During the holiday season, we’re constantly encouraged to give — whether buying gifts for loved ones, donating to charities or even taking time for self-care. For some, the word “give” may have lost its meaning, buried under commercialism or overuse. But I want to remind you how powerful this simple word truly is and how the act of giving can transform your own life, increase your team’s happiness and impact your business’s success. All through one tiny word: *give*.
When I began my career, like many people, I was excited and gave 110% to everything I did. However, as time passed, I found myself needing something more than just the satisfaction of work. I started feeling burnt out and longed for fulfillment beyond the office. That’s when I discovered volunteering — *giving* my time to a local charity. That decision changed my life.
On tough days at work, volunteering became my refuge. It offered me a fresh perspective and a chance to refocus and left me energized for the challenges ahead. I fell in love with the sense of purpose it brought. Eventually, I found ways to support charities through my workplace, which gave me even more fulfillment. In fact, my passion for giving grew so strong that I left my job to work full-time at the nonprofit I had been volunteering for. While that may seem like an extreme change, volunteering filled a void my job couldn’t. It reshaped how I saw the world, allowing me to give something as valuable as money — my time.
Giving doesn’t just benefit you personally; it can also positively impact your team. Research from Business News Daily shows that volunteering helps employees feel happier, more empowered and better able to develop or share their talents. It fosters leadership and creates a better workplace culture. When employees feel they’re part of something bigger than just their job, they feel united and motivated. This sense of purpose can be transformative for your team.
Beyond that, people today are increasingly aligning themselves with companies that are socially responsible. Likewise, employees are seeking employers who contribute to charitable causes. In short, giving is not just good for the soul — it’s also good for business.
Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back. However, if volunteering isn’t feasible, there are plenty of other ways to make a difference. Here’s how:
- Choose a Charity: Involve your employees in selecting a charity that resonates with them. When they feel personally connected, the impact is greater.
- Decide How to Give: There are many ways to give:
- Volunteer as a team, individually or as a company.
- Organize a donation drive for items the charity needs. Encourage employees to bring contributions, and make it fun by turning it into a team contest with a prize for the most collected.
- Deliver donations in person as a group to further engage your team.
- Consider a matching gift program — where employees donate money and the company matches their contributions.
- Plan Your Campaign: While the holidays are an excellent time for giving, charities need support all year long. Find the right time for your team to make the most impact.
- Promote Your Efforts: Share your giving initiatives both internally and externally. It will boost morale within your team and provide visibility for the charity you support, amplifying their cause.
Ultimately, no matter how you decide to give, you’ll find that what you receive in return is much more than you expect, where women can flourish without burning out.
About Alicia Gleed, Community Building Officer, The Road Home
With over 18 years at The Road Home, Alicia Gleed is dedicated to addressing homelessness and empowering individuals in the community. Alicia has held various roles in the agency, including Director of Marketing and Communications, and is currently serving as the Community Building Officer.
Prior to this, Alicia taught English and Art to junior high school students and coached cheerleading. A graduate of Utah Valley University with a Bachelor’s in English Education, Alicia has also completed numerous continuing education courses in art and marketing.
*Any reference obtained from this blog to a specific initiative, issue or topic does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the Salt Lake Chamber. The views and opinions expressed in this blog do not necessarily reflect those of the Salt Lake Chamber.
