According to AmeriCorps, 34.7 percent of Iowans volunteer. The Employer Volunteer Initiative is a targeted effort by Volunteer Iowa to increase that number through engagement with employers.

We work with businesses to support employee volunteer programs and recognize employers already making a difference in Iowa. 

34.7%

Percentage of Iowans who volunteer, according to AmeriCorps.

Why should employees volunteer?  

Here’s what we know. We know that people are more likely to volunteer when asked. We know that it’s most effective to meet people where they already are to make that ask. From an engagement perspective, places of employment are perfect environments to encourage and support volunteering. Volunteering not only has a significant impact on meeting community needs, but it also has an impact on the business’ bottom line.

By the numbers

From a business perspective, employer-supported volunteering leads to improved employee engagement, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and retention (MGSM, 2013). 

Those are outcomes an employer should pay attention to. In an economy with 5.5% unemployment, employees have more options.

78% of employees would rather work for an ethical and reputable company than receive a higher salary, so companies have a vested interest in building a corporate volunteerism program that works.

The Volunteer IMPACT Survey, Deloitte, 2017.

How can employers participate?

Employer Resources