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We humans are deeply social beings. Our early ancestors relied on tribal communities for a sense of safety and belonging, and this need remains rooted within our biology. Even today, we don’t just enjoy interacting with others—scientists increasingly think social connection is as important to our survival as food, water, and shelter. But it’s what we accomplish within this collective that makes humans truly special.
While one individual can achieve so much good, people who come together genuinely change the world. Remember the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge from 2014? What started as a fun dare between friends soon ballooned into a global community event, drawing everyone from schoolchildren to presidents and raising upwards of $115 million for motor neuron disease.
At Soles4Souls, we believe these collective initiatives are the most effective way to make real social impact. And companies like yours enjoy a ready-made community of hard-working, talented people—your employees—all primed to make a real difference. Let’s explore how, and why, you should get started.
“Employee engagement, environmental stewardship, economic empowerment … all align with company and philanthropic priorities.”
- Soles4Souls Partner
Warm-glow giving can form the backbone of productivity
Alongside a profound need for community, we humans display another interesting behavioral quirk. While we like to do good because we know it’s the right thing to do, research also shows that giving and acts of kindness lead to the “warm glow” effect, including increased feelings of well-being and happiness. Simply, philanthropy makes us feel better about ourselves. So, when it comes to helping others, sometimes it’s okay to be a little selfish.
Shifting our attention to the workplace, employers who give staff the chance to contribute to meaningful progress at work see this greater life satisfaction seep into productivity and retention, too.
Employees working in companies with volunteering systems report five times higher levels of wellbeing, while 70% believe volunteer activities boost morale more than company-sponsored happy hours. As a result, staff turnover drops by an average of 57%, annual productivity gains are at least $5,996 per volunteer and more than three-quarters (77%) of consumers would rather buy from, or work with, companies who help make the world a better place.
Supporting your people to come together around a good cause, such as Soles4Souls, is an ultra-effective way to boost your staff engagement. So, how does that look for you at work?
Build your own program to maximize your impact
The beauty of a partnership with Soles4Souls is that you can craft it in any way you like, no matter your sector. You don’t have to be in fashion to support us, for instance – companies in sectors from e-commerce to financial services regularly donate their time, funds, skills, and resources to help our mission.
Your employees could organize a fundraiser, come together for a lunch and learn session, arrange a fitness challenge or tailor an event to align with your vision. Many of these initiatives can be held virtually, and customized with the support of Soles4Souls. Or instead, perhaps you’d prefer to directly contribute financial donations to Soles4Souls, supporting initiatives that empower entrepreneurs and people in need around the world.
Even better, your company can get creative and combine both employee engagement and company resources: think matching payroll donations, organizing a skills-based employee volunteer day at a donation center, or hosting a panel about circular business models and inviting your partners to take part.
However you do it, participating in a community-led initiative with Soles4Souls is a powerful way for your company to make a tangible social impact. To discover how to get started, please contact robinw@soles4souls.org.
