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Short-term volunteer work is a rewarding activity that many people want to be involved in. But sometimes it can be difficult to fit it into a busy work schedule. That’s why more and more companies are combining volunteer events with team building activities.
Since volunteering frequently can be a challenge, one way you can make an impact while being engaged at work is by managing time wisely, through these hybrid activities. Before we talk about how you can help your company incorporate more do-good work into your schedule, let’s talk about why.
Why include volunteer work in a team building itinerary
Working as a team can be one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences at the workplace. Team volunteering benefits, not just the recipients of the good deed, but the volunteers as well:
Giving back has been proven to be good for both the body and the brain.
Serving others in a carefully-vetted volunteer program gives you the fulfillment of doing good without exploiting others.
Making a change in the community as a team can deepen your bonds at work and give your job an added sense of purpose — making employees happier in the long-term.
Participating in both work engagements and volunteer work at once can help employees feel like they have more time.
Being involved in the community is a great way to make new connections and gain a wider perspective.
But how can you volunteer while also having a busy schedule? Simple: make it a part of your work culture by adding it to your team building itinerary. Here are some ideas for how to do just that.
One good deed daily
Just as teamwork shouldn’t begin and end during a team building activity, neither should doing good. Squeeze in one good deed every day, for a limited period or throughout the year. This way, even if the team building itinerary is packed with non-volunteer activities, you can still make an impact with simple acts of kindness. Here are some ideas you can implement easily:
Organize a week-long book drive for the local library
Raise money for a month to donate to shelters or hospitals in your area
Enroll in a program where you cook for the homeless
Even if the number of working hours has increased for Americans lately, volunteer rates are continuously climbing. This shows that it is possible to give back even if you are very busy! Start with one small deed a day.
Multi-tasking
Another way to squeeze in volunteer work in your team building activities is to try to multi-task. It can become a struggle, but it’s all about finding a balance. Here are some examples:
Organize a charitable marathon or race for your coworkers as part of your team building itinerary. This way, the sports activity will encourage friendly competition as well as teamwork, while also supporting an organization you care about.
Book a Visit.org social impact experience — allowing you to participate in team building activities like yoga, a cooking class, or a walking tour — while 100% of revenue goes towards a good cause!
All in all, volunteer work that’s done alongside your coworkers has incredible benefits for both the people involved and for the company. Productivity levels will increase after such a rewarding experience, and employees will have a much more positive mindset after giving back. So, try to squeeze volunteer work in your team building itinerary, regardless of how busy it may be. In the end, it will all be worth it.