on June 11–14 at the Marriot Marquis Houston. Thanks to the generous support of UPS, The Samuels Foundation and CSAA and the Daily Point of Light Award Scholarship, a contingent of 18 honorees came together, joining the nearly 1,200 attendees for a week of learning inspiration and connection.
Hailing from nine U.S. states, Pakistan and the U.K., and spanning all ages from first year college student to retirees, these honorees spent time getting to know each other, being inspired and furthering their commitment to service. During a reception one evening, the energy in the room was palpable. They exchanged stories of their journeys and discussed innovative solutions to the challenges faced by their communities.
Growing Their Impact
Throughout the week, honorees gained invaluable insights into creating lasting social impact. As leaders of small nonprofit organizations in their communities, their conference attendance was made possible with the support of the UPS, The Samuels Foundation and CSAA Daily Point of Light Conference Scholarship. One honoree, who had left a successful career to dedicate herself fulltime to her organization’s mission, reflected, “without the support of the scholarship, I would not have been able to take advantage of this opportunity to grow my knowledge and impact.”
Save the Date for the 2025 Points of Light Conference in New Orleans, June 3–6. Sign up to receive updates.
A Legacy of Leading Change
At the Closing Plenary session, all attendees heard from a panel of three honorees: Victoria Villareal (Daily Point of Light honoree #7,650) from Houston, Nikki Scott (U.K. Points of Light honoree #942) and Hamza Farrukh (Commonwealth Point of Light #129) representing the
. The three dove into their work and personal journeys of service, and left audience members with key take aways about leading social impact. They were joined by Points of Light board member Gregg Petersmeyer, who was the founding Director of the White House Office of National Service and supported President George H.W. Bush in the development of the Daily Point of Light award from the White House in 1989.
Points of Light was thrilled to welcome four new honorees from the Houston area to the Daily Point of Light honoree community. We were proud to work with our co-host, Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston and Volunteer Houston, to celebrate incredible volunteers in the community. Four honorees we celebrated this week were:
Ann Kaesermann (#7,830) who serves as board treasurer of Interfaith Ministries;
Dee Dee Dochen (#7,831) who volunteers with ReelAbilities and is a long-time advocate for differently abled individuals;
Melissa Williams Murphy (#7,832) founder of iWrite, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering children to publish their own short stories;
Dana Farrar (#7,834), a volunteer with Theatre Under the Stars, a differently-abled theatre company.
Building Personal Connections
One of the joys of the Points of Light Conference is the opportunity to meet and grow relationships with other individuals passionate about change. In between diving into educational opportunities such as a workshop on building effective organization partnerships or a talk on leveraging AI for good, Daily Point of Light honorees made time to get to know each other – and have a little fun.
Honorees left with new knowledge, tools and relationships. In the words of one honoree, “I had so much fun and learned a lot from every single one [of my fellow honorees]. Keep up the good work!”
As we reflect on the Points of Light conference, we are reminded of the power of individuals to ignite change and the magic that happens when they come together.
Top Corporate Social Impact Insights from the 2024 Points of Light Conference
“There can be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others.”
— President George H. W. Bush
brought together 1,200 nonprofit, business and civic leaders who believe in the power of service to create positive community change. Throughout their time in Houston, attendees gained new knowledge, forged impactful connections, and were filled with inspiration to continue their important work to lead change. They also found moments to celebrate as we acknowledged the
honorees, and attested to their own contributions to building a society characterized by compassion, volunteerism and civic engagement.
While corporate social impact leaders often have opportunities to meet and learn from one another, the Points of Light conference provides unique value by offering conversations that highlight cross-sector challenges, partnerships and solutions. These discussions brought forth valuable insights that help remind us of where we’ve been and where we’re headed.
Corporate Social Impact Insights
The reception for business leaders during the 2024 Points of Light Conference.
People: Building Belonging and Strengthening Relationships
At the heart of people-powered change are the volunteers themselves. While the collective efforts of individuals can spark transformation in the lives of others, it also brings significant value to volunteers. As Points of Light CEO Jennifer Sirangelo shared in the opening plenary, “there is an urgent need for connections, compassion, and community.” The world is at a pivotal moment; many feel isolated and lonely, othering has become commonplace, and differences seem too difficult to overcome. In the workplace, we are faced with record levels of disengagement and stress. Employees are searching for purpose, respect and inclusion. Volunteerism, by developing empathy and encouraging proximity, plays a crucial role in bringing people together to work toward common goals, fostering a sense of belonging, and building a resilient and supportive community where individuals feel valued and connected.
Not only do we need people to get involved in making positive change happen, but the true success of volunteer efforts also relies on the strength of relationships. Collaboration between community organizations and businesses creates a robust support network that amplifies impact and drives innovation. Strategic partnerships where significance is placed on mutual trust and transparency ensure that resources are effectively used and that outcomes are sustainable and far-reaching.
A panel discussion during the business leaders luncheon.
Power: Uncovering Agency and Centering Community
Corporate social impact leaders play a crucial role in helping colleagues realize their potential for making change happen. By meeting employees where they are on their journey and empowering them in authentic and varied ways, leaders can inspire actions that build momentum toward achieving larger goals. Encouraging active participation in one’s community, such as volunteering and voting, is essential. However, successful participation requires the centering of community voices.
We must co-create solutions by listening to those closest to the issues. As Katie Fessler, Senior Director of Community Impact at Altria Client Services, noted in the Business Leader Luncheon, we must do this work “with community, not for and definitely not to.” Harnessing the energy and agency of volunteers is vital, but we must also be mindful of the inherent power imbalances between companies and community organizations. Recognizing that both corporate and nonprofit leaders have much to learn from each other is key. Companies should approach community partnerships with humility, allowing community leaders who are ultimately closest to the issues to guide solutions and co-dream them together. This collaborative approach ensures that efforts are genuinely beneficial and sustainable. Understanding power dynamics is also important in telling stories of service. When we center the strengths of every stakeholder in our stories and approach each other with dignity, we create connection based on shared humanity rather than a desire to save. In all aspects of community, we have as much to learn as we do to give.
A service project during the conference hosted by the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.
Progress: Measuring Impact and Valuing Transformation
Corporate social impact leaders continue to face the challenging task of proving outcomes and the return on investment. Senior leaders want to see quick results and tangible outcomes to justify the resources allocated. However, meaningful change rarely happens overnight. Achieving significant, sustainable impact requires a long-term perspective and perseverance. It also requires a framework aligned with goals and resources that allows you to course correct while translating intentions into impact and does not overburden or surprise community partners. The need to report outputs remains but encourage patience to better understand the results of this work, which may not be fully measured after one volunteer project or even in the span of one career.
It is essential that we continue thinking about our work in terms of transformation rather than transactions. We can no longer simply check hosting volunteer projects off our action plans. Instead, we must create space for listening to community, learning from their past and present, and offer volunteers time for reflection. Processing feelings and reflecting on volunteer experiences deepens the experience for volunteers and leads to the compassion and connection that the world needs now.
The landscape of social impact work has evolved significantly; today, there is more effective collaboration, a greater variety of approaches that meet employees where they are, and a deeper understanding of the value and impact of volunteerism. The Points of Light conference allowed attendees to acknowledge our collective journey while reinforcing the essential role of volunteers in creating positive community change and inspiring us to keep working together to build healthy communities. As corporate, nonprofit, and civic leaders move forward, they are better equipped to face challenges and seize opportunities, working together to build a more inclusive and engaged society.
We can’t wait to see you
next week. I am thrilled to spend another birthday week at this great event, learning from amazing session presenters, being inspired by the keynotes, connecting with corporate social responsibility and community engagement professionals, and exploring new ideas and possibilities with other volunteer engagement professionals. Here are five great ways to connect with
Check out the AL!VE & CCVA booth. There, you will meet Gretchen Jordan, AL!VE’s Association Manager, and Faiza Venzant, CCVA’s Executive Director. These two are a wealth of knowledge and can answer all your questions about being an AL!VE member or becoming a certified volunteer administrator. They may even know 90% of the volunteer engagement professionals at the conference between the two.
Look for AL!VE badge ribbons. Our amazing members will have green ones and Service Enterprise organizations will have blue ribbons. Even if you aren’t yet an AL!VE member or a Service Enterprise organization, you can get fun and sassy ribbons at our booth.
Whether it is your first time attending the Points of Light conference or you’ve attended more than ten, I hope you make the most of your time in Houston. Whether it be socializing in the Texas sunshine, being inspired by people and organizations that are taking innovative approaches to the challenges we are facing, joining us at
Strengthening the Fabric of American Society through Volunteering
By Michael D. Smith, AmeriCorps CEO
We are thrilled to welcome AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith to the mainstage of our Points of Light Conference in Houston, Texas. He will join Carol Spahn, Director of the Peace Corps, as part of the Opening Plenary to discuss the power of national service. Join us from June 11-14 to connect with social impact leaders across various sectors. Our conference empowers nonprofit, government, business, and civic leaders to make bold community impacts, offering valuable resources and inspiration. Register today!
In the complex tapestry of American history, volunteering and service have undeniably been a strong thread holding the pieces together. Our collective tapestry has been painted with tumult and trial but also with compassion and collective action. Through wars, pandemics, and economic uncertainty, Americans always turned outward with a spirit of giving that has helped us overcome every challenge.
A Nation Built on Service
From barn raisings and volunteer fire brigades to freedom riders and refugee support teams, volunteering is embedded in American history and character. Today, volunteers show up by the millions to tutor and mentor our children in schools and community centers, to feed and clothe the hungry and houseless, to care for the sick in clinics, and to rebuild after devastating natural disasters.
These volunteers run toward challenge not only because of compassion or conviction but also because they find hope, encouragement, and even personal reward in giving.
Empowering Individuals and Communities
Volunteering offers dual benefits: it enriches the lives of those who give their time and serves as a catalyst for economic and health-related advantages. Volunteers are more likely to
, including increased longevity and higher life satisfaction. This relationship highlights the profound impact of volunteering, both on individual lives and on broader societal health. In essence, volunteering doesn’t just add years to life, but also life to years, showcasing that the act of giving is, in itself, a reward.
Additionally, we’ve seen that national service not only hones leadership skills but serves as a vital pathway to careers in public service. A significant
regard their service as a defining professional experience, one that has equipped them to navigate unexpected challenges in their future careers. Relative to the general workforce, AmeriCorps alumni are far more likely to pursue careers in the nonprofit, social services, or public sectors. Only
they plan to transition into the private sector after service.
The benefits of civic engagement extend far beyond the immediate impact of individual acts of service. Communities with high levels of social capital showcase remarkable outcomes: heightened academic achievement, active and engaged citizenry, accelerated economic growth, and reduced crime rates. These communities demonstrate a remarkable resilience, better equipped to navigate economic downturns, respond to disasters, and mobilize collective action to address local challenges.
Data we’ve collected with the 2021 Census through our
in America research revealed that while we saw a decline during the pandemic, more than 60 million Americans still formally volunteered with nonprofit organizations, contributing 4.1 billion hours of service. This generosity translates to almost $123 billion in economic value! Moreover, an astounding 124 million people lent a helping hand to their neighbors in informal ways in 2021, including doing favors like house-sitting, watching each other’s children, lending tools, and running errands. house-sitting, watching each other’s children, lending tools, and running errands.
Findings reveal that civic behaviors are linked in a complex web that encompasses joining organizations, advocating for political issues, engaging with neighbors, and staying informed. These modes of civic engagement are deeply interconnected, suggesting that actions taken in one area can have far-reaching impacts. This research underscores the powerful ripple effects that can emanate from even a single act of service, highlighting its potential to strengthen the very foundations of our democracy.
From Inspiration to Action
The journey from charity to justice is also central to the volunteering experience. It’s about turning interest into action, growing from spectator to advocate, and moving beyond wanting to help out to wanting to understand root causes and systemic solutions. And no matter who you are, where you live, or what you do, there is a way for you to take action today.
If you are a corporation, consider joining Employers of National Service and partnering with nonprofit organizations and state service commissions to provide matching dollars to increase benefits for national service members.
If you are a university, consider joining Schools of National Service to attract students with real-world service experience to your degree programs.
If you are running a volunteer center, a foodbank, or a shelter, AmeriCorps can be a force multiplier to help you reach more people. Consider applying for a grant through AmeriCorps VISTA to bring on additional staff capacity or the Volunteer Generation Fund to help recruit, retain, and manage volunteers.
Nonprofit organizations of any size can consider applying for a AmeriCorps State and National grant to make an even bigger impact on your mission.
The joy and fulfillment derived from helping others is at the core of American life. As we celebrate AmeriCorps’ 30th anniversary, we’re reminded of the
. This occasion not only prompts reflection on past achievements but also inspires a forward-looking vision of continued commitment to communal well-being and social impact.
The story of American volunteerism is one of individuals and communities coming together to strengthen and transform communities. It is a powerful force that fosters unity and builds character, creating a ripple effect that can transform our society for the better.
Uniting Forces for Social Impact: Why Business Leaders Should Attend the Points of Light Conference
Are you a corporate social impact leader looking to strengthen community strategies, elevate employee volunteering and ultimately increase the impact of your work? Then join us at the
, happening at the Marriott Marquis Houston from June 11–14, 2024. This conference isn’t your typical gathering of industry professionals—it’s a convergence of social impact leaders from all sectors, offering a unique experience that goes beyond traditional networking and learning opportunities.
At the Points of Light Conference, you’ll find more than just educational workshops and leadership discussions. You’ll discover a vibrant community dedicated to driving positive change through people-powered solutions. Here are three reasons this conference is a must-attend event for business leaders committed to social good:
Discover Community-Led Solutions: Our conference is all about learning to empower colleagues to support community-led initiatives that drive meaningful change. Find new ways to harness the power of your workforce to create a lasting impact in the communities you serve.
Learn how Citi aligned community needs with employee talents in “Community First: Building a Responsive Skills-Based Volunteer Program.”
Strengthen Nonprofit Relationships: Gain invaluable insight into building stronger alliances with nonprofits. Explore the nuances of collaboration and discover strategies for maximizing the effectiveness of your company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Check out “Building Transformational Mentorship Programs: Women in the Workforce” to better understand the role of authenticity in co-creating programming.
Develop Impactful In-Person Connections: In an era dominated by virtual meetings, the Points of Light Conference offers a rare opportunity for focused connection with peers and partners face-to-face, away from the day-to-day elements of your role. Join us to forge new relationships and strengthen existing ones in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Join us for three Civic Talks that offer all conference attendees deep learning and takeaways from innovative cross-sector leaders on the connections between education and equity, AI and civic engagement, and faith and belonging.
But what truly sets the Points of Light Conference apart is its inclusive and intentional approach to conference programming. By bringing together both peers and community partners, this conference offers a range of benefits:
Diverse Perspectives: Engage in discussions enriched by the diverse perspectives of community partners from across the world, leading to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of social issues.
Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network beyond your immediate circle and explore collaboration opportunities with stakeholders from different sectors, which can open doors to new partnerships, investment possibilities and resource-sharing.
Holistic Solutions: Strategize with peers and community partners to design comprehensive approaches that address complex problems and solve for the needs of all stakeholders involved.
Knowledge Exchange: Tap into the collective wisdom of all attendees to enhance your understanding and expertise. Your peers can share best practices, research findings, and professional experiences, while community partners can provide on-the-ground insights and real-world examples.
Enhanced Impact: By bridging the gap between sectors, conferences like Points of Light amplify the impact of your work, leading to more effective solutions and greater positive outcomes for communities.
The Points of Light Conference offers corporate social impact leaders a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and co-create solutions that drive meaningful social impact. Join us in Houston this June and be a part of a movement that’s shaping the future of corporate social responsibility.
2024 in Houston, we’re looking forward to all the ways this year’s event will be uniquely impactful. The conference is a global celebration of volunteerism, service and the power of people to create meaningful change, from June 11 through 14 at the Marriott Marquis Houston.
At the forefront of this exciting event stands
, a program of Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston. With five decades of service to its name, Volunteer Houston is ready to welcome attendees while showcasing its vital work connecting volunteers with organizations throughout the Houston area.
We sat down with Martin Cominsky, president and CEO of Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston, and Andrea Shiloh, vice president of volunteerism and civic service and director of the Vic Samuels Center for Volunteerism and Civic Service, to hear about their planning efforts. They shared their insights into why Volunteer Houston chose to co-host this year’s conference, the unique aspects of the 2024 event and how the organization envisions its lasting impact on the community.
Theme: Leading Change Together
Both Martin and Andrea expressed immense excitement at the prospect of co-hosting the Points of Light Conference.
Conference Co-host Martin Cominsky, CEO and president of Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston.
“We’ve long been a leader in volunteerism and civic service,” notes Martin Cominsky. “This conference is a chance to celebrate not only the 50th anniversary of Volunteer Houston, but the 100th anniversary of President George H.W. Bush and the thirtieth anniversary of AmeriCorps.”
Andrea Shiloh elaborates, “Points of Light is a beacon in a world that can be very dark… it’s about collaboration, innovation and transformative change. That transformative change component is going to make the future, not only of our city but the future of our country, so much more solid, so much more certain.”
The conference theme, “Leading Change Together,” perfectly aligns with the mission of both Volunteer Houston and Interfaith Ministries. The organization’s work in Meals on Wheels, refugee resettlement, fostering interfaith relations and promoting volunteerism are all powerful examples of uniting diverse individuals and groups to create positive outcomes.
“There’s no better way in our mind to bring people together of different backgrounds, different faiths, except to work side by side in service,” Martin explains.
Unique Features of the 2024 Conference
Conference Co-host Andrea Shiloh, vice president of volunteerism and civic Service as well as the director of the Vic Samuels Center for Volunteerism and Civic Service.
Andrea and Martin highlight several aspects that set the 2024 conference apart:
Dynamic Lineup: Attendees can look forward to an impressive range of speakers at the 2024 conference. Along with captivating keynotes, over 70 workshops delve into diverse topics within the civic engagement space, promising to offer valuable insights and actionable strategies for attendees to take home and share with their communities.
Discovery Green Food Truck Festival: Wednesday night promises a vibrant celebration at Discovery Green. This event will be filled with entertainment, lively camaraderie and a delicious taste of Houston’s diverse food scene. Get ready to mingle with fellow changemakers and savor the flavors that make Houston a culinary destination.
Exploring Houston: Thursday night opens the door to cultural exploration in Houston! Take advantage of free museum visits to immerse yourself in art andhistory. Or opt for discounted theater tickets and experience the city’s thriving arts scene. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the hidden gems and cultural richness that Houston has to offer.
Collaboration Beyond the Conference: The connections and collaborations forged at the Points of Light Conference are designed to have a lasting impact. This convening isn’t just about the days spent in Houston; it’s about the networks formed and the ripple effects of positive change that extend far beyond the conference halls.
Both Martin and Andrea envision the conference having a lasting impact on Houston and fostering connections that extend beyond the event itself.
“I certainly believe it’s an opportunity for us to deepen existing relationships and build new ones,” says Andrea.
Martin adds, “We see it as a leveraging opportunity to bring people from around the world to see the good here, but also for Houstonians to see the global interest in this topic and the importance of this work in our own city.”
Tips for Attendees
To make the most of the conference experience, Andrea and Martin offer these essential tips:
Network, Network, Network: Use the forthcoming conference app and actively engage with fellow attendees from different communities and backgrounds.
Balance Learning Opportunities: Take advantage of both structured workshops and informal networking events throughout the conference.
Bring a Sweater: Yes, Houston is hot in the summer, but most venues are air conditioned. Things can get chilly indoors, so bring a layer!
Mark Your Calendar
As Volunteer Houston celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024, Andrea proudly describes their work: “It’s about making sure that when all is said and done, those who have a purpose and passion have an opportunity to do that in a way that is meaningful and impactful to them.”
The Points of Light Conference is your chance to cultivate that meaning and impact in your own sphere. To register or find out more information, visit the
. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting events and initiatives planned for the 2024 Points of Light Conference, co-hosted by the incredible team at Volunteer Houston.
Thanks to our presenting sponsor, UPS; platinum sponsor, Delta Airlines; silver sponsors, AARP Foundation, Allstate and Lowe’s; our bronze sponsor, GM; and supporters Altria and Liberty Mutual Insurance. Learn the value of partnering with Points of Light at the 2024 Points of Light Conference and find out how you can join the movement.
6 Workshops to Watch for at the 2024 Points of Light Conference
, one of the top social impact conferences in the world, is gearing up for another transformative experience. Designed with nonprofits, NGOs and companies in mind, our unique blend of inspiring keynotes, actionable workshops and invaluable networking, is sure to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and equipped to make a difference.
As the conference agenda is taking shape, you might be curious to explore which of the more than 70 workshops you’ll want attend. We’ve put together a list of six to watch for, as well as which sector each is tailored to. These workshops promise to deliver innovative strategies, practical tools and the insights you need to take your social impact efforts to the next level.
1. Jump Start Strategic Volunteer Engagement Through Self-Assessment and Asset Sharing to Implement Change
Calling all nonprofit professionals! Transform your organization’s approach to volunteerism with AL!VE’s dynamic workshop. Start by assessing your current volunteer engagement practices against a proven framework for success. Then dive into facilitated networking where you’ll share resources, gain support and brainstorm fresh ideas to enhance your strategy. Leave equipped with the tools and knowledge to ignite organizational buy-in, implement lasting change and propel your organization towards becoming a Service Enterprise – a prestigious designation for organizations that excel in strategic volunteer engagement.
2. Trends Shaping the Future of Corporate Social Impact
Are you a passionate CSR professional? Then this workshop is for you. Dive into the groundbreaking research and trends driving the evolution of purpose-driven business. ACCP’s 2024 CSR Insights Survey, coupled with their extensive experience working with over 250 leading organizations, reveals the cutting-edge approaches shaping the future of corporate social impact. This session is your roadmap to enhancing employee engagement, maximizing the impact of corporate giving, strategizing community investment, refining impact measurement and championing equity and inclusion.
3. Change Takes Community. Healing Takes Heart
For community organizers and those who work with youth, this workshop is sure to provide value. Join this urgent discussion on the mental, social and physical health of girls with changemakers Nancy Wright (CEO, Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana) and Mackenzie Pickerrell (Executive Director, Girl Coalition of Indiana) to confront this growing crisis. They’ll expose the devastating effects of social media, societal pressures and rising suicide rates on girls, backed by compelling data and stories. But this session isn’t just about the problems; it’s about solutions. Explore the powerful role of empathy, collaboration and disruptive innovation in creating a brighter future for girls.
4. Community Agreements: Creating an Inclusive Foundation for Social Change
Are you a mid-career nonprofit professional looking to take your skills to the next level? Are you getting tired of programs that miss the mark? Don’t miss this workshop, where you’ll explore how to co-create solutions with the very people you aim to serve. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how Community Agreements foster equity, inclusivity and responsiveness in your programming. Forget just talking about the importance of community input – you’ll practice it! Elevate your programming with this new knowledge and take your organization’s impact to the next level.
5. How to Make Data Driven Decisions to Support Philanthropic Investments and Volunteerism
For corporate professionals, discover powerful new tools to ensure your philanthropic and educational efforts are making a real difference. KPMG and NAF are unveiling solutions that bring clarity and strategic direction to community support initiatives. See how KPMG’s Impact Framework creates a cohesive impact narrative and drives strategic decision-making for their philanthropic investments. Then discover NAF’s free Open Data Index for Schools (ODIS) – including a live demo. Gain a holistic understanding of school community challenges and use data to compare districts for targeted interventions.
6. A Deep Look at Civic Language & What to Say in Polarized Times
Be sure not to miss a workshop that can benefit all attendees. Do your conversations sometimes spark conflict instead of connection? In today’s polarized climate, even well-intentioned words can drive us further apart. PACE’s groundbreaking Civic Language Perceptions Project reveals how Americans perceive the language we use when discussing democracy and civic engagement. You’ll explore hidden meanings behind common words and phrases, how to build bridges with your language, how to motivate for action… and so much more.
Don’t miss out on attending the 2024 Points of Light Conference, June 11–14, 2024, in Houston, to network with 1,500 fellow peers, learn and attend workshops all about volunteer engagement and volunteer management best practices. Over two and a half days, get full access to compelling discussions around Jumpstarting Strategic Volunteer Engagement Through Self-Assessment and Asset Sharing; Managing Through Uncertainty for Volunteers, Staff and Communities; Building volunteer persona strategies for individuals, companies and donors; and much more.
This global event, happening at the Marriott Marquis Houston, is tailor-made for volunteer management experts, like you, who are passionate about civic engagement and are looking for ways to level up. Early bird pricing saves on average $150 and is available now at just $625 for government/nonprofit organizations.
In addition to hotel rooms being available at the official conference site, the Marriott Marquis Houston, the Hilton Americas Houston offers rooms to Points of Light Conference attendees at a discounted rate. The hotel is right across the street from the Marriott Marquis Houston, where conference sessions will take place.
Thanks to our presenting sponsor, UPS; platinum sponsor, Delta Airlines; silver sponsors, AARP Foundation, Allstate and Lowe’s; our bronze sponsor, GM; and supporters Altria and Liberty Mutual Insurance. Learn the value of partnering with Points of Light at the 2024 Points of Light Conference and find out how you can join the movement.
Leverage the Points of Light Conference to Help Strengthen Your Strategic Volunteer Engagement
for over a decade meeting fellow nonprofit professionals, mingling with corporate social responsibility partners and hearing diverse perspectives and experiences that are shaping the future of volunteer and community engagement. Every year, I am excited to connect with new people, hear about innovative practices and be inspired by fellow attendees and presenters. Here are five recommendations that will not only help you make the most of conference but also help get your organization on its way to operating as a
Whether you have been going for years or are a first timer, I challenge you to sit by a variety of individuals throughout the sessions you attend. Connect with them and ask what they are most excited about, the best session they attended or what they are inspired to do differently. If you want to learn more about them and their work, connect through the conference app or via
. Many vendors can help you work smarter, not harder. Don’t just take the vendor’s word — often, you can connect with some of their customers to get firsthand reviews while at conference.
No one person will succeed doing volunteer and community engagement alone. A theme I have seen over the last decade is the most successful and impactful efforts have the support of the whole organization, not just the volunteer engagement staff. Learn from others’ successes and maybe even their failures.
4. Say thanks to the corporate partners.
At lunches and in the hallways, keep an eye out for corporate partners that represent your local companies. Make sure to share success stories of local efforts. If you don’t know any, I encourage you to ask how they would describe their ideal nonprofit partner or what they look for in a partnership. It is a great conversation starter and will help you connect with corporate partners in the future.
5. Bring it back.
Make sure to bring back what you learned and share it, not just with the volunteer engagement team but with a cross-functional team that will help lead
at your organization. Connect with the presenters and let them know you are going to share what you learned. Sometimes they may even be able to help you.
Learn more about Service Enterprise, connect with volunteer engagement professionals across the country and get a ribbon to add to your badge.
I look forward to seeing you at the
(CSC) gathered in Chicago last month before the official kickoff of the Points of Light Conference. The conversations were lively with folx reconnecting with peers and making new connections.
Although we stay connected via virtual meetings year-round, some of the best learning and inspiration comes from our in-person events. When we gather,
always flow from our guest speakers and peer conversations. I was scribbling fast notes to keep up with the great thoughts shared by our dynamic speakers, many of whom – like me – are Chicagoans and all of whom are doing good in the world, whether that is through academia, social entrepreneurship, filmmaking, storytelling or business.
More than 100 of us packed the room to hear from Dr. Nicholas Pearce, clinical professor of management and organizations at Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management and founder and CEO of
; and a panel moderated by Marianna Ruiz, executive vice president and executive creative director at Edelman, featuring Brenda Robinson, head of film finance and inclusion strategies at HiddenLight Productions, Diane Quon, producer at Quonco Productions, Mark Mitten, founding and managing partner of Mitten Media, and Nate Clark, global director of corporate social responsibility at John Deere and president of the John Deere Foundation.
Here are just a few of the top takeaways from our time together:
Pursue Purpose as a Pathway
Staying connected to your purpose, particularly as a CSR professional, is a daily pursuit. We must “connect soul to role,” said Dr. Pearce, and really do the work we are built for as individuals. And even when you have connected soul to role, rest is essential. It’s not a reward we earn after working until exhaustion; we have to work from and out of rest, not for it. On the days when your work feels like an uphill climb, when a program isn’t having the impact you hoped or the business integration you know matters isn’t materializing, that’s when you most need to reconnect to purpose.
Learn and Lead Locally
Real and sustainable change happens at the hyperlocal level, but only if we start by listening and learning from the community. As CSR and employee volunteer programs go to scale or become global, the voices of the local nonprofits and neighborhood leaders can get lost, leading to systemic inequities going unaddressed. Jahmal Cole shared some powerful reminders about why the grassroots connection is key and encouraged all of us to conduct community asset maps before seeking to partner or program in a geography.
Stories on the Screen = Social Impact
Films can make us think or act differently, and that’s especially true for documentary projects that introduce us to new places, people, and realities. As panelist Brenda Robinson said, “The first thing we [filmmakers] look at is how to you change minds and hearts with art.” CSC member John Deere is one company that has leveraged filmmaking for social impact (learn about America’s volunteer fire service in
), but even if your company never makes a documentary, there are some transferable storytelling lessons all of us can learn from. One that’s stuck with me: storytelling is about listening and learning, and that’s the foundation for high-impact social action, and it can come in many forms, like your internal corporate newsletter, a panel conversation, a first-person share from a colleague or nonprofit partner, or even a social media post.
New Corporate Service Council Chair, Anita Whitehead, president and chair of the KPMG US Foundation in conversation with Dr. Nicholas Pearce, clinical professor of management and organizations at Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management and founder and CEO of The Vocati Group.
In our time together, we also announced our next Corporate Service Council chair: Anita Whitehead, president and chair of the KPMG US Foundation. Since the CSC started in 2005, our chair companies have played a critical role in leading the council and ensuring that we continue bringing together top brands, purpose-driven leaders and subject matter experts.
I’m looking forward to gathering with all the forward-thinking and purpose-driven CSC members at our next events to keep the conversation going. And if you want to be in the room where all this inspiration and learning happens,
Bridging Divides: The Role of Business and Civic Engagement in Addressing Polarization
In a world characterized by increasing polarization, businesses and business leaders find themselves at the center of a brewing storm. Action might come with backlash and silence could signal complicity. What can corporate citizenship practitioners do to mitigate the negative effects of polarization inside and outside their company and help others find common ground? The Business Summit at the 2023 Points of Light Conference explored this theme and the crosswinds that corporate citizenship leaders are navigating daily.
68% of Business Summit attendees believe that polarization has impacted their workplace.
Points of Light’s Chief Global Corporate Solutions Officer Katie Stearns kicked off the session with a focus on the business case for engagement. Although the question of whether companies should voice opinions on societal issues remains contentious, research indicates that, around the world, stakeholders expect them to take a stand. Depending on the issue, roughly 70 to 90% of respondents in the
said they “expect CEOs to take a public stand on issues” such as climate change, discrimination, and the wealth gap. The same goes for smaller businesses. Points of Light’s recent
reports that the general public has high expectations of how small businesses get involved in social issues. For instance, half the public and two-thirds of small business owners ranked speaking out as “pretty important or essential.”
A
report highlights that 88% of CSR leaders believe companies should be courageous and take a stand, even if it means alienating some people. With this much buy-in, it becomes a business imperative to determine a course of action and who better than social impact professionals to champion this work? Stearns doubled down on this point by highlighting the power corporate citizenship leaders have to positively shape the discourse and dealings inside their company, which ultimately trickle out into society.
“You have influence. Not just at the table with senior leaders when they’re deciding how to engage on an issue publicly, but also internally as interpreters and agents of your company’s core values, civic engagement strategies, and culture of service,” said Points of Light’s Chief Global Corporate Solutions Officer katie stearns.
CSR leaders can navigate economic and social pressures successfully by being prepared and joining the bridging movement as a safe space to invest in democracy and civility. Bruce Bond, co-founder and CEO of a bridging organization called
, shared that, although media might emphasize our polarity, many studies reveal that Americans are closely aligned on major social issues. He also introduced their
as one of the models that companies can use to empower employees to have respectful conversations in the workplace and emphasized one of its most appreciated tenets to take winning off the table.
Then, Bruce welcomed three business leaders to the stage to share how their companies are navigating polarization in the workplace. The panel included Pamela Everhart, senior vice president, regional public affairs and community relations at Fidelity Investments; Nick Nottoli, director, reputation management and insights at Allstate; and Clarita Santos, executive director of corporate and civic partnerships at Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC).
The panelists agreed that the pervasive challenge of polarization requires companies to implement strategies that create civility and build empathy within organizations. Consistency in both corporate action and application of values is vital for gaining and maintaining stakeholders’ trust.
Here are some approaches that the panelists shared:
Authenticity is Essential: Senior leaders must recognize the importance of engagement and move beyond the sidelines. Demonstrating authentic reasons for taking a stand can help companies gather allies and build collective courage. Case in point, Nottoli described the societal engagement framework that provides Allstate leaders with a decision-making tree on whether the company takes on an issue. Criteria for taking a stand include: an issue that aligns with company values, impacts stakeholders, is relevant to Allstate’s business, and on which the company can meaningfully affect change.
Proximity Matters: Contact theory suggests that simply being around others can promote tolerance, acceptance and allyship. Activities such as volunteering together, offering listening and learning sessions, providing nonpartisan voter education, and creating space for open dialogue can help employees connect beyond political differences while also developing a deeper understanding of their community and the issues affecting it. To build civility, each panelist emphasized the importance of putting relationships ahead of any task. In fact, Santos mentioned that the CEO of HCSC is often quoted as saying, “it’s okay to disagree but not be disagreeable.” Social connection built through supportive and inclusive relationships strengthens an individual’s wellbeing and also the resiliency of communities.
“If my corporate social responsibility team is thinking alike on an issue, then we’re not thinking,” said Pam Everhart, senior vice president, regional public affairs and community relations at Fidelity Investments
Culture is Key: Since most of us spend half our waking lives at work, mutual respect built inside workplaces can have positive consequences for society. Employees are more likely to stay and thrive in an environment where they feel respected, heard, valued, and connected to a larger purpose. That culture should also be inquisitive and ready to explore an issue from all sides as no one person shares the same lived experience. Everhart encouraged the audience to question their own echo chambers and build “challenge networks.“ She said, “If my corporate social responsibility team is thinking alike on an issue, then we’re not thinking.” Truly, workplaces need to embrace having better arguments to enable the discovery of better solutions. As ambassadors of organizational values, every CSR practitioner has the power to influence and champion an inclusive culture.
To conclude the Business Summit, Founder and Managing Partner of
and Co-Founder of NYCNext Maryam Banikarim took the stage to share a story of a recent project she dubbed, The Longest Table. Put simply, during the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, she and her New York City neighbors hosted an outdoor meal where more than 500 community members came together – even those who might not normally break bread together. This simple act of community building is now being replicated around the world. She ended her keynote with two significant learnings from the project that resonated with attendees: it takes just a few to build a movement and that there is no better time for “we, not me.”
In today’s polarized world, businesses have a significant role to play in helping society find common ground. Although challenges persist, there are strategies that can promote empathy and mitigate the negative impacts of polarization. By embracing these strategies, companies can foster a sense of purpose, enhance employee wellbeing, and contribute to a more cohesive and inclusive society. As CSR leaders can demonstrate, community engagement breeds belonging and service truly unites.
A Legacy of Leading Change
Building Personal Connections
