When dedicated actions, team building and a compassionate culture are sanctioned by those at the top of a company, it’s seen and felt throughout its workforce through the decisions, demeanor and performance of all employees.
The most meaningful experiences that can bond a group of people into such a work culture are ones which unite all levels of workers towards the common cause of helping others less fortunate than themselves.
Start Locally
A quick Google search can help connect your company to a variety of local community agencies, groups and initiatives that all require help or support in some way, shape or form. The key to finding a cause that will unite and bring about the best in your team is to find a situation where there can be face to face interactions with the very people you aim to help. An example of this is how for the past 2 years we’ve been providing gifts in support of the Kitchener Salvation Army and Cambridge Shelter Corporation which are both local charities in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. It’s fun for the team, a great cause, and an especially satisfying moment when the gifts are personally delivered.
Determine Staff Interests
Helping others as a team builds relationships, provides bonding experiences and puts all levels of employees on the same side of the table in a soup kitchen or at a local community fundraiser. If as leaders, we can find out which aspects of the community our employees wish to support, it empowers and produces a sincere buy-in from them that no corporate retreat or inspirational speaker can match.
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
As well, being given paid time and company resources to formulate and carry out community involvement will certainly go a long way to ensuring participation and the knowledge that company Leadership is fully invested in the endeavor. Powerful interactions that signify just how valued and appreciated all members of your staff are go a long way. This past year we supported Movember as a team and it was a great way to bring everyone together.
A Win-Win Outcome
Building great relationships within the community as well as across employee teams, while helping others, brings a powerful return to the workplace. Reinvesting business skills into organizing, fundraising and giving back to others demonstrates serious dedication and brings out the compassion in everyone. At the end of the day, the pride our employees will feel in themselves and their company will be worth the effort.