Congress must protect AmeriCorps to help communities in need.
Communities across our country desperately need help. Some are recovering from natural disasters and require food, water and shelter. Many confront economic misfortune, forcing families to rely on services like food banks they never imagined they would need. In others, school attendance rates have dropped, and afterschool programs are struggling. Military veterans and their families, who may need assistance with benefits, mental health services or academic support, often have nowhere to turn.
Each day, any one of these situations is happening in American communities, and
step up to answer the call.
As a public-private partnership and catalyst for local engagement, AmeriCorps has bridged divides and repaired communities for 30 years. AmeriCorps deploys thousands of members and volunteers to community-run organizations from coast to coast, helping people improve education, strengthen health services, protect the environment, support military families and grow local economies. Last year, more than
, including many who worked with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.
And yet the U.S. House of Representatives wants to cut AmeriCorps’ funding in half, to the lowest levels in the past three decades. If implemented, these cuts would eliminate more than 61,000 AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors positions. The Senate’s bill, though better, would still result in significant cuts to AmeriCorps.
We cannot afford for this to happen. From rural outposts to urban centers, AmeriCorps shows up to meet critical needs. Funding AmeriCorps is also an incredibly efficient use of taxpayer dollars, yielding more than
.
Americans, especially young people, need more opportunities to both contribute their energy and skills and strengthen the social fabric of our nation. AmeriCorps provides those opportunities, and now more than ever, we must invest in it. The challenges our nation faces are immense, and we need more people to step up and say, “Yes, I can help.”
When my father, President George H.W. Bush, launched Points of Light and signed the 1990 National Service Act, he paved the way for service to be recognized and empowered as a core value of American life. His work set the stage for the creation of AmeriCorps. My brother George carried on this national service legacy during his presidency, bolstering AmeriCorps’ vital work. They knew that the government could not face our nation’s challenges alone. It would take nonprofits, businesses and citizens all working together, something AmeriCorps makes possible every day.
In the past 30 years, investments in national service have proven beneficial, especially in times of crisis. Those who serve have supported more than 245,000 veterans and military families. They are also in 9,500 schools nationwide, providing educational support and increasing high school graduation rates.
Wherever there is a need, AmeriCorps is there, and cutting funding would leave gaping holes in critical services that communities and families sorely need.
This summer, David Eisner and John Gomperts, former heads of AmeriCorps under my brother and President Barack Obama, respectively, published a paper titled “
.” They thoughtfully explored how national service can advance bridge-building and how AmeriCorps members learn “civic CPR” — the basic mindset and skills to connect across differences, listen and collaborate. These crucial skills are at the heart of what both my father and brother paved the way for. People serving together increases understanding and communication to respect differences and helps foster trust and civility.
We implore Congress and the White House to invest in national service and reject shortsighted funding cuts to AmeriCorps. It not only supports communities across the country but also builds better citizens. Now is the time to lean into the values we hold dear and enable Americans to build bridges toward a stronger future.
stands as a shining example of how art can serve as a powerful tool for engagement and social impact. Pastel Souls exemplifies how art can be a love language, reaching out to touch hearts across communities.
In a world often clouded by challenges and hardships, Zoya’s approach shines a light on the unique power of creativity and empathy. Her journey exemplifies how art can transcend traditional boundaries of engagement, turning every brushstroke into hope and every color into change. As we delve into the heart of this transformative movement, it becomes evident that Zoya’s work is not just about getting civically engaged; it’s about redefining the essence of giving through the universal language of art.
Are you a nonprofit leader who is innovating in the social impact space and wants to become an Impact Icon? Answer our QUESTIONNAIRE, and you could be featured here on our blog!
A Canvas of Compassion: Pastel Souls at a Glance
Founded by the visionary Zoya Eshwar, Pastel Souls is a youth-driven outreach program that harnesses the power of art to spread joy, creativity and support. Targeting diverse groups like seniors in memory care, veterans, children with special needs and survivors of abuse and homelessness, this organization has become a beacon of hope and inclusivity.
Pastel Souls began as a small group of five children and has blossomed into a robust family of more than 100 volunteers, partnering with 25 charity groups. “Our exponential growth is a testament to our mission,” Zoya shares with pride. “From art donations to organizing fundraising activities, our journey has been a vibrant tapestry of making a difference.”
Image courtesy Zoya Eshwar
The Heartbeat: Art Workshops
At the core of Pastel Souls are the art workshops, described by Zoya as “therapeutic sanctuaries.” These sessions offer more than just art; they are avenues for emotional healing, self-expression and growth. “These workshops hold a significant place in my heart,” Zoya reflects, her achievements, including the President’s Volunteer Service Award and setting two world records, mirroring the organization’s commitment.
“As of now, we have successfully organized 49 community art projects,” Zoya says, “and the true heroes behind this remarkable journey are the young individuals who share our passion for a more vibrant and compassionate world.”
Current Initiatives: The Unity Project
“The ‘Unity Project’ is our latest initiative, bringing together our volunteers to create art that’s donated to those in need,” Zoya explains. This project not only showcases the unity and creativity of volunteers but also significantly impacts the community, embodying the belief in the transformative power of art.
“The ‘Unity Project’ embodies our belief in the transformative power of art and the significance of unity in making a meaningful difference,” Zoya shares. “It’s a testament to the strength of our volunteers’ dedication and their commitment to spreading colors and joy in the lives of those who need it most.”
Impact by the Numbers
Over five years, Pastel Souls has made a measurable impact:
Artwork Donations: More than1,500 pieces donated.
Fundraising: Raised more than $10,000 for local nonprofits.
Art Supply Drives: Distributed 400+ art kits.
Book Drives: Collected 2,000+ books.
Volunteer Growth: From 5 to 100+ dedicated individuals.
Partnerships: Collaborated with 25 different groups.
Community Art Projects: Successfully organized 49 projects.
Recognizing Volunteers: Awards and Social Media Spotlights
Volunteers with Pastel Souls are celebrated with certificates, awards and social media recognition, underlining their invaluable contributions. “These volunteers wholeheartedly contribute their time, resources and in-kind donations to advance our cause,” Zoya says. “Together, we create a world where compassion and creativity go hand in hand.”
Image courtesy Zoya Eshwar
A Tapestry of Love and Art
For those seeking to get involved in their communities through volunteering, Zoya advises, “Start with your passion and find a cause that resonates with you. There’s no age limit for making a positive impact.” She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, saying, “Engaging with local community organizations or volunteering groups can amplify your impact and provide you with valuable resources and support. Working together with others who are passionate about the same cause can make a significant difference.”
“Lastly, don’t be discouraged by the scale of the task,” Zoya shares. “Civic engagement often involves small steps that, when taken collectively, lead to meaningful change. Every effort, no matter how modest, contributes to the betterment of your community. Stay persistent and focused on your goals, and remember that even a single act of kindness or civic participation can have a ripple effect in creating a more compassionate and vibrant community.”
Pastel Souls reminds us that love can be expressed in myriad ways, with art being a profound medium. Zoya Eshwar’s journey and the accomplishments of Pastel Souls not only set trends in volunteerism and social impact but also paint a picture of a world where compassion and creativity walk hand in hand.
Ask a CSR Friend: Working With ERG Leaders
Looking for CSR advice?
Hear from our experts right here in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know it takes a village to create vibrant workplaces where employees are empowered to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.
Have questions about employee community engagement? Submit your question and it may be featured in a future blog post.
Dear CSR Friend,
My company’s employee volunteer program has been around for ages but we recently launched employee resource groups to foster inclusivity, shape the employee experience, develop leaders, and influence business practices. I am super grateful that they now exist (truthfully, they are long overdue), and I want to ensure that my corporate social impact teammates and I begin collaborating effectively with our colleagues who lead the ERG strategy and its implementation since some of our community goals and engagement activities overlap. Do you have any tips for starting off on the right foot?
EVP & ERG Enthusiast in Eugene
Dear EVP & ERG Enthusiast,
I love to hear that your employer has realized the value that comes from formalizing ERGs as part of its DEIB strategy. You’re not the first to pose this question since it can seem like the work of ERGs and employee community engagement is at odds in certain ways – namely how they approach community partnerships, establish goals and guidelines, and why and when they mobilize their members. I’ve jotted down a top ten list of ideas to help you and your DEIB counterparts set both programs up for success.
Create clear communication channels: First, I think the main hurdle to cross is ensuring open and regular communication between the leaders of these two work streams. Determine whether that’s through scheduled recurring meetings, joint working group sessions, or hosting virtual mixers with the goal of getting to know one another both professionally and personally. Heck, make plans to do all of the above AND share ideas and concerns as they surface through a dedicated Slack or Teams channel.
Understand each other’s roles and missions: Both ERG leaders and their corporate social impact colleagues should have a clear understanding of each other’s roles, responsibilities, and missions to avoid duplicating efforts and discover synergies. Get to know how the roles and responsibilities differ and capture it in writing. Even though you are both reaching out to the same internal audience, you’ve each got your own expertise and can use it to better each other’s programming.
Define common goals: Even though your charter may differ, you are working toward some similar goals, and a few might even feel identical. Identify those common goals—the ones that get everyone involved fired up—and then unite to drive positive change. This alignment can help both parties work together toward a common purpose.
Develop a joint strategy or two: Work together to create a comprehensive DEIB and social impact strategy that leverages the strengths and expertise of both parties, which can help set clearer priorities and direction. This step doesn’t have to be all encompassing—just the parts where the outcomes are aligned. For example, if you both have a goal to develop an inclusive talent pipeline, work together to identify potential nonprofit partners that provide individuals from underrepresented groups with pathways and skill development.
Share resources: Pooling appropriate resources when it makes sense, whether financial, personnel or expertise, can lead to more effective initiatives and can help maximize impact. Bring your skills and resources to the table. Share the workload, and you’ll cook up something amazing together.
Align measurement and reporting: Agree on common key performance indicators (KPIs) and data collection methods to track progress, especially if you have similar goals and outcomes (e.g., employee engagement or sentiment). Consistent measurement and reporting can demonstrate the impact of your collaborative efforts rather than highlighting tensions.
Employee engagement: Team up on employee engagement initiatives that promote both DEIB and social impact and are mutually beneficial. This can include volunteer opportunities, diversity and inclusion training and awareness campaigns. For example, a few years ago, AT&T designed a 21-day Racial Equity Learning Challenge that included many different DEIB and social impact-related activities that supported the education and development of employees enterprise-wide.
Advocate for senior leader support: Show that you’re a dynamic duo and go to bat for similar causes that can help you both achieve your goals. When you show up to jointly advocate for buy-in from senior leadership for activities you both want to pursue, it demonstrates alignment.
Celebrate successes collectively: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements and milestones as a team. This simple act can help foster a positive and collaborative work environment. When you reach your shared goals, throw a virtual victory party! Celebrate your wins as you champion change together.
Evaluate and adapt: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your collaboration and be open to adjusting as needed. Continuous improvement is key to achieving long-term success and working well together. You may not get it right the first time or every time but put in the effort so that you can lean on one another when needed.
Collaboration between a company’s ERG leaders and social impact counterparts can be a powerful force in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as well as advancing corporate social responsibility. By working together to achieve common goals and by leveraging respective strengths from the outset, you will both develop programs that employees will be proud to be a part of.
Until Next Month,
Your
, a time to celebrate and participate in the power of volunteering. As we gear up for this inspiring month, here are 10 essential ways you can prepare to make the most of it:
1. Educate Yourself on the Importance of Volunteering
Understanding the impact of volunteering on communities and individuals is crucial. Read up on the stories of change and transformation brought about by volunteers around the world. This knowledge can fuel your motivation and commitment.
that is a treasure trove of information. This toolkit provides guidance on how to spread the word about Global Volunteer Month, share your stories and inspire others to join the cause. It’s a must-have resource for both new and seasoned volunteers.
3. Set Personal Volunteering Goals
What do you wish to achieve during Global Volunteer Month? It could be a certain number of volunteering hours, learning a new skill or helping a specific number of people. Setting clear, achievable goals can provide a sense of direction and accomplishment.
4. Search for In-Person and Virtual Volunteer Opportunities
is your go-to place to find both in-person and virtual volunteering opportunities. With a wide array of options, you can choose what resonates most with your interests and skills. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a long-term project, there’s something for everyone.
“Global Volunteer Month celebrates people who are creating change and making a lasting impact in communities around the world. Each of us can step into our power by stepping up to solve a problem we see by volunteering, using our voice, listening to others and working together. With community-serving organizations seeing a 7% drop in volunteers since the pandemic, we’re urging everyone to find a cause you care about and learn how you can get involved. Together, we can support each other and make our communities stronger.” — Chief Operating Officer Diane Quest
5. Connect with Other Volunteers
Join online forums, social media groups or local community gatherings of volunteers. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide support, inspiration and even valuable networking opportunities.
6. Prepare Your Volunteering Kit
Depending on your chosen volunteering activity, prepare a kit. This could include items like comfortable clothing, snacks for the event, necessary tools or even educational materials if you’re teaching or mentoring.
7. Spread the Word
Use your personal and professional networks to spread the word about Global Volunteer Month. Encourage friends, family and colleagues to participate. The more people involved, the bigger the impact.
8. Reflect on Past Volunteering Experiences
If you’ve volunteered before, take some time to reflect on those experiences. What did you learn? What would you like to do differently this time? These reflections can guide your approach to the upcoming opportunities.
9. Plan for Flexibility
Sometimes, volunteering plans can change – projects evolve, or personal commitments shift. Go into Global Volunteer Month with a flexible mindset, ready to adapt and embrace whatever comes your way.
10. Celebrate Your Impact
Finally, remember to celebrate the impact of your volunteer work. Recognizing the difference you make can be incredibly rewarding and can spur ongoing commitment to volunteering.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to make a meaningful contribution during Global Volunteer Month. Let’s join hands and hearts to make a difference in our communities and beyond!
efforts? Here are some exciting ways to include your dog in your next volunteering effort.
1. BRING YOUR DOG ALONG ON A CHARITY RUN
Many charity runs welcome (well-trained) dogs, providing a perfect opportunity for both of you to get some exercise and support a good cause. Look for dog-friendly charity events that support animal welfare.
2. ENGAGE YOUR DOG VOLUNTEER AS A THERAPY ANIMAL
Dogs can offer immense emotional support in various settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, schools and special needs facilities. Explore local or national organizations that train therapy dogs to understand how you can get involved.
3. FOSTER A DOG FOR SOCIAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Many shelter dogs are adopted into families with other pets, but they may lack social skills. By fostering a dog, your own pet can help these shelter dogs learn essential social cues. Inquire at your local shelter about how you can provide a temporary home.
4. DONATE CANINE BLOOD TO HELP SAVE ANOTHER DOG’S LIFE
Just like humans, pets undergoing surgery may need blood transfusions. Veterinarians need fully stocked blood banks, too! When pets require surgery, they need donated blood. Contact your vet for more information on how to participate.
5. TRAIN YOUR DOG FOR SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSIONS
If you’re a first responder who owns a dog, consider training your pet in search and rescue. This specialized training, which can take up to two years, creates invaluable teams for disaster response. The American Rescue Dog Association offers resources for those interested in this path.
6. ORGANIZE OR PARTICIPATE IN A DOG WALKING CLUB FOR SENIORS
Start a community dog walking club specifically aimed at seniors. Walking dogs can be a great way for older adults to stay active and socialize. Your dog can provide companionship and joy to seniors who may not have pets of their own. Coordinate with local senior centers to establish regular walking schedules.
7. ENGAGE IN ENVIRONMENTAL CLEAN-UPS WITH YOUR DOG
Participate in local environmental clean-up efforts with your dog. Many community groups organize park, beach or neighborhood clean-ups, and having your dog along can make the experience more enjoyable. This activity not only helps the environment but also gives your dog a chance to explore new areas and enjoy the outdoors. Always ensure to keep the environment safe for your pet by following local regulations and cleaning up responsibly.
By integrating these activities into your volunteering, you not only contribute positively to the community but also strengthen the bond with your furry friend. So, why not start exploring these opportunities today?
Do you know someone who does extraordinary volunteer work with their dog, or who volunteers with service animals? Nominate them for a
, and they may be featured on our blog during National Service Dog Month.
18 Volunteer Opportunities You Can Join to be a Part of 2024 MLK Day of Service
As the 95th birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. approaches on January 15, 2024, people across the United States prepare to honor the birth of one of its most influential civil rights leaders. MLK Day of Service transcends remembrance, having evolved into a national day of service that actively honors Dr. King’s memory. This day encourages us to reflect on the impact of Dr. King’s work and take action to advance his vision for a better society. It’s the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.
MLK Day of Service is a call to action, in the spirit of Dr. King, who once said, “Everybody can be great because anyone can serve.” These words are an invitation to contribute to our communities, addressing issues that we are passionate about and that resonate with the values Dr. King championed.
As champions of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Points of Light Global Network Affiliates are offering a variety of volunteer activities across the country, making it easier for everyone to find a way to make a difference in their community. And if you don’t see an event in your community listed below, take a look at
is collaborating with its dedicated partner, TEKsystems, to motivate its nationwide workforce to volunteer on MLK Day, especially in Baltimore. Their 2024 ambition is for all employees to participate in the “Day On Not Off,” either through sponsored events or individual volunteering, demonstrating a commitment to impact on MLK Day and beyond.
will honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with a tribute that has been running since 2014. After a pandemic hiatus, CVNL reignited the tradition in 2023. The event will feature opportunities for community service projects focusing on building a “Beloved Community” reflective of Dr. King’s ideals of inclusion, equity, justice and compassion.
will be offering a one-day Civic Leadership Training Series, crafted to empower individuals for year-round impactful community engagement. This dynamic program, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., equips attendees with essential skills for sustainable civic leadership in a collaborative, immersive learning experience.
will engage volunteers in metro Atlanta from Jan. 11-15, 2024, supporting more than 50 nonprofits focusing on food security, education and the environment, in line with Dr. King’s vision. This includes the 10th annual MLK Sunday Supper on Jan. 14, a gathering for Atlanta’s leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue about “Challenging the Status Quo.”
organizes an annual day of service in tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., mobilizing volunteers, corporate partners and organizations across Central California. This year, MLK Serve Projects will be active in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kings, Merced, Mariposa and Stanislaus Counties, addressing critical community needs.
and Shell Oil are teaming up to revitalize a public school campus in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The organization is seeking volunteers for various projects, including enhancing playgrounds, making over a library, constructing outdoor cafeteria seating, painting locker rooms and refurbishing basketball courts. The focus is on creating inclusive, stimulating spaces for individual and group play, incorporating STEM and music activities. Another event hosted by HandsOn New Orleans and Shell Oil will transform a budding public park via various outdoor projects, replicating the successful efforts of a local man who galvanized the community to restore his childhood recreation center after Hurricane Katrina.
has collaborated with Wake Forest University and others since 2010 to organize the Read-In event, promoting Dr. King’s ideals through literacy and service. The event pairs children ages 4 through 10 with college students for reading and enrichment activities, giving each child a civil-rights themed book. Annually engaging about 150 volunteers and 100 children, the event will take place this year at Winston-Salem State University.
will mobilize 1,500 volunteers across ten New Jersey counties for a variety of projects, including school transformations, park revitalization, a social justice walk, workshops and care package assembly. These impactful activities will take place both on the day of and the day before the holiday, honoring Dr. King’s legacy through community service.
will commemorate Dr. King’s influential 1964 speech at the Coliseum with the MLK 2024 Volunteer Festival at the same venue. This event, aimed at building a beloved community, will feature thousands of volunteers engaging in diverse activities like hands-on service, a Minecraft March on Washington and a marketplace showcasing local BIPOC-owned businesses.
, in partnership with AHRC, is organizing a diverse group of volunteers for food drives and emergency food aid delivery. The event includes a march from the First Baptist Church in Glen Cove to the Glen Cove Middle School, where volunteers, including AHRC Nassau members, will assemble food bags for the North Shore Soup Kitchen. The day will also feature a celebratory program with artistic expressions themed on diversity and inclusivity.
25th annual Day of Service will invite community members to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., through meaningful service. Partnering with the Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC) and the Orange County Food Bank, this event supports initiatives that have been improving lives and communities and fighting poverty in O.C. for more than 56 years.
will again host its MLK Day of Service Food Packing Event. Launched in 2018 to address local hunger issues, this event engages volunteers in an assembly-line to pack 200,000 nutritious meals. These meals are then distributed by volunteers to various local food pantries, including churches and schools, ensuring widespread community impact.
will offer an MLK Day of Service event on the 20214 MLK Day of Service. This day will focus on neighborhood cleanups to enhance the environment and community unity, along with hosting voter registration drives at each site to encourage civic engagement and honor Dr. King’s vision of equality and active community participation.
7th MLK Day of Service will feature diverse civic engagement projects like “Listen and Learn” sessions on affordable housing, training for “SNAP Ambassadors”, donation scavenger hunts, park cleanups, STEM kit packing and more. The event will also include the presentation of the “Beloved Community Award” to a leader exemplifying Dr. King’s vision.
4th annual MLK Unity Celebration will feature the theme “Live, Love & Serve – Burlington County” from January 12-15. The event features a local video to inspire participation in MLK Day events and activities, available for individual viewing and at related events. Additionally, attendees can join the 18th annual MLK Challenge on MLK Day, involving card making and collections for three different causes.
will host its annual MLK Day of Service, a significant community event for 15 years, celebrating Dr. King’s legacy through service. This day includes diverse activities like service projects for local nonprofits, a nonprofit fair, food drive, community art, performances and a children’s area with literacy support through Imagination Library. Join the “Kindness for King” initiative and the MLK Drive Clean-Up to make a meaningful impact.
will host its MLK Jr. Weekend of Service, starting with a community conversation on “Racial Equity: Practices and Competencies to Build Stamina and Strength” on January 10, led by award-winning moderator Natasha A. Harrison. This panel features community leaders discussing the implementation of racial equity practices. On January 15, “Give Together,” a family-friendly volunteer event for children (ages 5-12), will offer service projects across various areas, including food insecurity and elder care, guided by teen leaders. This event includes reflection on Dr. King’s legacy and the opportunity for youth to earn Passport stamps through participation.
will host its MLK Day 2024 Civic Circle Discussion, where they explore nine ways to lead a purposeful civic life. Attendees will have the chance to reflect on community involvement, vision and actions to make that vision a reality.
Points of Light is proud of the work our affiliates are championing for Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service this year. Do you want to participate in this day of service through volunteer opportunities near you? Visit
to search our database of hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities. Together, we can keep Dr. King’s dream alive and thriving in communities across the nation.
Ask a CSR Friend: Distributing Employee Volunteer T-shirts
Looking for CSR advice?
Hear from our experts right here in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know it takes a village to create vibrant workplaces where employees are empowered to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.
Have questions about employee community engagement? Submit your question and it may be featured in a future blog post.
Dear CSR Friend,
I have managed my company’s employee volunteer program for years and, at the beginning of each year, we struggle to figure out the best method for distributing volunteer t-shirts before projects take place. Now that many of my colleagues are working remotely a few days a week, it’s posing an even more difficult logistical challenge. What are our best options?
Signed,
T-shirt Turmoil in Tupelo
Dear T-shirt Turmoil,
Having been nicknamed “T-Shirt Lady” in my previous social impact role, I feel your question and your quest deeply! For many companies, volunteer t-shirts serve as more than just promotional apparel; they embody a culture of community engagement and an outward display of employee pride. They also foster a sense of belonging and purpose among employees. But how and when do you get them into your eager employee volunteers’ hands?
Here’s a quick rundown of options you might try this year:
Distribute During Onboarding for All New Hires: One of the best times to introduce employees to your company’s social impact initiatives is during their onboarding process. Providing them with a volunteer t-shirt from day one sets the tone for their journey within the company and demonstrates the company’s commitment to making a positive difference where they operate.
Use an Annual Milestone to Send to All Employees: To keep the spirit of social impact alive, consider making it a tradition to send a volunteer t-shirt to all employees once a year, perhaps on the anniversary of the company’s founding or the month in which the employee volunteer program launched.
Add to the Company’s Branded Merch Website: Make it easy for employees to get their hands on volunteer t-shirts 24/7 by adding them to the company’s branded merchandise website. Maybe they’ll even buy one to wear to the gym!
Encourage Volunteers to Wear Vintage T-Shirts: Instead of creating new designs each year, invite employees to wear a branded company shirt or past volunteer t-shirt. This not only reduces waste but also creates a sense of nostalgia and pride. Those paint stains and rips will now be seen as badges of honor!
Pick a Convenient Distribution Day: When distributing t-shirts, choose a day when most employees will be in the office, especially in a hybrid work environment. Distributing them in common areas like the lobby or cafeteria can be a great way to build excitement for your upcoming projects. Collaborate with your HR team in case there are other building-wide activities happening (or that COULD happen) on that day. Make sure distribution happens several days in advance of a volunteer project and bring a handful in different sizes to the project just in case a few employees forget or don’t have a chance to claim while in the office.
Three Extra Tips on T-Shirts:
Fostering a sense of belonging with volunteer t-shirts includes ensuring there is a range of sizes available for all employees. If they can’t obtain a shirt in a size they feel comfortable in, an employee is sure to feel excluded, which might dissuade them from participating and certainly diminishes the company pride and community vibes branded t-shirts can establish.
When selecting a vendor to work with for design, production and shipping of your volunteer t-shirts no matter when you distribute, consider collaborating with organizations that align with your company’s values. Look for partners that serve a greater purpose, such as veteran-owned, female-owned, or minority-owned businesses like Social Imprints. Some even offer options to offset shipping and production emissions.
The production and shipping of t-shirts each year can seem wasteful not just to you but also to eco-smart employees. Choose materials that are not only comfortable to wear but also environmentally responsible. Provide instructions for employees on how to repurpose their shirts when they’re no longer wearable, such as donating them to a local charity or turning them into reusable bags or dog toys.
Incorporating volunteer t-shirts into your employer’s social impact strategy (and budget) can be a powerful way to promote a sense of unity and purpose among your employees. These shirts become more than just clothing; they become symbols of your company’s commitment to the community. And they serve as the perfect attire for capturing photos that can be used for internal and external communications, showcasing the positive impact employees are making, both offline and online.
Until Next Month,
Your CSR Friend
as a day off, we see it as a “day on.” It’s an opportunity to start your year in the spirit of volunteerism and service, continuing the legacy of Dr. King, who spent his life working to better the lives of others.
Just as Martin Luther King Jr. believed in service, so did Points of Light founder President George H. W. Bush. Once saying, “Any definition of a successful life must include serving others,” President Bush recognized the importance of this day when he signed the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Commission Extension Act in 1989. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating MLK Day as a national day of service.
Since then, each year on MLK Day, Points of Light calls together its community of changemakers to reflect on gains won during the Civil Rights Movement and to address contemporary issues facing our nation through acts of volunteer service.
ways you can get involved on Jan. 15, 2024 For a day on, not a day off
” call people to engage in dialogue about issues affecting their communities. Conversations, a form of civic engagement, about pressing topics are important because they are often the starting point for change.
is a special opportunity to bond, create memories and help others. Include kids in your MLK Day service plans. Volunteer together and use this time to lead by example around what MLK’s legacy means for the United States today.
.
As the first national day of service in 2024, let MLK Day be your start to a year-long commitment to service. Leading a life of volunteerism has been shown to have benefits not only to the community,
to jumpstart a year of volunteerism and service to make our communities, and the world, a better place for all.
9 Ways to Live Out MLK’s Legacy in Your Own Life
MLK Day of Service is a national day of service that focuses on human rights, racial equity and civic engagement. The third Monday in January is dedicated to the life and legacy of
is a framework to help you realize all the ways you can lead, lend support and take action. Often, people think that civic engagement needs to look one specific way – when the truth is that there are multiple ways to get involved, no matter where you are or how much time you have.
This year, mark your calendar for Jan. 15 and make a plan to get involved.
Ways to Live out MLK’s Legacy
Volunteer
Make MLK Day “a Day On, not a Day Off” by finding a volunteer opportunity.
is always needed, but on dedicated days like MLK Day, there are typically additional opportunities available. Community centers, schools, places of worship, food pantries and shelters near you may be hosting extra projects. You can search
. When we hear from others about their perspectives and the life experiences that have shaped their identities, we can better honor who they are and where they come from. Plus, we have the opportunity to expand our own perspectives. You can also learn how to support and advocate for people of color through Points of Light’s
, coining the phrase “Give Us the Ballot” in his 1957 speech. The United States national elections will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, but that doesn’t mean it’s too soon to get involved. Voting is a crucial part of driving change at the systemic level. Start by
to vote, then educate yourself on the issues and the people on this year’s ballot. You may also dedicate time to protecting democracy by advocating for voting rights for all Americans. Then, don’t forget to mark your calendar to ensure you’re ready to vote in November.
is one way to support communities – like BIPOC business owners – or causes you care about. By doing your homework, you can find out which brands that you might buy from regularly are supporting communities of color and advocating for human rights. This may be reflected in their donations, certain projects or campaigns they lead, how they lift up their BIPOC employees and more. Research before you buy, so you can ensure your hard-earned money is going toward the causes you care about.
Work
You might find ways to champion human and civil rights
, even if your job isn’t directly related to these missions. For example, you could organize a group of coworkers who are interested in volunteering on MLK Days. Or you might do a project featuring the voices of
in the community and screen it after work or on a lunch break to help educate and start a conversation within your workplace. If you don’t receive MLK Day off from work, you can also advocate with your employer to make this a day of service for employees.
Voice
Dr. King was a powerful voice in the Black community and used his influence to organize rallies and protests, petition for change and speak with public officials when he could. You can
in your own spheres of influence. This can start around the dinner table, presenting a topic you’re passionate about and leaving space for respectful debate and sharing perspectives. You might find a specific issue you want to champion and create an online petition for it. Or maybe you join an organized rally to make your voice heard. There are plenty of ways to use your words to communicate what you care about and pave the way for change.
Donate
If you want to use your resources to advocate for human and civil rights, you can also
to a cause or organization. By donating financially, you can let an organization allocate funds where they’re most needed. But even donating goods like
can greatly impact an individual or group of people who may not have access to these items. Just check with the organization you’re donating to first, to ensure that you’re contributing items they need and can use.
Service
If you want to follow Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s footsteps in dedicating your life to championing human and civil rights, you might consider making a vocation out of it. Through a
. Social entrepreneurs find innovative solutions to the world’s toughest issues, like inequality and racism. These individuals identify a need that hasn’t yet been met by the existing traditional structures, which takes a lot of time, creativity and grit but can also be a supremely impactful career option.
3 Ways You Can Make a Difference on MLK Day of Service
is a defining moment each year when Americans across the country step up to make communities more equitable and take action to create the “Beloved Community” of Dr. King’s dream. While Dr. King believed the Beloved Community was possible, he acknowledged and fought for systemic change. His example is our call to action. This National Day of Service encourages companies, nonprofits and individuals to make a difference on MLK day.
During the last quarter-century, the MLK Day of Service has grown, and its impact increased as more Americans embraced the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving communities. Here’s how to make a difference on MLK day, taking place on January 15, 2024, regardless of whether you’re working solo, as part of a corporate team or with a nonprofit organization.
Things Companies Can Do for MLK Day
Companies have a unique opportunity to participate in MLK Day, both by encouraging employee engagement and addressing racism and bias in the workplace. First, be sure to put together an internal communications plan that encourages employees to get involved and notifies them leading up to the day. You may also opt to organize a corporate volunteer project for your team or give paid volunteer time off for this day. If you need help with your employee engagement efforts, Points of Light’s
can be a great resource.
If you haven’t hosted training or education on racism, bias and inequalities in the workplace, make an effort to implement this, starting with MLK Day. Acknowledge that discrimination still exists and open the floor for your employees to discuss
featuring Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center, that also offers additional resources for deeper learning.
Other ways you can help employees engage in this work might be centered around an educational opportunity, like a “Lunch and Learn,” to explore microaggressions, biases in communication and more. It could be a meeting that allows for challenging conversations about identity. Or it could be an all-staff email that recognizes the existence of discrimination and reiterates an open-door policy to address these issues with management.
can utilize MLK Day to spark engagement among employees and volunteers alike in a variety of ways. Your nonprofit might run a donation drive, host an event at a food bank or shelter, or run a campaign for donors to give to a specific cause related to dismantling racism and discrimination.
If your organization hasn’t yet, consider adding your volunteer opportunities to
, the world’s largest digital volunteer network. This collection of volunteer opportunities from sites across the web provides the most comprehensive database of volunteer opportunities in the world. Additionally, you can browse the
to get started. It’s a place that connects individuals to hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities — in person and virtual — all just waiting for the right volunteer to step up.
You can also check out Points of Light’s collection of
to find a project you can complete in your spare time. And don’t forget that even the smallest act of service, like caring for a sick loved one or picking up your elderly neighbor’s mail, counts as civic engagement and can create a ripple of positive impact in your own backyard and beyond.
