Organizations in Phoenix have been faced with two logistical challenges – an increased demand for services, and the fact that volunteering rates hit a record-low in 2020 – both of these fueled exponentially by the pandemic. Despite these challenges, our community has demonstrated how strong and resilient we are by finding new ways to reach out to one another, support our local businesses and help those in need.
While regular in-person and group volunteer efforts were paused in 2020 and early 2021, many companies, including mine, found ways to safely contribute and give back to nonprofits in need of ongoing support. At Bank of America, one of the ways we aim to address key issues fundamental to economic mobility and social progress is by fostering a strong culture of employee giving and providing the flexibility and resources our teams need to give back. That includes providing paid time off to volunteer, matching charitable donations, and awarding volunteer grants of up to $500 per employee or retiree to eligible nonprofits of their choice.
Most recently, as a team we dedicated time to spring cleaning in support of Goodwill and UMOM New Day Centers, two donation-dependent organizations open to community support. During a home renovation, I had the opportunity to volunteer more than 100 hours of my time to sorting and donating clothes, hygiene items, household goods, and furniture while cleaning out my house. And I wasn’t alone! Many of my 9,500+ Arizona colleagues cleaned out their closets, cupboards, garages, and pantries in search of items others could benefit from.
While we look forward to engaging directly with the community and with one another again, it has also been uniquely rewarding to turn seemingly small, isolated tasks like cleaning into community efforts that can have lasting impacts across our region, especially in light of the past year. UMOM New Day Centers, for example, will use new or gently used items they receive to meet the basic needs of those they serve. That includes families transitioning out of homelessness who are faced with a new challenge: furnishing their homes with everyday necessities.
As restrictions are lifting, it is important to keep in mind that most service-based organizations never closed during the pandemic and continue to look for volunteers as they meet increased demand. If you are looking for local volunteer opportunities, the Phoenix area has many incredible organizations open to support. Bank of America teammates have enjoyed volunteering at Benevilla, a West Valley nonprofit focused on enriching lives of senior citizens, adults with disabilities, children, and the families who care for them. Food banks, such as St. Mary’s Food Bank, are actively accepting donations of non-perishable food items to be made available to low-income families. You may also consider getting involved with St. Joseph the Worker to help those experiencing hardships to enter the workforce, or donating professional attire to Dress for Success, an organization that promotes the economic independence of low-income women by providing attire for job interviews and career development.
Whether it is organizing a food drive at your office or running a virtual fundraiser to collect donations, we all have the power to make a profound difference. Community support like this helps our local nonprofits continue to carry out their missions and get closer to achieving their goals, despite the challenges presented this past year.
I encourage you to support a cause you are passionate about to raise awareness, foster connectivity and advocate for community engagement. Together, we can make a difference and help to ensure a brighter future for everyone.
Valerie Jones is Senior Vice President of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Bank of America
