Over the last several years it’s become very popular for companies to promote volunteer work as part of their social responsibility initiatives. Volunteer work gives employees an opportunity to break away from their daily tasks and put their skills to use in other ways. Research has shown that companies that encourage volunteer work outside of the workplace have seen a shift in employee engagement. Engaged employees are happier, healthier and perform at a higher level. This leads to a lower turnover rate for the company.

Starting an Employee Volunteer Program will boost morale, motivation and team building in your company. It's a great way to show corporate support for the activities that employees are participating in and could help to leverage contributions to the nonprofits your company partners with.

According to The Deloitte 2011 Volunteer IMPACT Survey Employee Volunteer Programs will:

• Develop employee skills and competencies such as communication, planning, project management, problem-solving, budgeting and listening skills
• Spur innovation and creativity
• Help build community and cohesion inside the workforce
• Provide leadership opportunities and improves employee relations
• Help motivate the workforce
• Attribute to higher levels of life satisfaction, sense of control over life and feeling physically and emotionally healthier (UnitedHealthcare / VolunteerMatch Do Good Live Well Study. 2010)