers employees to donate at the moment, while also incentivizing them to contribute their own funds.
- Being immediately responsive and pointing your employees to vetted nonprofits to donate to shows that you are responsive as a company and giving your employees the agency to take action.
AAPI Heritage Month: Donate to These Nonprofits
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM) is a month-long celebration of the history, culture, and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). It is observed every May in the United States and is a time to recognize the contributions of AAPIs to American society.
AAPIs are a diverse group of people, with roots in over 50 countries and territories in Asia and the Pacific. They come from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds and speak over 100 languages. AAPIs are the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the United States and makeup over 7% of the population.
AAPIs have a long and rich history in the United States. Asian Americans have played a vital role in the development of the country. AAPIs have served in the military, founded businesses, and made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and humanities.
AAPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of AAPIs and to learn more about their history and culture. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges that AAPIs have faced, and to recommit to the fight for equality and justice for all.
Here are some ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month:
- Attend a cultural event or festival.
- Read a book or watch a movie about Asian American or Pacific Islander culture.
- Learn about the history of AAPIs in the United States.
- Talk to your friends and family about AAPI Heritage Month.
- Get involved in your community and advocate for the rights of AAPIs.
- Donate to the nonprofits supporting AAPIs
This list of nonprofits supports Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders:
Asian Arts Initiative
The Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) is a community-based arts center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1993 by a group of artists and community leaders who were concerned about the lack of opportunities for Asian American artists in the city.
AAI's mission is to "engage artists and everyday people to create art that explores the diverse experiences of Asian Americans, addresses our social context, and imagines and effects positive community change."
The organization offers a variety of programs and services, including:
- Exhibitions of visual art, photography, and film
- Performances of theater, dance, and music
- Educational programs for youth and adults
- Artist residencies and fellowships
- Community-building initiatives
AAI's programs are designed to provide opportunities for Asian American artists to create, exhibit, and perform their work. The organization also works to promote understanding and appreciation of Asian American culture through its educational and community-building initiatives.
AAI is located in the Chinatown North neighborhood of Philadelphia. The organization's headquarters is a former Warner Bros. theater that was renovated in 2005. AAI also has a satellite gallery in the Logan Square neighborhood.
AAI is a non-profit organization that receives funding from a variety of sources, including the city of Philadelphia, the state of Pennsylvania, and private foundations. The organization also relies on the support of its members and donors.
AAI is a vital part of the Asian American community in Philadelphia. The organization provides opportunities for artists to create and share their work, and it works to promote understanding and appreciation of Asian American culture. AAI is a valuable resource for the city of Philadelphia and the region as a whole.
AAPI Equity Alliance
AAPI Equity Alliance (AAPI Equity) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) in Los Angeles County. The organization was founded in 1973 as the Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council (APPPC), and changed its name to AAPI Equity in 2022.
AAPI Equity's mission is to "advance racial and economic justice for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through policy advocacy, civic engagement, and capacity building."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Anti-Asian hate
- Education
- Economic opportunity
- Health
- Housing
- Immigration
- Voting rights
AAPI Equity has a long history of advocacy for AAPIs in Los Angeles County. The organization has played a key role in securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, passing legislation to protect AAPIs from discrimination, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
Here are some of AAPI Equity's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, AAPI Equity played a key role in passing a law that requires the Los Angeles Police Department to collect data on hate crimes against AAPIs.
- In 2022, AAPI Equity helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
- AAPI Equity is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in Los Angeles County.
AAPI Equity is a vital part of the AAPI community in Los Angeles County.
National Asian Pacific Women’s Forum
The National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF) is a national non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women and girls. The organization was founded in 1996 by a group of AAPI women who recognized the need for an organization that would amplify their voices and experiences.
NAPAWF's mission is to "build power with AAPI women and girls to influence critical decisions that affect our lives, our families, and our communities."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Economic justice
- Education
- Health
- Immigrant and refugee rights
- Reproductive justice
- Violence against women
NAPAWF has a long history of advocacy for AAPI women and girls. The organization has played a key role in passing legislation to protect AAPI women from violence, securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
NAPAWF is a valuable resource for AAPI women and girls. The organization provides information and resources on a variety of issues, and it works to build power and unity within the AAPI community.
Here are some of NAPAWF's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, NAPAWF played a key role in passing the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, which includes important protections for AAPI women.
- In 2022, NAPAWF helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- NAPAWF is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in the United States.
NAPAWF is a vital part of the AAPI community in the United States.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) is a national non-profit organization that advocates for the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). The organization was founded in 1982 by a group of AAPI activists and lawyers who recognized the need for an organization that would fight for the rights of AAPIs.
AAJC's mission is to "promote a fair and equitable society for all by working for civil and human rights that empower Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other underserved communities."
The organization works on a variety of issues, including:
- Anti-Asian hate
- Civil rights
- Criminal justice reform
- Education
- Economic opportunity
- Immigration
- Voting rights
AAJC has a long history of advocacy for AAPIs. The organization has played a key role in passing legislation to protect AAPIs from discrimination, securing funding for AAPI-serving organizations, and raising awareness of AAPI issues.
Here are some of AAJC's recent accomplishments:
- In 2021, AAJC played a key role in passing the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which provides funding to law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute hate crimes against AAPIs.
- In 2022, AAJC helped to secure $10 million in funding for AAPI-serving organizations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- AAJC is currently working on a campaign to raise awareness of the rising rates of anti-Asian hate in the United States.
Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco (AAM) is a museum in San Francisco, California that specializes in Asian art. It is one of the largest Asian art museums in the United States, with a collection of over 18,000 works of art from all major Asian countries and traditions. The museum's collection spans over 6,000 years of history and includes a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and metalwork.
The AAM was founded in 1966 by a group of local philanthropists and art lovers. The museum's first home was in the War Memorial Opera House, but it moved to its current location on Larkin Street in 1989. The new building, designed by architect Gae Aulenti, was praised for its innovative design and its integration of traditional Asian and modern Western architectural elements.
The AAM is a major cultural institution in San Francisco, and it attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. The museum offers a variety of public programs, including lectures, films, and family activities. It also has a robust educational program that reaches out to schools and community groups throughout the Bay Area.
The AAM is committed to making Asian art accessible to everyone. The museum offers free admission to all visitors on the first Tuesday of every month, and it has a variety of programs and resources for people with disabilities. The museum also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it is working to make its collection and programs more representative of the diversity of the Asian community.
The AAM is a vital part of the cultural landscape of San Francisco, and it is playing an important role in promoting understanding and appreciation of Asian art and culture.
Asian Pacific Fund
The Asian Pacific Fund (APF) is a community development financial institution (CDFI) that invests in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities in the San Francisco Bay Area. APF was founded in 1984 by a group of API leaders who recognized the need for a financial institution that would provide capital and other resources to API businesses and organizations.
APF is a non-profit organization that is governed by a board of directors that is composed of API leaders from the Bay Area. APF's staff is also majority API. APF is committed to using its resources to support API communities and to promote economic development and opportunity for API individuals and families.
APF offers a variety of financial products and services to API businesses and organizations, including:
- Loans: APF provides loans to API businesses and organizations for a variety of purposes, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate development.
- Investments: APF invests in API businesses and organizations through a variety of vehicles, including venture capital, private equity, and debt investments.
- Technical assistance: APF provides technical assistance to API businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, including business planning, marketing, and financial management.
- Education and training: APF provides education and training to API businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, including financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.
APF has invested over $1 billion in API communities in the Bay Area. APF's investments have helped to create and support thousands of jobs, and they have helped to revitalize API neighborhoods and communities. APF is a vital part of the economic development and opportunity for API individuals and families in the Bay Area.
Search to Involve Filipino Americans
Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California.
They provide a variety of services to Filipino Americans, including:
- Health and human services, such as case management, counseling, and health education
- Community economic development, such as small business assistance and job training
- Arts and culture programming, such as dance, music, and theater performances
- Civic engagement and advocacy, such as voter registration and voter education
SIPA was founded in 1973 by a group of Filipino American community leaders who were concerned about the lack of resources and services available to Filipino Americans in Los Angeles. SIPA has since grown into a major provider of services to Filipino Americans, and it is one of the largest and most respected Filipino American organizations in the United States.
SIPA's mission is to "enrich the lives of Pilipino Americans and others by providing health and human services, community economic development, arts and culture, and a place where people of all backgrounds can come together to strengthen community." SIPA's vision is to be "a leading force in the empowerment of Pilipino Americans and others, and to create a more just and equitable society for all."
Chinese for Affirmative Action
Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA) is a community-based civil rights organization located in San Francisco Chinatown. We fight for social justice for Chinese Americans and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in California.
CAA was founded in 1969 by a group of Chinese American community leaders who were concerned about the lack of opportunities for Chinese Americans in education, employment, and housing. CAA has since grown into one of the leading civil rights organizations in the United States.
CAA's mission is to "defend and promote the civil and political rights of Chinese and Asian Americans within the context of and in the interest of, advancing multiracial democracy in the United States."
CAA works on a variety of issues, including:
- Education: CAA advocates for equal access to quality education for all students, regardless of race or ethnicity. CAA also works to close the achievement gap between Asian American and Pacific Islander students and other students.
- Employment: CAA advocates for fair and equal employment opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to address the issue of wage discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
- Housing: CAA advocates for fair and affordable housing for all Californians, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to address the issue of housing discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
- Immigration: CAA advocates for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. CAA also works to protect the rights of immigrants, including Asian American and Pacific Islander immigrants.
- Voting rights: CAA advocates for the right to vote for all Californians, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAA also works to register Asian American and Pacific Islander voters and to educate them about their voting rights.
Employee Matching Gift Programs: A Competitive Advantage in Recruiting Top Talent
Employee matching gifts can be a valuable tool for companies looking to recruit talented employees. These programs allow employees to donate to their favorite charities, and the company will match the donation up to a designated amount.
So how do employee matching gift programs help with recruiting talented employees?
One of the main benefits of employee matching gift programs is that they help attract and retain employees who are passionate about giving back to their communities and have a purpose behind their efforts. By offering this type of program, companies demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy, which can be a significant factor for job seekers when choosing an employer.
In addition to attracting talent with employee benefits, matching gift programs can also help enhance the company's reputation in the community and among potential job candidates. When companies support the causes that their employees care about, they send a message that they value their employees' interests and are invested in making a positive impact beyond their core business.
Finally, implementing an employee matching gift program can also boost employee engagement and morale. Employees who participate in these programs feel empowered and valued, and they may develop a stronger sense of loyalty and commitment to their employer.
Let’s take a deeper look at each of these reasons for using employee matching gift programs to attract and retain talented employees.
How companies demonstrate their commitment to social impact and philanthropy with a corporate matching gift program
Corporate matching gift programs demonstrate a company’s commitment to social impact and philanthropy because these programs involve companies matching donations made by their employees to eligible non-profit organizations, usually on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
Here are some ways in which companies demonstrate their commitment to social impact and philanthropy through their corporate matching gift programs:
1. It makes it easy for employees to donate to causes they care about.
Companies encourage employees to participate in their matching gift program by making it easy and convenient to donate to vetted charities. This can include having a user-friendly mobile application where employees can easily make donations and submit their matching gift requests when they feel inspired rather than waiting to make donations when they’re at a computer.
Removing the friction between being inspired to donate and being able to donate makes it much more likely that employees will participate in the matching program and make a social impact. This is generally a feature of a corporate gift matching program that makes employees feel included, lending to a higher likelihood of retention.
2. It creates an inclusive program that empowers employees to decide where their company’s philanthropy dollars go.
Traditionally, corporate philanthropy embodied a top-down approach, which gave decision-making power to the corporate leaders occupying the c-suite positions. This framework did not lend well to reflecting the diverse views of the company’s entire workforce.
While generally the decisions made by executives were made with noble motivations, they likely did not reflect the diverse interests of the workforce.
For example, while few will argue with donations made to a nonprofit focused on combatting climate change, some employees may be more invested in cancer research because they have firsthand experience.
The modern corporate philanthropy framework gives power to employees and allows them to decide where donation dollars should head towards.
At Groundswell, we believe impact is local. We love to tout the phrase “give where you live” because your dollars make the biggest impact when given to the organizations making a difference in local communities.
An inclusive corporate gift matching program empowers employees to make key decisions on who should receive their support, lending to diverse representation in its application when compared with traditional top-down methods of corporate philanthropy.
3. Setting ambitious giving goals and milestones reminds team members of their social impact.
Companies that set ambitious goals for their matching gift programs, such as a target dollar amount or percentage of employee participation, have a higher likelihood of building a strong company culture around giving. It also allows companies to showcase their effort both internally and publicly.
An employee gift matching program can help to motivate employees and demonstrate the company's commitment to social impact and philanthropy.
This lends well to attracting employees who are deliberate about their social impact while building trust in the company.
Enhancing a company’s reputation and public image with employee matching gifts
Simply put, any effort a company makes that aligns with corporate social responsibility best practices are generally well received by the public. That same sentiment resonates with candidates for employment, giving companies a leg-up in the war for talent when pitted against other businesses that may not offer the same employee benefit.
When employees use their employee gift matching program, the company’s social impact in the community grows. Companies making a social impact likely build a reputation around generosity and philanthropy. Those companies become known for their impact on the community, likely attracting both customers and talented employees who want to be associated with a socially responsible company.
In a world where social media gives everyone a public platform, reputation is a key component in attracting and retaining hardworking employees who align with those corporate values.
Boosting employee engagement by subsidizing social impact
In March of 2023, Groundswell surveyed 600 employees working at companies with more than 50 employees. The results revealed that 64% of employees we polled believe they are more motivated to work more effectively and efficiently when their company’s philanthropy aligns with their values.
The results also revealed that 66% of the employees we polled said receiving a charitable giving stipend would inspire them to be more charitable.
From this study, we can deduce that employees who are offered to participate in an employee gift matching program are more likely to put more effort into their work than those who aren’t offered a program. Additionally, employees are also likely to contribute to a more charitable workplace culture when offered a stipend for their charitable giving.
Subsidizing employee social impact can boost employee engagement and lend to a more involved workplace culture.
Overall, employee matching gift programs can be a powerful tool for companies looking to attract and retain talented employees. By investing in their employees' philanthropic interests and demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility, companies can differentiate themselves in the job market and build a more engaged and loyal workforce.
Read other related articles:
National Volunteering Week: Nonprofits to Support
National Volunteering Week is an annual event that takes place in many countries around the world, usually during the month of April.
It is a week-long celebration of volunteering and its importance in society, and it provides an opportunity for organizations and communities to recognize and thank volunteers for their contributions.
During National Volunteering Week, there are often a variety of events and activities organized to promote volunteering and encourage more people to get involved. These may include volunteer fairs, community service projects, and recognition ceremonies for outstanding volunteers.
The week also serves as a reminder of the many different ways that people can volunteer their time and skills, from working with non-profit organizations to helping out in schools, hospitals, and other community organizations.
Overall, National Volunteering Week is a great opportunity for people to come together and celebrate the spirit of volunteering, and encourage others to get involved and make a positive difference in their communities.
Here is a list of nonprofit organizations to support for National Volunteering Week:
Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2010 by two military veterans, Jake Wood and William McNulty. The organization's mission is to provide disaster relief and humanitarian aid to people affected by natural disasters and other crises.
Team Rubicon is unique in that it is primarily staffed by military veterans who have experience in disaster response and recovery operations. The organization leverages the skills and expertise of these veterans to provide effective and efficient disaster relief efforts.
The organization's disaster response efforts include search and rescue, debris removal, and home repairs. In addition to responding to disasters in the United States, Team Rubicon has also provided aid to people affected by natural disasters and conflicts in countries around the world, including Haiti, Nepal, and the Philippines.
Overall, Team Rubicon's unique approach to disaster relief and humanitarian aid has made it a highly respected and effective organization in the nonprofit sector.
Points of Light
Points of Light is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1990 by former U.S. President George H.W. Bush. The organization's mission is to inspire, equip, and mobilize people to take action that changes the world.
Points of Light operates in over 200 countries and territories. The organization works with both individuals and organizations to promote volunteerism, community engagement, and social responsibility.
The organization offers a variety of programs and initiatives to support these goals, including:
- The Points of Light Global Network: This network includes hundreds of organizations and individuals who are working to promote volunteerism and civic engagement in their communities around the world.
- The Civic Accelerator: This program provides training and support for social entrepreneurs who are working to address important social and environmental issues.
- The Daily Point of Light Award: This award recognizes individuals and organizations who are making a difference in their communities through volunteerism and service.
- The Conference on Volunteering and Service: This annual conference brings together thousands of leaders and practitioners from the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors to share ideas and best practices for promoting volunteerism and community engagement.
Through its various programs and initiatives, Points of Light has become a leading organization in the nonprofit sector, helping to inspire and empower people around the world to take action and make a positive difference in their communities.
Operation Gratitude
Operation Gratitude is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2003 by Carolyn Blashek. The organization's mission is to express gratitude to U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families by sending care packages and letters of appreciation.
Since its founding, Operation Gratitude has shipped over 3.7 million care packages to U.S. service members deployed overseas and to their families and veterans at home. The care packages include a variety of items, such as snacks, hygiene products, entertainment items, and letters of appreciation from volunteers and supporters.
In addition to sending care packages, Operation Gratitude also organizes events and programs to support military personnel and their families. These programs include the Battalion Buddy Program, which provides stuffed animals to children of deployed service members, and the Veterans Day Parade Float, which honors veterans and their families.
Operation Gratitude relies on the support of volunteers and donors to carry out its mission. Volunteers from across the country contribute their time and skills to assemble care packages and write letters of appreciation. Donors provide the funding and materials needed to create the care packages and support the organization's programs.
Overall, Operation Gratitude is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in supporting U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Youth Volunteer Corps
Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1987 with the mission of engaging youth ages 11-18 in meaningful volunteer service. The organization's goal is to inspire a lifetime commitment to service and to develop the skills and abilities of young people to become effective community leaders.
YVC operates in over 50 communities across the United States and Canada, and partners with schools, youth-serving organizations, and community groups to provide service opportunities for young people. YVC programs typically consist of a variety of service projects that focus on issues such as hunger and homelessness, the environment, and senior care.
The organization emphasizes the importance of meaningful service experiences. It works to ensure that youth have the opportunity to engage in service that is both rewarding and impactful. YVC programs also aim to build leadership skills and promote personal growth and development through activities such as team building, leadership training, and reflection.
YVC also offers a number of special initiatives and programs, such as the YVC Global Youth Service Day, which is a day of service that takes place each year in April, and the YVC Summer of Service, which is a summer program that provides intensive service experiences for young people.
Overall, Youth Volunteer Corps is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has helped to inspire and engage thousands of young people in meaningful volunteer service. By promoting a lifelong commitment to service and leadership, YVC is helping to create a better future for communities across North America.
VolunteerNow
VolunteerNow is a nonprofit organization based in Dallas, Texas, that provides services and resources to support volunteerism and community engagement. The organization's mission is to connect people with meaningful volunteer opportunities and to build capacity for effective community engagement.
VolunteerNow offers a variety of services to support volunteerism, including a volunteer matching platform that connects individuals and groups with volunteer opportunities in their communities. The organization also provides training and support for nonprofit organizations and community groups, to help them build their capacity to engage volunteers effectively.
In addition to its volunteer matching and capacity-building services, VolunteerNow also provides a variety of other resources to support community engagement. These resources include a volunteer center accreditation program, which recognizes organizations that meet certain standards for volunteer engagement, and a corporate volunteerism program that helps companies develop and implement effective employee volunteer programs.
VolunteerNow is also actively involved in promoting and supporting national days of service, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and National Volunteer Week, and works to raise awareness of the importance of volunteerism and community engagement.
Overall, VolunteerNow is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in promoting volunteerism and community engagement in the Dallas area and beyond. By connecting people with meaningful service opportunities and building the capacity of nonprofit organizations and community groups, VolunteerNow is helping to create a stronger and more engaged community.
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America (VOA) is a national nonprofit organization that was founded in 1896 with the mission of serving people in need and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive. The organization provides a wide range of services to help people in need, including affordable housing, job training, and employment services, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services.
VOA operates in over 400 communities across the United States and serves more than 1.5 million people each year. The organization's programs and services are designed to address a variety of social and economic issues, including poverty, homelessness, addiction, and mental illness.
One of the organization's core programs is its affordable housing services, which include the development and management of low-income housing units for individuals and families in need. VOA also provides a range of support services for residents of its housing units, such as case management, employment services, and life skills training.
In addition to its housing services, VOA also provides a variety of other programs and services, including job training and employment services, substance abuse and mental health treatment, and services for veterans and their families. The organization's programs are designed to address the unique needs of the individuals and communities it serves, delivered with compassion, respect, and a commitment to excellence.
Overall, Volunteers of America is a highly respected and effective nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact in improving the lives of people in need across the United States.
Adopt One Block
Adopt One Block is a nonprofit organization that encourages individuals and groups to take responsibility for the cleanliness and upkeep of their local communities. The organization's mission is to promote a sense of civic pride and responsibility by empowering individuals and groups to take ownership of their neighborhoods and to work together to keep them clean and well-maintained.
Adopt One Block encourages individuals and groups to "adopt" a block in their community, which involves committing to keeping that block clean and free of litter and debris. The organization provides resources and support to help adopters organize cleanup efforts and to connect with other individuals and groups who are also committed to keeping their neighborhoods clean.
In addition to its focus on community cleanups, Adopt One Block also works to promote environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of reusable materials and reducing waste. The organization also supports education and outreach efforts to raise awareness about the importance of community involvement in maintaining clean and healthy neighborhoods.
By promoting a sense of civic pride and responsibility, Adopt One Block is helping to create stronger, more connected, and more vibrant neighborhoods.
All Hands and Hearts
All Hands and Hearts is a nonprofit organization that provides disaster relief and recovery services in communities affected by natural disasters and other crises around the world. The organization's mission is to help communities recover from disasters and to build back stronger and more resilient than before.
All Hands and Hearts provides a range of services to support disaster relief and recovery efforts, including debris removal, home and school rebuilding, and community development. The organization relies heavily on volunteers, both local and international, to provide these services. Volunteers receive training and support to ensure that they can contribute effectively to relief efforts.
One of the unique features of All Hands and Hearts is its focus on long-term recovery and rebuilding. The organization recognizes that the effects of natural disasters and other crises can be long-lasting, and works to support communities in their efforts to rebuild and become more resilient in the face of future disasters.
All Hands and Hearts has responded to disasters and crises around the world, including hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires.
The organization has a strong track record of delivering effective and impactful relief and recovery services and has received numerous awards and accolades for its work.
Spark the Change Colorado
Spark the Change Colorado is a nonprofit organization that works to empower young people and create positive change in communities across Colorado. The organization's mission is to inspire and support youth-led service projects that address critical community needs and help to build stronger, more connected communities.
Spark the Change Colorado works with a wide range of community partners, including schools, nonprofit organizations, and businesses, to identify community needs and develop service projects that are led and implemented by young people. The organization provides resources, training, and support to help young people develop leadership skills, plan and implement service projects, and make a positive impact in their communities.
One of the unique features of Spark the Change Colorado is its focus on youth-led service projects. By empowering young people to take a leadership role in service projects, the organization is helping to build a new generation of community leaders who are committed to creating positive change and making a difference in their communities.
Spark the Change Colorado has supported a wide range of service projects in communities across the state, including projects focused on environmental sustainability, health and wellness, and social justice.
Disaster Relief Response: Nonprofit Organizations
There are many nonprofit organizations working to provide disaster relief response that impacts communities in the United States. Many of these organizations also respond to disasters outside the U.S. Listed below is a selection of nonprofits you can find on the Groundswell app:
SBP - St. Bernard's Parish
SBP is a nationally recognized disaster resilience and recovery organization whose mission is to shrink the time between disaster and recovery. Founded in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina, SBP has grown to an organization with more than 80 employees and 240 AmeriCorps members. Still headquartered in New Orleans, SBP has nine additional active operating sites around the country.
Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope is an American nonprofit humanitarian and disaster relief organization that provides food, supplies, and humanitarian services to impoverished or otherwise needy populations throughout the world.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross, also known as The American National Red Cross, is a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and disaster preparedness education in the United States.
Operation BBQ Relief
Armed with a caravan of cooks, mobile pits, kitchens, and volunteers, Operation BBQ Relief delivers the healing power of BBQ in times of need, feeding first responders and communities affected by natural disasters along with year-round efforts to fight hunger through The Always Serving Project® and Camp OBR™ programs.
Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon’s mission is to provide disaster relief response to those affected by natural disasters, no matter when or where they strike. By pairing the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders, medical professionals, and technology solutions, Team Rubicon aims to provide the greatest service and impact possible. Founded in 2010, Team Rubicon has deployed across the United States and around the world to provide immediate relief to those impacted by disasters and humanitarian crises.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen uses the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of crisis and beyond. WCK is first on the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. We build resilient food systems with locally-led solutions.
All Hands And Hearts
All Hands and Hearts is an organization committed to effectively and efficiently addressing the immediate and long-term needs of global communities impacted by disasters. All Hands and Hearts arrives early for the first response and stays late to rebuild schools and homes in a disaster-resilient way.
Doctors Without Borders
Doctors Without Borders provide medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. Their teams are made up of tens of thousands of health professionals, and logistic and administrative staff - most of them hired locally. Their actions are guided by medical ethics and the principles of impartiality, independence, and neutrality.
International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people affected by these crises—including the climate crisis—to survive, recover and rebuild their lives.
International Medical Corps
International Medical Corps is a global, nonprofit, humanitarian aid organization dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering by providing emergency medical services, as well as healthcare training and development programs, to those affected by disaster, disease or conflict.
Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps acts as a connector, a collaborator, a catalyst, and an advocate for change. For 40 years and in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps has helped communities forge new paths to prosperity in the face of disaster, poverty, and the impacts of climate change.
Direct Relief
Direct Relief is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical assistance and disaster relief response in the United States and internationally. Direct Relief works to expand access to medicine and healthcare by equipping doctors and nurses with lifesaving medical resources.
International Committee of the Red Cross
Established in 1863, the ICRC operates worldwide, helping people affected by conflict and armed violence and promoting laws that protect victims of war. An independent and neutral organization, its mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We are based in Geneva, Switzerland, and employ over 20,000 people in more than 100 countries. The ICRC is funded mainly by voluntary donations from governments and from National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
Americares
Americares saves lives and improves health for people affected by poverty or disaster so they can reach their full potential. Americares meets urgent health needs of survivors in shelters and those cut off from care, often in remote areas.
CARE
CARE works around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty and achieve social justice. Whether it is a sudden emergency or an ongoing crisis, CARE works to aid people in need around the world.
Donate to any of these organizations using the Groundswell app.
Earth Day: Celebrate with These Nonprofit Organizations
As the world celebrates Earth Day on April 22, we are shining a spotlight on one of the greatest threats to this planet: climate change. It is an issue that the United Nations calls a defining crisis of our time. And many Americans agree, with over 60% believing that governments are not doing enough to address climate change. In five of the last six years, costs from climate and weather-related disasters have exceeded $100 billion annually, intensifying the need to support nonprofits focused on tackling the challenges head on.
Consider supporting one of these high-impact climate change charities fighting to save our planet.
The Clean Air Task Force (CATF)
The Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a nonprofit environmental organization that focuses on reducing air pollution and promoting clean energy solutions. The organization was founded in 1996 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
What does Clean Air Task Force do?
CATF works to advance policies and technologies that can reduce harmful air pollutants, including greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. They collaborate with government agencies, industry leaders, and other organizations to promote clean energy solutions such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the electrification of transportation.
In addition to policy advocacy, CATF also conducts scientific research and analysis to identify the most effective solutions for reducing air pollution and improving public health. They work to educate the public and raise awareness about the importance of clean air and a healthy environment.
What has Clean Air Task Force accomplished?
Some of CATF's notable achievements include contributing to the development of the Acid Rain Program in the United States, which successfully reduced sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from power plants. They have also been involved in the development of clean energy policies in several states, including Massachusetts and New York.
The Clean Air Task Force is a respected and influential organization that is making a significant impact on reducing air pollution and promoting clean energy solutions.
Action for the Climate Emergency
Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE) is a UK-based grassroots organization focused on climate change activism and advocating for government action on the climate crisis. The organization was founded in 2019 and has since grown to become a national network of local groups.
What is Action for Climate Emergency’s mission?
ACE's mission is to build a mass movement of people demanding urgent action on the climate emergency. They work to mobilize communities and individuals to take action through protests, lobbying, and other forms of direct action. The organization also promotes education and awareness-raising around climate issues, with a focus on empowering individuals and communities to take positive action.
What does Action for Climate Emergency do?
ACE's campaigns and initiatives focus on a range of issues related to the climate crisis, including renewable energy, divestment from fossil fuels, and ending government subsidies for the fossil fuel industry. They also advocate for policies that would support a just transition to a low-carbon economy, such as a Green New Deal.
In addition to their direct action campaigns, ACE also provides resources and support for local climate groups across the UK. They offer training, toolkits, and other resources to help groups organize effective campaigns and actions.
Overall, Action for the Climate Emergency is an important voice in the climate movement, working to build a powerful, grassroots movement for urgent action on the climate crisis.
Carbon 180
Carbon 180 is a US-based nonprofit organization focused on developing and promoting carbon removal solutions to address climate change. The organization was founded in 2015 and is based in Oakland, California.
What does Carbon 180 do?
Carbon 180's mission is to accelerate the transition to a net-zero carbon economy by promoting the development and deployment of carbon removal solutions. They work with policymakers, businesses, and other organizations to raise awareness about the importance of carbon removal and to advocate for policies that support its development.
The organization conducts research and analysis to identify the most promising carbon removal technologies and strategies and works to promote their deployment at scale. Carbon 180 also works to support the growth of the carbon removal industry by providing funding, technical assistance, and other forms of support to startups and other organizations working on carbon removal solutions.
What does Carbon 180 focus on?
Carbon 180's work is focused on three main areas: policy, innovation, and market development. They advocate for policies that support carbon removal, work to accelerate innovation in the field, and promote the development of markets for carbon removal solutions.
Overall, Carbon 180 is an important organization in the effort to address climate change by promoting the development and deployment of carbon removal solutions. Their work is helping to accelerate the transition to a net-zero carbon economy and reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on the environment.
Sunrise Movement Education Fund
The Sunrise Movement Education Fund is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on climate advocacy and education. The organization was founded in 2017 and is based in New York City.
What does Sunrise Movement Education Fund do?
The Sunrise Movement Education Fund's mission is to build a movement of young people and their allies to advocate for bold action on climate change. They work to engage young people in the political process and to promote policies that address the climate crisis.
Where does Sunrise Movement Education focus its efforts?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas. They advocate for policies that support a just transition to a clean energy economy, including a Green New Deal. They also work to engage young people in the political process by organizing events, rallies, and other forms of activism.
The Sunrise Movement Education Fund also provides education and training for young people on climate issues and advocacy. They offer workshops, training, and other resources to help young people learn about the climate crisis and how to advocate for change.
The organization is affiliated with the larger Sunrise Movement, which is a grassroots organization that works to mobilize young people to take action on climate change. The Sunrise Movement Education Fund provides support for the Sunrise Movement's advocacy and organizing work.
The Sunrise Movement Education Fund is an important organization in the climate movement, working to engage young people in the political process and to advocate for bold action on climate change.
Conservation International
Conservation International (CI) is a US-based nonprofit environmental organization that is focused on protecting the natural world and promoting sustainable development. The organization was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
What is Conservation International’s mission?
CI's mission is to protect nature for the benefit of humanity. They work to conserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable development around the world. The organization's work is focused on four key areas: oceans, freshwater, climate, and biodiversity.
What does Conservation International do?
CI collaborates with governments, businesses, and communities to promote conservation and sustainable development. They work to promote policies that support conservation and sustainable development and provide technical assistance and other forms of support to help implement those policies.
The organization also conducts scientific research to understand the impacts of human activity on the natural world, and to identify strategies for conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. They work to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote public engagement in conservation efforts.
CI's work is focused on several key initiatives, including the protection of tropical forests, the conservation of marine ecosystems, and the promotion of sustainable agriculture and fisheries. The organization has also been involved in the development of several international agreements related to conservation and sustainable development, including the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Conservation International is an important organization in the global environmental movement, working to protect the natural world and promote sustainable development for the benefit of both people and the planet.
Climate Solutions Accelerator
The Climate Solutions Accelerator is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy and addressing the climate crisis. The organization was founded in 2018 and is based in Charlottesville, Virginia.
What is Climate Solution Accelerator’s mission?
The Climate Solutions Accelerator's mission is to mobilize communities and promote policies that will lead to a rapid and just transition to a sustainable, clean energy economy. They work to promote the development and deployment of clean energy technologies and to support the growth of clean energy jobs and businesses.
What does Climate Solution Accelerator focus on?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including transportation, buildings, renewable energy, and climate policy. They advocate for policies that support the adoption of clean energy technologies and provide technical assistance and other forms of support to help communities and businesses transition to a clean energy economy.
The Climate Solutions Accelerator also works to raise awareness about the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for action. They organize events, workshops, and other educational programs to engage the public and promote climate action.
In addition to their advocacy work, the Climate Solutions Accelerator provides funding and support for clean energy startups and other organizations working on climate solutions. They also collaborate with other organizations and networks working on climate issues to promote collective action and impact.
The Climate Solutions Accelerator is an important organization in the effort to address the climate crisis and accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. Their work is helping to promote policies and solutions that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a more sustainable, equitable future for all.
Climate Resolve
Climate Resolve is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on addressing the impacts of climate change and promoting resilience in the face of climate-related risks. The organization was founded in 2010 and is based in Los Angeles, California.
What is Climate Resolve’s mission?
Climate Resolve's mission is to promote climate resilience and equity in communities, ecosystems, and economies. They work to advance policies and solutions that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change, and promote social and economic equity in the face of climate risks.
Where does Climate Resolve focus its efforts?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including water, energy, transportation, and land use. They work to promote policies and practices that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resilience in these areas, while also addressing the needs of vulnerable communities and ecosystems.
Climate Resolve also conducts research and analysis to better understand the impacts of climate change and the effectiveness of different policy solutions. They work to promote public awareness and engagement on climate issues and to build networks and collaborations that can help advance climate action.
In addition to their advocacy work, Climate Resolve provides technical assistance and other forms of support to help communities and businesses prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change. They work with local governments, businesses, and community organizations to identify climate risks and develop strategies to address them.
Climate Resolve is an important organization in the effort to address the impacts of climate change and promote resilience in the face of climate risks. Their work is helping to promote policies and solutions that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems, and build a more sustainable, equitable future.
The Praxis Project
The Praxis Project is a US-based nonprofit organization that works to build healthy, just, and equitable communities. The organization was founded in 2002 and is based in Oakland, California.
What is the Praxis Project’s mission?
The Praxis Project's mission is to advance community-driven solutions for social, economic, and environmental justice. They work to promote policies and practices that can help reduce health disparities and address the underlying social and economic determinants of health.
What does Praxis Project do?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including food and agriculture, health care, environmental justice, and social justice. They work with grassroots organizations and community leaders to develop and implement strategies that can improve community health and well-being.
The Praxis Project also provides training, technical assistance, and other forms of support to help build the capacity of community-based organizations to address health and social justice issues. They work to promote community engagement and leadership in decision-making processes and to build networks and collaborations that can help advance social and environmental justice.
In addition to their domestic work, The Praxis Project also engages in international advocacy and capacity-building efforts. They work to promote global health equity and to support community-led solutions to health and social justice issues around the world.
Overall, The Praxis Project is an important organization in the effort to promote healthy, just, and equitable communities. Their work is helping to address the underlying social and economic determinants of health and to build a more just and sustainable future for all.
The National Resources Defense Council
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is a US-based nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect the environment and promote sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. The organization was founded in 1970 and is based in New York City, with offices across the United States and around the world.
What is National Resources Defense Council’s mission?
The NRDC's mission is to safeguard the earth—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends. They work to promote policies and practices that can help protect the environment, promote clean energy and sustainable solutions, and protect the health and well-being of communities around the world.
What does the NRDC do?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including climate and clean energy, water and oceans, wildlife and habitat, and health and communities. They engage in research, advocacy, and litigation to promote environmental protection and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
The NRDC also works to promote public awareness and engagement on environmental issues and to build partnerships and collaborations with other organizations and stakeholders. They provide resources and support to individuals, businesses, and communities to help them reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
In addition to their domestic work, the NRDC engages in international advocacy and capacity-building efforts. They work to promote global environmental protection and support community-led solutions to environmental challenges around the world.
Overall, the NRDC is an important organization in the effort to protect the environment and promote sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Their work is helping to promote policies and practices that can protect the health and well-being of communities around the world, and to build a more sustainable future for all.
Project Drawdown
Project Drawdown is a research and communications organization that focuses on identifying and promoting the most effective solutions to reverse global warming. The organization was founded in 2014 and is based in San Francisco, California.
What is Project Drawdown’s mission?
The mission of Project Drawdown is to help the world reach "drawdown," the point at which greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere begin to decline. They work to identify and promote a wide range of solutions that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and draw carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
Project Drawdown conducts research and analysis to identify and rank the most effective solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reversing global warming. They publish this research in their annual "Drawdown Review," which ranks the top 100 solutions for addressing climate change.
What does Project Drawdown focus on most?
The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including energy, transportation, buildings, food and agriculture, land use, and materials. They work with businesses, governments, and other organizations to promote the adoption of these solutions and to help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
In addition to their research and advocacy work, Project Drawdown also provides resources and support to individuals, communities, and organizations to help them take action on climate change. They provide educational materials, tools, and resources to help people reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable solutions in their daily lives.
Overall, Project Drawdown is an important organization in the effort to reverse global warming and address the impacts of climate change. Their work is helping to identify and promote the most effective solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a more sustainable future for all.
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Hunger Awareness: Supporting Nonprofits
Hunger awareness campaigns are initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the issue of hunger and food insecurity, both locally and globally. These campaigns aim to educate people about the extent of the problem, its causes and consequences, and to inspire individuals and communities to take action to address it.
Hunger awareness campaigns can take various forms, including social media campaigns, public service announcements, fundraising events, food drives, and community outreach programs. They often involve collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.
The primary goal of these campaigns is to draw attention to the problem of hunger, which affects millions of people worldwide. According to the United Nations, an estimated 690 million people suffered from hunger in 2019. Hunger is a complex issue that is often caused by poverty, conflict, climate change, and other factors, and its impact is felt by individuals and communities around the world.
Hunger awareness campaigns aim to highlight the fact that hunger is a solvable problem, and that individuals and communities can play a role in addressing it.
By supporting organizations that provide food aid, advocating for policies that promote food security, and reducing food waste, we can work towards a future where no one goes hungry.
Here’s a list of nonprofits at the front lines of tackling world hunger:
Second Harvest Heartland
Second Harvest Heartland is a non-profit organization based in Minnesota, United States, that aims to end hunger through community partnerships and innovative programs. Founded in 2001, Second Harvest Heartland is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the country.
Second Harvest Heartland's mission is to "end hunger through community partnerships." To achieve this, the organization collects surplus food and other resources from various sources, including grocery stores, restaurants, and food manufacturers. These donations are then distributed to a network of more than 1,000 food shelves, meal programs, and other hunger-relief organizations across Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Second Harvest Heartland also offers a variety of programs to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.
Second Harvest Heartland is one of the largest food banks in the United States, distributing more than 103 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Houston Food Bank
Houston Food Bank is a non-profit organization based in Houston, Texas, that works to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1982, Houston Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the country.
Houston Food Bank's mission is to "lead the fight against hunger" by providing access to nutritious food and other resources to individuals and families in need. The organization operates a 308,000 square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to a network of more than 1,500 hunger-relief organizations across southeast Texas.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Houston Food Bank offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.
Houston Food Bank is one of the largest food banks in the United States, distributing more than 159 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Dare to Care
Dare to Care is a non-profit organization based in Louisville, Kentucky, that works to end hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1971, Dare to Care partners with more than 200 local agencies, including food pantries, shelters, and community centers, to distribute food and other resources to individuals and families in need.
Dare to Care's mission is to "lead our community to feed the hungry and conquer the cycle of need." To achieve this, the organization operates a 190,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to its partner agencies across the region.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Dare to Care offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.
Dare to Care is one of the largest food banks in Kentucky, distributing more than 20 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Neighborhood House
Neighborhood House is a non-profit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota, that works to empower individuals and families in the local community through education, advocacy, and support services. Founded in 1897, Neighborhood House offers a range of programs and services that aim to address the root causes of poverty and promote social and economic justice.
Neighborhood House's mission is to "help people gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in diverse communities." The organization provides a variety of services to support individuals and families, including adult education and job training programs, youth development programs, health and wellness services, and immigrant and refugee support services.
Neighborhood House also operates a food shelf and distribution program that provides emergency food assistance to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization partners with local food banks and grocery stores to collect and distribute food to those in need.
Neighborhood House serves more than 14,000 individuals and families each year, with a focus on supporting underserved communities and addressing systemic barriers to social and economic opportunity. The organization is committed to promoting equity and social justice in the St. Paul community and beyond.
Second Harvest Food Bank
Second Harvest Food Bank is a non-profit organization based in Silicon Valley, California, that works to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1974, Second Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the United States.
Second Harvest Food Bank's mission is to "lead the community to ensure that anyone who needs a healthy meal can get one." To achieve this, the organization operates a 75,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to a network of more than 300 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters, across Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Second Harvest Food Bank offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.
Second Harvest Food Bank is one of the largest food banks in the San Francisco Bay Area, distributing more than 94 million pounds of food in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Northwest Harvest
Northwest Harvest is a non-profit organization based in Seattle, Washington, that works to end hunger in the local community. Founded in 1967, Northwest Harvest is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the United States.
Northwest Harvest's mission is to "lead the fight for hungry people statewide to have access to nutritious food while respecting their dignity and promoting good health." To achieve this, the organization operates a statewide network of food banks, meal programs, and other partner agencies to distribute donated food and grocery items to individuals and families in need.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Northwest Harvest offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.
Northwest Harvest is one of the largest food banks in Washington State, distributing more than 32 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Feeding America
Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, with a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 partner agencies that work together to fight hunger and food insecurity in local communities. Founded in 1979, Feeding America operates as a nationwide network of charitable organizations that distribute donated food and grocery items to individuals and families in need.
Feeding America's mission is to "feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger." The organization works to address hunger and poverty through a variety of programs and initiatives, including food distribution, disaster relief, child hunger programs, nutrition education, and advocacy efforts.
Feeding America's network of food banks and partner agencies serve every county in the United States, providing access to nutritious food for millions of Americans each year. In 2020, the organization distributed more than 6 billion meals to individuals and families facing hunger.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, Feeding America is committed to addressing the root causes of hunger and advocating for policies and programs that promote food security and economic opportunity for all. The organization works with lawmakers, corporations, and community partners to promote solutions that can help end hunger and poverty in the United States.
Food Forward
Food Forward is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to reduce food waste and increase food access in the local community. Founded in 2009, Food Forward collects surplus fresh produce from local farmers' markets, wholesalers, and backyard fruit trees, and distributes it to local food banks, pantries, and other hunger relief organizations.
Food Forward's mission is to "fight hunger and prevent food waste by rescuing fresh surplus produce, connecting this abundance with people in need and inspiring others to do the same." The organization's produce recovery and distribution program, known as the "Harvest Program," is run entirely by volunteers who collect and transport donated produce to hunger relief organizations across Southern California.
In addition to its produce recovery efforts, Food Forward also offers a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting food justice and sustainability. These include education and outreach programs, community-building events, and advocacy initiatives that aim to address systemic issues of food insecurity and food waste.
Since its founding, Food Forward has rescued more than 100 million pounds of fresh produce and donated it to hunger relief organizations in Southern California. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable food system, where everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food.
Hollywood Food Coalition
The Hollywood Food Coalition is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to provide meals and other essential services to people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1987, the organization operates a nightly meal service, seven days a week, serving hot, nutritious meals to individuals and families in need.
The Hollywood Food Coalition's mission is to "provide a reliable source of nutritious meals and support services to the homeless and food insecure people in Hollywood, and to foster a sense of community among our volunteers and patrons." In addition to its meal service, the organization offers a variety of support services, including medical and dental care, mental health counseling, and legal aid, among others.
The Hollywood Food Coalition operates with the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, who prepare and serve meals, provide services, and help with fundraising and other tasks. The organization is committed to providing a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment for all individuals who come to its meal service, and to promoting social justice and community-building initiatives that address the root causes of hunger and homelessness.
Since its founding, the Hollywood Food Coalition has served millions of meals to people experiencing food insecurity and homelessness in Los Angeles. The organization is committed to continuing its efforts to provide essential services and support to the most vulnerable members of the local community.
Meals on Wheels America
Meals on Wheels America is a non-profit organization based in Arlington, Virginia, that works to address senior hunger and isolation by providing nutritious meals and other support services to seniors in need. The organization was founded in 1954 and has since grown to become a national network of local programs that serve seniors in communities across the United States.
Meals on Wheels America's mission is to "empower local community programs to improve the health and quality of life of the seniors they serve so that no one is left hungry or isolated." The organization supports local programs by providing funding, training, and other resources to help them operate effectively and efficiently.
In addition to its support for local programs, Meals on Wheels America also advocates for policies and programs that address senior hunger and isolation at the national level. The organization works with lawmakers, corporations, and other stakeholders to promote solutions that can help ensure that every senior has access to nutritious food and a supportive community.
Meals on Wheels America's network of local programs serves millions of meals each year to seniors in need, delivering hot meals to their homes or providing meals at community centers and other gathering places. The organization's programs also offer a variety of support services, such as home visits, transportation assistance, and socialization activities, that help seniors stay connected and engaged with their communities.
Overall, Meals on Wheels America is committed to helping seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life by providing them with the essential support services they need to thrive.
Move for Hunger
Move for Hunger is a non-profit organization that works to reduce food waste and fight hunger by mobilizing the relocation industry to donate non-perishable food items to food banks and other hunger relief organizations. The organization was founded in 2009 and is based in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
Move for Hunger's mission is to "mobilize the moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to reduce food waste and fight hunger." The organization works with moving companies, apartment communities, and other businesses to collect unopened, non-perishable food items that are typically discarded during moves or apartment clean-outs, and donates them to local food banks and pantries.
Move for Hunger has partnered with more than 1,000 moving companies across the United States and Canada, as well as with hundreds of apartment communities, to collect and donate food to those in need. The organization also provides resources and training to its partners to help them promote food donation and reduce food waste in their operations.
In addition to its food donation efforts, Move for Hunger also works to raise awareness about hunger and food waste, and advocates for policy solutions that can help address these issues. The organization has been recognized for its innovative approach to fighting hunger and reducing food waste and has received numerous awards and accolades for its work.
Overall, Move for Hunger is committed to using the power of the relocation industry to fight hunger and reduce food waste, and to create a more equitable and sustainable food system for all.
Feed the Children
Feed the Children is a non-profit organization based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, that works to fight childhood hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world. The organization was founded in 1979 and has since grown to become one of the largest international charities in the world, with operations in more than 10 countries.
Feed the Children's mission is to "provide hope and resources for those without life's essentials." The organization provides food, educational resources, and other support services to children and families in need, both domestically and internationally.
In the United States, Feed the Children operates a variety of programs to support children and families in low-income communities, including food distribution, backpack programs that provide food to children for weekends and holidays when school meals are not available, and disaster relief efforts in areas affected by natural disasters. The organization also works to provide educational resources, such as school supplies and books, to children in need.
Internationally, Feed the Children operates a variety of programs to support children and families in developing countries, including food distribution, clean water initiatives, and child sponsorship programs that provide education, healthcare, and other support services to children in need.
Feed the Children's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to providing hope and resources to those who need them most, and to creating a world where every child has access to the essentials they need to thrive.
City Harvest
City Harvest is a non-profit organization based in New York City that works to fight hunger and food waste by rescuing excess food from restaurants, grocery stores, and other food businesses and redistributing it to those in need. The organization was founded in 1982 and has since grown to become the largest food rescue organization in New York City.
City Harvest's mission is to "end hunger in communities throughout New York City by rescuing and redistributing food, educating the public, and addressing the root causes of poverty." The organization works with more than 2,500 food donors and 400 community food programs to collect and distribute more than 66 million pounds of food each year.
In addition to its food rescue efforts, City Harvest also provides educational resources and training to its partner organizations and the broader community to help promote healthy eating habits, reduce food waste, and address the root causes of hunger and poverty.
City Harvest's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable food system for all, and to ensuring that no New Yorker goes hungry due to a lack of access to nutritious food.
Capital Area Food Bank
The Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that works to fight hunger and improve nutrition in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The organization was founded in 1980 and has since grown to become one of the largest food banks in the region.
CAFB's mission is to "create access to good, healthy food in every community." The organization works with more than 450 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community organizations, to distribute more than 30 million pounds of food each year to individuals and families in need.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, CAFB also operates a variety of programs to promote healthy eating habits and improve nutrition in the communities it serves. These programs include nutrition education classes, cooking demonstrations, and community gardens that provide fresh, healthy produce to residents in low-income neighborhoods.
CAFB's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that every member of the community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Alameda County Community Food Bank
The Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB) is a non-profit organization based in Oakland, California that works to fight hunger and improve nutrition in Alameda County, which includes cities such as Oakland, Berkeley, and Hayward. The organization was founded in 1985 and has since grown to become one of the largest food banks in Northern California.
ACCFB's mission is to "end hunger in Alameda County by providing nutritious food and support to our neighbors in need." The organization works with a network of more than 300 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community organizations, to distribute more than 30 million pounds of food each year to individuals and families in need.
In addition to its food distribution efforts, ACCFB also operates a variety of programs to promote healthy eating habits and improve nutrition in the communities it serves. These programs include nutrition education classes, cooking demonstrations, and community gardens that provide fresh, healthy produce to residents in low-income neighborhoods.
ACCFB's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that every member of the community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Food Recovery Network
Food Recovery Network (FRN) is a non-profit organization based in College Park, Maryland, that is dedicated to fighting food waste and hunger. The organization was founded in 2011 by a group of college students who wanted to find a solution to the problem of food waste on their campus.
FRN works with college and university campuses across the United States to recover surplus food from dining halls, sporting events, and other sources, and redistribute it to local organizations that feed people in need. The organization also works with restaurants, grocery stores, and other food businesses to rescue excess food and donate it to local hunger relief organizations.
Since its founding, FRN has recovered more than 3 million pounds of food and donated it to people in need. The organization's efforts not only help to fight hunger but also reduce food waste and promote sustainability.
In addition to its food recovery efforts, FRN also operates a variety of educational and advocacy programs to raise awareness about food waste and promote sustainable food practices. These programs include workshops, training sessions, and advocacy campaigns that engage students and community members in the fight against food waste and hunger.
FRN's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more sustainable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that no one goes hungry due to lack of access to nutritious food.
Unleash the Power of Your Employee Giving Program: A Complete Guide (original)
Your Best Practices Guide for Maximizing Your Employee Giving Participation
This guide provides you with tools and tips to maximize employee participation in your giving program, not just when the program launches but throughout the entire year.
Leveraging our expertise in the social impact and nonprofit sectors, Groundswell is here to support you and your employees on your impact journey.
5 Ways Employees Participate in Their Corporate Giving Program
Employee giving programs typically provide employees with various options to contribute, such as:
- Payroll Deductions: Employees can choose to have a certain amount deducted from their regular paychecks and donated to a charity of their choice. This allows for convenient and consistent giving.
- Matching Gifts: Some companies offer to match their employees' charitable contributions up to a certain limit. For example, if an employee donates $100 to a nonprofit organization, the company may match that amount with an additional $100, effectively doubling the impact of the employee's donation.
- Volunteer Programs: Employee giving programs can encourage and facilitate volunteerism. Companies may provide paid time off for employees to volunteer during work hours (also known as volunteer time off), organize group volunteer activities, or offer incentives for volunteer participation.
- In-kind Donations: Instead of monetary contributions, employees may have the option to donate goods, services, or other resources to charitable organizations. This could include donating clothing, office supplies, computers, or expertise in a particular field.
- Fundraising Events: Companies may organize fundraising events or campaigns in which employees can participate. This could involve activities like charity walks, runs, auctions, or bake sales to raise funds for a specific cause.
The specific structure and features of employee giving programs can vary from one company to another. These programs not only foster a culture of giving within the organization but also demonstrate the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement.
Read related articles
- Is Your Donation Matching Program Inclusive and Equitable?
- The Workplace Giving Handbook: Everything You Need to Know
- 8 Workplace Giving Trends and How to Use Them
A Playbook for Increasing Engagement in Your Employee Giving Program
Employee giving programs can be a great way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, engage employees, and make a positive impact on the community. But too often, employees don’t take full advantage of the opportunities provided through their giving programs, leaving billions of funds unmatched every year.
For some, this is due to either a lack of awareness about their company's giving program or, for others, an unwieldy donation portal and match process that leaves employees frustrated. Groundswell's technology brings corporate giving into the 21st century and unleashes the modern philanthropist in all of your employees.
Whether your goal is to grow the percentage of employees participating in your giving program, increase the number of funds going to nonprofits, or to better understand the causes that matter most to your employees, these best practices can help you achieve those goals.
By reducing the administrative burden required to launch and implement a Giving Program, Groundswell frees you up to focus on what matters most: inspiring your employees and having a positive impact on the world through your company’s support for charitable causes.
6 Tips for Maximizing Participation in Your Employee Giving Program
1. Communicate Early and with Intention
Communication is a critical component of any successful giving program. We want you to have the tools to effectively share program details and encourage participation - whether launching a new employee giving program or transitioning from an existing one.
The key is to help employees understand why and how Groundswell fits into your company’s broader vision around corporate citizenship and employee engagement - and build enthusiasm around the potential to collectively have a positive impact on the world through donations to charities.
Program Launch Communications:
Here are some ways to think about the program launch. Depending on whether this is a new program or transitioning from an existing one, your adoption plan may change. You don’t want to inundate employees with too much information, while also providing them with the resources they need to successfully enroll in the program and easily engage on the platform.
- Keep it short, and emphasize that the intent is to center employees in corporate philanthropy and make it as easy as possible for employees to give.
- If the Giving Program is new: Why now? How does it align with your company’s values? Why is Groundswell a good fit for the company?
- If the program is replacing an existing program: Why now? What’s different (and better) from the previous program? New matching or gifting features? It may also be helpful to highlight the tax effectiveness of the donor-advised fund model.
Monthly Program Communications
In order to encourage ongoing participation in your program, and for employees to take advantage of the gifts and matches offered by your company, we encourage monthly nudges to remind employees about the program.
Monthly Cause Spotlights
- Start off the month by highlighting some timely causes - make sure to link to Groundswell-curated “Featured Cause” Portfolios that Groundswell uploads to the dashboard every month for a hand-off approach to spotlighting.
- Share “Cause of the Month” information with employees, leveraging the toolkits found in Groundswell’s Resource Center.
Engagement & Impact Reporting
- Utilize the data that you can find on your company Dashboard or download via CSV to highlight some of your company’s collective impact - including a percentage of employees enrolled, the total dollar amount that has been donated, as well as top nonprofit donation recipients and/or cause areas.
- This helps employees see how their individual donations are having a larger impact as part of your company’s collective giving program.
2. Drive Early Adoption through Gifts
Gifts can be a terrific way to get employees to sign up and start using the Groundswell platform immediately. Here are a few tips on how to drive early adoption using the Gifting feature:
- Launch with a one-time gift into employees’ Giving Accounts that will show up as soon as employees enroll. This can be a great way to create buzz about the program and empower employees to donate and make an impact immediately - even before they contribute their own funds to their Groundswell account.
- Throughout the year, provide unexpected, ad hoc gifts into employees’ accounts - for work anniversaries, milestones, great performance, etc.
- A way to make it fun is to do a lottery at All Hands meetings by randomly selecting an employee to receive $25 in their Groundswell account. Follow this link or reach out to the Groundswell Customer Success team to learn more.
3. Inspire Engagement through Matching
- Set up a matching program that immediately doubles the impact when an employee puts funds into their Groundswell Giving Account. This creates a feeling of “we’re in this together” - and drives home the message about an equitable approach to corporate philanthropy.
- A match program can run for an entire year, or be tailored to specific months.
- With the Groundswell match happening at the point of contributing funds to the Groundswell account, employees can tangibly see and feel what it means to double the impact for the charities and causes that matter most to them.
4. Leverage Cause Campaigns & Respond to the Emergent Events
Planned Campaigns:
- Utilize a Social Impact Cause Calendar to plan monthly or bi-monthly communications to employees highlighting specific causes - with resources to educate employees about the cause, and a curated list of nonprofits most relevant to the cause. You can refer to Groundswell’s monthly cause portfolios that are updated to reflect timely causes and issues.
- Tip: Plan your annual budget to launch match campaigns focused on specific charities or cause areas throughout the year.
Unforeseen Events:
- Utilize Groundswell’s curated list of best-in-class nonprofits responding to disasters in the United States or globally. Being able to quickly and confidently point your employees to vetted nonprofits to donate to shows that you are responsive as a company and empowering employees to take action in moments of crisis.
- Tip: Keep a portion of your annual budget in reserve so that you can match employee donations and/or provide gifts to employees to expand the impact in response to the unforeseen emergency.
5. Engage Employee Resource Groups
Another mechanism to center employees in corporate philanthropy and recognize their own lived experiences: provide Employee Resource Groups (ERG) a platform to speak to key cause areas (e.g. AAPI Awareness, Black History Month, etc).
- ERGs can take the opportunity to recommend nonprofits that they think are most effective and related to the cause, and share their commitment to specific causes with the tag-line “My cause is ____ “
- Tip: Solicit recommendations from the Employee Resource Group for books to read, films, and documentaries to watch, and podcasts to listen to. This can generate a deeper understanding of causes and lead to engagement via donations to support the causes.
6. Lean Into End-of-Year Giving Spirit
30% of annual giving happens in December, with about 10% of all annual donations coming in the last three days of the year. For nonprofits, this can be a critical time to raise funds and prepare programming budgets for the next year.
You can leverage Groundswell's Giving Tuesday resources to launch an end-of-year donation campaign, featuring specific cause areas and nonprofits.
Tip: Set a budget aside for a surprise end-of-year gift - leveraging the fact that a large percentage of people prefer to donate at the end of the year.
Groundswell is your ally in corporate philanthropy.
Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.
Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.
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