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How your employees’ experiences influence their charitable giving

Posted on by Philip Webb

Personal experiences and social networks play a crucial role in the charities your teams choose to support through giving. It makes perfect sense that, when individuals witness or experience a cause firsthand, they are more likely to donate and encourage others to do the same. Your businesses can harness this power by encouraging the individuals in your teams to share their giving stories, building a culture of generosity and engagement.

How you can encourage story sharing

Businesses can:

  • Create internal platforms for employees to share their experiences.
  • Highlight individual stories in company newsletters or meetings.
  • Organise events where employees can discuss their charitable activities.

Sharing these stories can inspire others to get involved and highlight the personal impact of charitable actions.

The hidden impact of employee giving

It’s really likely that a number of individuals in your business will be actively engaging in charitable activities outside of work, such as volunteering, pro bono work, gifts in kind, fundraising, or making personal donations. However, companies often lack the tools to record, measure, and report these contributions. According to a study by Charities Aid Foundation, 62% of employees prefer working for companies that support and encourage giving back to the community. This indicates a significant portion of your workforce is likely already contributing to social good in various ways.

How the IIC platform can work for you

The Investors in Community (IIC) platform can help businesses bring these hidden contributions to light. By using the IIC platform, businesses can:

  • Record all forms of employee giving, from volunteer hours to pro bono work.
  • Measure the impact of these activities through detailed, real-time reports.
  • Report on the collective social impact of the organisation.

This not only boosts employee morale but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to Social Impact. By leveraging your employees’ personal connections to charities and their experiences, you can improve your business’ culture of giving and can enhance your overall social impact.

Take action

How is your business capturing the hidden Social Impact of your employees’ charitable giving for good? Discover how the IIC platform can help you record, measure, and report on all forms of giving, creating a transparent and impactful CSR strategy. Get in touch to find out more.

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Meta Description: Discover how personal experiences and social networks influence charitable giving and how businesses can leverage this through the IIC platform to build a culture of generosity and measure social impact effectively.

Keywords: charitable giving, social impact, employee engagement, personal experiences, social networks, volunteering, pro bono work, Investors in Community, community engagement, social responsibility, business giving, IIC platform

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It makes perfect sense that your employees are more likely to support a cause they feel personally connected to. Through sharing their experiences with colleagues, it can build a stronger culture of giving in your business, and inspire others to get involved. 

But how can you record, measure and report on these acts of kindness? Well that’s where the IIC platform comes in. Take a look at our article and if our suggestions resonate with you, get in touch with us!

#SocialImpact #EmployeeEngagement #CharitableGiving #CommunitySupport #BusinessImpact #IIC

The benefits of giving beyond monetary donations

Posted on by Philip Webb

There’s no doubt that businesses and individuals are feeling the pinch. What might surprise you is that in 2023 there was a record £13.9 billion donated to charity by the UK public (up from £12.7 billion in 2022). It will be fascinating to see if the figures continue to rise during 2024, but while financial donations remain essential, it’s important to recognise the significant impact of non-monetary contributions. Good people still want to do good, even if they can’t afford to donate as much money as they would like to. 

We’re going to take a look at the various ways to give and how these contributions can be just as valuable, if not more so, in times of economic hardship.

Volunteering time and skills One of the most powerful ways to give back is through volunteering. Businesses can encourage their employees to volunteer their time and skills to local charities and community projects. Whether it’s providing professional expertise, participating in community clean-ups, or mentoring disadvantaged youth, these efforts create tangible benefits for those in need. People feel great when they help others, and NCVO’s 2023 Time Well Spent survey illustrates this, with volunteers reporting positive impacts on their lives such as enjoyment (89% of respondents), making a difference (89%), a sense of achievement (88%) and increased social connection (87%). Volunteering builds a sense of purpose and engagement among your teams, boosting morale and building stronger connections within the community.

Donating goods and services Another impactful way to contribute is by donating goods and services. Businesses can offer surplus inventory, office supplies, or even pro-bono services to charities and community organisations. For instance, a marketing firm could provide free advertising services to a local non-profit, or a restaurant could donate meals to a homeless shelter. These contributions can significantly alleviate operational costs for charities and enable them to direct more resources towards their core mission.

Engaging in community projects Businesses can play a vital role in local community projects. From sponsoring local events to participating in neighbourhood improvement initiatives, businesses can use their influence and resources to drive positive change. This type of involvement builds connections with a business’ local community and strengthens its reputation and relationship with local stakeholders.

Employee-driven initiatives Encouraging employees to spearhead their own charitable initiatives can lead to creative and impactful ways of giving. Businesses can support these efforts by providing resources, time, and platforms for employees to organise fundraisers, charity drives, or awareness campaigns. This approach empowers employees, builds a culture of giving, and generates diverse ideas for community support.

Leveraging the IIC platform Investors in Community (IIC) offers a comprehensive platform to manage, measure, and report all forms of giving. Businesses can use the IIC platform to record volunteer hours, track donated goods and services, and report on community project involvement. The platform’s Community Credits system quantifies these contributions, providing a tangible measure of Social Impact. This transparency builds trust with stakeholders and showcases the real impact of the business’s social responsibility efforts.

Measuring tangible impact The IIC platform enables businesses to see the direct results of their non-monetary and financial contributions. Detailed reporting tools help businesses understand the value of their efforts and communicate this impact to employees, customers, and investors. By highlighting the breadth of their social impact, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, even in economically challenging times.

Giving is about so much more than just money. Businesses can still make significant Social Impact through volunteering, donating goods and services, engaging in community projects, and supporting employee-driven initiatives. The IIC platform helps businesses track and showcase these contributions, ensuring that every act of giving is recognised and valued. By broadening our understanding of giving, we can all continue to support our communities and create a positive social impact, no matter our financial situation.

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Meta Description: Discover how businesses can make a significant social impact beyond monetary donations. Learn about volunteering, donating goods, community projects, and how the Investors in Community (IIC) platform can help manage and measure these contributions.

Keywords: social impact, non-monetary donations, volunteering, donating goods, community projects, employee engagement, IIC platform, social responsibility, sustainability, business giving, community involvement

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Despite the economic squeeze, last year the UK public donated a record £13.9 billion to charity. Giving isn’t just about the money, though. Businesses can significantly impact their communities through pro bono work, volunteering, donating goods and services, and engaging in local projects. Learn how the IIC platform can help you measure and report your teams’ contributions effectively, showcasing your Social Impact in a uniquely transparent way. 

How is your business making an impact beyond monetary donations?

#SocialImpact #CommunityEngagement #BusinessGiving #IIC #ESG

How Can I Effectively Spend my Year End Charity Budgets?

Posted on by Philip Webb

While the tradition of year-end generosity among UK businesses is commendable, a critical issue often arises as companies hurriedly allocate surplus budgets to charities in a bid to meet philanthropic commitments before the fiscal year concludes.

For many businesses, unspent charity budgets are often absorbed back into the P&L, and therefore lost. The perceived solution is to hurriedly find random charities to fulfil the philanthropy aims of the original purpose driven budget.

The problem lies in the scattered nature of these donations, as the urgency to utilise funds can result in a lack of strategic deployment.

 

The Challenge of Scattered Year End Donations:

Lack of Focus: The urgency to utilise surplus budgets before the fiscal year-end can lead to hasty decisions, causing companies to donate to a diverse range of causes without a clear focus or strategic alignment.

Limited Impact: Scattered donations may result in minimal impact on any single cause, as the funds are spread thin across various charities. This dilution diminishes the potential for creating substantial, long-lasting change.

Missed Opportunities: Charities receiving last-minute, scattered donations may struggle to plan and implement effective programs, missing out on the chance to optimize the impact of the funds received.

 

If you are a charity budget holder with surplus yet to be allotted, and would like to find a controlled solution, then help is at hand.

Investors In Community www.investorsincommunity.org is able to hold your donation in a charity wallet, that you can allot to your chosen good causes over the months or even years that follow your current year end.

By uploading your budget to your business profile wallet, it has in legal terms been donated to the Investors In Community Giving (IICG) CIO registered charity. The representation of the money sits in your business’s wallet, and you are able to then instruct the passing of this money to your chosen charities and good causes, whenever you want, in whatever denominations you choose.

The benefits are clear:

  1. You can select those causes that fit your evolving strategic aims, as opposed to reactively throwing the budget at a variety of charities as a means to commit to your CSR budget spend
  1. This can be done over your year end, as you have effectively donated to IICG charity, but you still control the funds for later deployment
  2. Better outcomes are then evidenced, by the thought-out donating, and a more defined Impact Statement can be had as a result
  3. All donations are tracked and measured, giving a full audit trail for your records

Use the IIC business wallet all year round, to control, measure, audit, and report all your community and charity giving.

This will save time and money in a single efficient process of managing, deploying, verifying and auditing your business’s generosity.

For more details, contact info@investorsincommunity.org

Why Giving Back To The Community Is Essential For Morale, Awareness, and Growth?

Posted on by Philip Webb

Giving back to the community is essential for morale, awareness, and growth for several reasons:

  1. Fosters a Sense of Purpose and Morale: When individuals or organizations engage in activities that benefit the community, it instills a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Knowing that their actions have a positive impact on others boosts morale and encourages continued engagement.
  2. Builds Stronger Community Bonds: By giving back, individuals and businesses become more connected with the community they serve. This helps to build trust and stronger relationships, leading to a more cohesive and supportive community overall.
  3. Increases Awareness of Social Issues: Engaging in community-focused initiatives exposes individuals and organizations to various social issues and challenges faced by others. This heightened awareness can lead to greater empathy and understanding, encouraging further efforts to address those issues.
  4. Promotes Social Responsibility: Giving back cultivates a sense of social responsibility. It reminds individuals and organizations of their role as members of a larger society and encourages them to contribute positively to its well-being.
  5. Enhances Reputation and Brand Image: Businesses that actively participate in community initiatives are often viewed more favorably by consumers. A strong commitment to social causes can enhance a company’s reputation and brand image, leading to increased customer loyalty and support.
  6. Creates a Positive Cycle of Giving: When individuals or organizations give back to the community, it often inspires others to do the same. This positive cycle of giving can lead to a more compassionate and supportive society.
  7. Encourages Personal and Professional Growth: Engaging in community service and giving back can provide individuals with valuable learning experiences. It allows them to develop new skills, expand their network, and gain a broader perspective on life and the world.
  8. Addresses Local Needs and Gaps: By actively participating in community initiatives, individuals and organizations can identify and address specific needs and gaps that may be overlooked by larger institutions. This targeted approach can have a more direct and meaningful impact.
  9. Strengthens Civic Engagement: Giving back encourages people to be more involved in their communities, whether through volunteering, activism, or participating in local events. This increased civic engagement contributes to the overall health and vibrancy of the community.
  10. Contributes to Sustainable Development: Community-focused initiatives often aim to create sustainable solutions to various challenges. By actively working towards long-term solutions, individuals and organizations contribute to the sustainable development of the community and society as a whole.

In summary, giving back to the community is not only a way to help others but also a means of personal and professional growth. It strengthens community bonds, raises awareness of important issues, and fosters a more compassionate and responsible society. By actively participating in community initiatives, individuals and organizations can make a positive difference and contribute to a brighter future for everyone. That is where Investors in Community comes in.

If  you are interested in learning more or how IIC can help you achieve these goals, please contact a member of our team today: info@investorsincommunity.org

When you engage in acts of kindness, only good things happen…

Posted on by Philip Webb
As you help someone or give a gift, your brain secretes “feel good” chemicals such as: Serotonin (which regulates your mood). Dopamine (which gives you a sense of pleasure). Oxytocin (which creates a sense of connection with others):
  1. Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, happiness, and overall emotional well-being. Acts of kindness and generosity can lead to increased serotonin levels in the brain, contributing to a more positive and uplifted mood.
  2. Dopamine: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with the brain’s reward and pleasure system. Acts of kindness can trigger the release of dopamine, creating a sense of pleasure and reward, which reinforces the behavior of helping and giving.
  3. Oxytocin: Oxytocin is often referred to as the “love hormone” or “bonding hormone” because it plays a key role in creating a sense of connection and trust with others. Acts of kindness, particularly those involving social interactions, can lead to increased oxytocin release, fostering a sense of emotional connection and empathy.
  4. Endorphins: Endorphins are neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Engaging in acts of kindness can trigger the release of endorphins, leading to feelings of pleasure and reduced stress.

 

These “feel good” chemicals not only enhance our emotional well-being but also promote positive social interactions and strengthen social bonds. Acts of kindness and giving can have a positive ripple effect, leading to increased happiness and improved social cohesion within communities. Additionally, the act of helping others and experiencing the positive effects of these chemicals can reinforce prosocial behaviors, encouraging individuals to continue engaging in acts of kindness and altruism.

Please feel free to contact a member of our team today: info@investorsincommunity.org

Positive effects of partnering with charities and good causes

Posted on by Philip Webb
Partnering with charities can have several positive effects for businesses and organizations. Here are some of the benefits of partnering with charities to support them:
  1. Enhanced Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Partnering with charities demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility, which can improve the public image and reputation of a company. It shows that the organization is actively engaged in making a positive impact on society.
  2. Increased brand visibility and awareness: Collaborating with charities allows for joint marketing and promotional activities, which can increase brand visibility and awareness. Through such partnerships, businesses can reach new audiences and potential customers who may be more inclined to support a brand that aligns with charitable causes.
  3. Positive brand association: Supporting a charity can create positive associations with a brand. Consumers often perceive companies involved in charitable activities as more caring and compassionate. This association can lead to increased customer loyalty and positive brand sentiment.
  4. Employee engagement and morale: Partnering with charities can boost employee engagement and morale. Many employees appreciate working for companies that are involved in meaningful initiatives and give back to society. Engaging employees in volunteering or fundraising efforts for the chosen charity can foster teamwork and a sense of purpose among staff members.
  5. Networking and collaboration opportunities: Partnering with charities opens doors to collaboration with other organizations and individuals that are involved in similar causes. This can lead to valuable networking opportunities, strategic partnerships, and knowledge sharing.
  6. Tax benefits: Depending on the jurisdiction, businesses may be eligible for tax benefits or deductions for their charitable contributions. This can provide financial incentives for partnering with charities.
  7. Fulfilling a social mission: Partnering with charities allows businesses to contribute to social causes and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. This sense of fulfillment can be rewarding for both the organization and its employees.
  8. Innovation and creativity: Collaborating with charities can spark innovation and creativity within an organization. It may inspire employees to come up with new ideas, products, or services that align with the charitable cause and address societal needs.
  9. Long-term sustainable impact: By partnering with charities, businesses can support projects and programs that create long-term sustainable impact. Whether it’s addressing environmental issues, promoting education, or tackling poverty, sustained support can lead to meaningful change over time.

Overall, partnering with charities provides organizations with an opportunity to give back to society, enhance their brand, engage employees, and create a positive impact on the world around them.

The UK’s upcoming Sustainable Disclosure Requirements (SDR)

Posted on by Philip Webb

The UK’s upcoming Sustainable Disclosure Requirements (SDR) are a set of measures and modifications that would institutionalize and unify SECR, TCFD, and ESOS reporting into an overall, annual set of sustainability reporting requirements.

SDR will include:

  • Full TCFD reporting, including Scope 3 emissions
  • Additional non-climate sustainability and ESG reporting disclosure to include charity and community work (volunteering, donations & gifting)
  • A detailed transition plan outlining the submitter’s path to net zero emissions

 

While SDR has yet to be finalized and officially implemented, we expect it will emerge as the definitive UK sustainability reporting standard. SDR may also introduce a UK Green Taxonomy, similar to EU sustainability legislation.

The UK SDR is designed to centralise the UK’s new enhanced climate, sustainability, and ESG reporting, disclosure, and communications requirements expected to be finalized and take effect: 2023

Let’s look at environmental, social and governance (ESG)

Posted on by Philip Webb

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) are three factors that are used to evaluate the sustainability and ethical impact of a company’s operations.

Environmental factors refer to a company’s impact on the natural environment, including its use of natural resources, greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation, and other forms of pollution. ESG investors look for companies that prioritize sustainability, reducing their environmental footprint, and implementing green initiatives.

Social factors refer to a company’s impact on society, including its relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, and the broader community. ESG investors look for companies that have a positive social impact, such as those that treat their employees fairly, have diverse and inclusive workplaces, and contribute to their communities.

Governance factors refer to a company’s system of management and oversight, including its board of directors, executive compensation, and internal controls. ESG investors look for companies that prioritize good governance practices, such as transparent reporting, strong risk management, and independent board oversight.

By considering these three factors, ESG investors aim to identify companies that are well-managed, financially sound, and have a positive impact on the world. ESG investing has gained popularity in recent years as investors increasingly prioritize sustainability and ethical considerations alongside financial returns.

If  you are interested in learning more or how IIC can help, please contact a member of our team today: info@investorsincommunity.org

 

5 Ways Businesses can support their Communities (and how it helps your marketing)

Posted on by Philip Webb
  1. Volunteerism: Encourage employees to volunteer their time and skills to local charities or events. This can include organizing a team volunteering day or allowing employees to use company time to participate in community events.
  2. Sponsorship: Consider sponsoring local events or charities that align with your business values or goals. This can provide positive exposure for your business and demonstrate your commitment to the community.
  3. Donations: Make monetary or in-kind donations to local organizations or charities that align with your business values or goals. This can include donating a portion of sales to a specific cause or setting up a donation drive for a local charity.
  4. Collaboration: Look for opportunities to collaborate with other businesses or organizations in your community. This can include co-hosting events or partnering on a community project.
  5. Education and Training: Offer education and training opportunities to members of your community, such as workshops or mentorship programs. This can help to build relationships and establish your business as a valuable resource in the community.

How it helps your marketing: Supporting your community can have a positive impact on your marketing efforts. By demonstrating your commitment to the community and aligning your business with local causes, you can build a positive reputation and create strong brand associations. This can lead to increased customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth referrals, and a competitive edge in the market. Additionally, supporting local causes can provide opportunities for media coverage and social media exposure, further amplifying your message and impact.

What is Social Regeneration?

Posted on by Philip Webb

Social regeneration refers to the process of revitalizing and improving social systems and structures in a community or society. It involves addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, social exclusion, and other challenges that can lead to the deterioration of a community’s well-being and quality of life.

Social regeneration initiatives can take many forms, such as investing in education and job training programs, improving public infrastructure and services, fostering community engagement and participation, and supporting local businesses and organizations. The goal is to create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Successful social regeneration requires collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society organizations, as well as the active involvement of community members themselves. It requires a long-term and sustained effort, as the root causes of social problems are often complex and deeply ingrained. However, the benefits of social regeneration can be significant, not only for individuals and communities but also for the wider society as a whole.

If you would like to find out more please visit: https://investorsincommunity.org/