It’s no secret that the next generation of corporate leaders expects more from their employers. From flexible or remote work schedules and unique office spaces to extra perks in their benefits packages, employees are holding companies to higher standards, which also includes their expectations for an engaging corporate culture.
Younger generations — particularly Gen Z — want to work for employers that offer authenticity, transparency and belonging. This trend finds companies developing more creative and intentional programs that serve to both unite and elevate employees’ experiences, not only with their immediate team but with others across the organization.
This focus on providing purpose-driven teambuilding fosters authentic connections, meets employees’ desires and reinforces company values that help to build a stronger corporate culture. One of the most dynamic opportunities for company-wide unification can be found through partnerships with nonprofit organizations.
Beyond traditional donation drives and volunteer days, collaborative philanthropy-related events can provide a platform to build a strong and cohesive dynamic through meaningful interactions and powerful community impact.
Here are some ideas to take team bonding from “trust falls” to memorable collaboration:
Friday Movie Happy Hour
Reimagine “movie night” with a purpose. Host a Friday afternoon screening of a socially relevant documentary aligned with a nonprofit partner’s mission. Follow it up with a panel discussion featuring nonprofit leaders and employees for an open discussion to encourage open communication and critical thinking around social issues and tangible solutions.
“Day in the Life” Student Shadowing Program
Partner with a youth-focused nonprofit or school to host a job-shadowing day. Employees are paired with students to gain insight into the host company, offer mentorships, résumé assistance and more. This is a tangible way for employees to connect with the community and invest in future workforce talent.
Innovation for Impact Contest
Transform employees into social entrepreneurs. Teams pitch ideas that address community need for a chance to win a prize for the most viable solution, which is then funded by the company or employee fundraising efforts and implemented alongside a nonprofit. This model marries creativity, collaboration and corporate citizenship.
Speed Dating-Style Changemaker Challenge
Invite nonprofit leaders to speak about their work and impact at individual tables for 10 minutes each, then rotate! Challenge employees to sign up for volunteer activities or small fundraising goals at the nonprofit tables that most interest them. Allowing employees the chance to hear from a variety of organizations throughout the event increases awareness of the many causes throughout the community in a fun and action-driven way.
“Stacks & Stories” Pancake Breakfast or Brunch
Combine storytelling and service with a philanthropic breakfast or brunch featuring inspiring impact stories from local nonprofits. Create a storyboard wall where employees can share their own stories of volunteerism and community impact.
Charitable Talent Showcase
Invite employees to showcase (and donate) their talents to a nonprofit partner. Whether baking for a charitable bake sale, creating art for families in the community or writing short stories for classrooms, employees will feel a sense of value in themselves and a connection to their colleagues, all while benefiting the causes that are important to them.
“Mission Possible” Spy-Themed Gala
Reimagine that black-tie gala with a playful philanthropic twist. Host an interactive spy-themed evening where guests take on “missions” tied to fundraising goals and community challenges. Use livestreamed leaderboards and impact stories to keep guests engaged and excited.
The Garden of Impact
Host an outdoor event in partnership with an environmental-focused nonprofit. Create hands-on engagement through tree-planting dedications, recognition of employee sustainability efforts and garden starter kits to distribute in the community.
A Night at the Museum (of Change)
Transform company space into an interactive gallery or exhibit. Each highlights a different (and tangible) aspect of a nonprofit partner’s work and mission. From pots and pans featured by a local food bank to unique medical devices showcased by a children’s hospital to a mobile library on wheels thanks to the local city’s library, the possibilities are endless.
As employees continue to seek meaningful work experience and environments, it’s essential that employers lean in to provide opportunities to engage with their colleagues while being empowered to support the nonprofits and causes that are most important to them. By reimagining or making tweaks to give-back activities, companies can build lasting connections — both with their employees and teams, and throughout their communities.
Ryan Narramore, APR, is vice president of brand and marketing at Valley of the Sun United Way. Valley of the Sun United Way envisions a community where every child, family and individual is healthy, has a safe place to live and every opportunity to succeed in school, work and life.
