Contact:
Kimberli Meadows, 202-729-3238
KMeadows@pointsoflight.org

POINTS OF LIGHT FOUNDATION PUBLISHES HOW-TO RESOURCE TO ENGAGE AMERICA'S COMPANIES IN EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 2, 2004)—The Points of Light Foundation announced today the release of the 2nd edition of the publication, Developing Excellence in Workplace Volunteer Programs, a how-to guide based on the Foundation's Principles of Excellence for Workplace Volunteering.

The publication includes a CD ROM with worksheets, award-winning company examples, tips from experts for any size business to tailor the information to their business culture and needs. The goal of the publication is to help employee volunteer program managers execute effective volunteer strategies, set goals and policies, engage volunteers in the workplace, and demonstrate business and community leadership.

"This resource is available at a crucial time in America’s history because more businesses are partnering with local organizations and government agencies to address community concerns," said Robert K. Goodwin, president and chief executive officer of the Points of Light Foundation. "Employee volunteers play an integral role in meeting a growing challenge for local organizations…finding daytime volunteers."

According to a study conducted by the Urban Institute, the most common recruiting problem across charities and congregations is recruiting volunteers who are available during the workday. "Businesses who offer release time and/or flexible scheduling options for employees to volunteer during the day can be instrumental in filling a growing need of local nonprofit organizations," Goodwin added.

KPMG LLP, the audit, tax and advisory firm, sponsored the publication and enabled the Foundation to send complimentary copies to its nearly 400 Volunteer Centers and Corporate Volunteer Councils nationwide.

"KPMG actively supports and contributes to a myriad of local, regional, and national nonprofit organizations. As a core value of the firm, our people take great pride in community involvement. Through this publication, we encourage other businesses to benefit from the value that employee volunteer programs offer," says John-Anthony Meza, manager of Involve, KPMG's volunteer program.

To order a copy of Developing Excellence in Workplace Volunteer Programs, visit www.PointsofLight.org/catalog or call 1-800-272-8306.