The Standards of Excellence in Volunteerism

Standard I: Strategy Companies need to develop a thoughtful strategy, one which reflects the values and beliefs of the company with respect to philanthropy, in general, and volunteerism, in particular.  The strategy should incorporate a mission statement, policies and guidelines which: address why the company encourages, promotes and supports volunteerism; provide direction in terms of goals and objectives; align with existing community relations/involvement strategies; and incorporate business objectives, employee interests and community needs.

Standard II: Infrastructure

Companies need to set the scope and parameters within which their programs will operate by establishing a clearly defined program structure and developing processes and procedures to guide their volunteer programs.  Similarly, companies also need to assign the appropriate number of personnel, and allocate sufficient funds, to effectively support, manage and run their programs.

Standard III: Communication

Companies need to develop communications strategies, leverage appropriate communications tools and deliver pertinent information and messages to key internal and external audiences aimed at generating awareness, elevating interest and driving participation.

Standard IV: Leadership

Companies need to encourage a high level of senior management buy-in and support for volunteerism, as well as participation in community and board service activities.

Standard V: Education & Training

Companies need to educate employees and management on the importance of volunteering and train them on how to volunteer/get involved.

Standard VI: Recognition

Companies – especially management– need to recognize employees, both formally and informally, for their commitment of time, talent and energy, as often as possible.

Standard VII: Employee Engagement

Companies need to create a corporate culture that makes employees want to get involved.

Standard VIII: Effective Partnerships

Companies need to establish effective partnerships with the "right" non-profit organizations, those which have the knowledge, experience and capacity to successfully: plan and organize events and activities; coordinate and manage volunteer participation; recognize employee and corporate support; and utilize corporate and community resources in a responsible manner.

Standard IX: Measurement & Evaluation

Companies need to consistently and accurately track employee engagement, both formally and informally, as well as measure and evaluate process and outcome data.