At some level, every human wants to make a positive difference in the lives of others. We may want to make an impact while feeling like there aren’t enough hours in the day to make it a priority. Volunteer time off (VTO) makes it possible to balance giving back and collecting a paycheck. When coupled with a company’s mission to create a thoughtful work environment, VTO can boost an organization’s reputation and company culture.
Since Green Apple was founded, we’ve placed great emphasis on the importance of community outreach and have offered pro bono services to nonprofits and organizations across Tennessee, including Survivor Fitness and Thistle Farms. Now, every member of the Green Apple team has the opportunity to receive paid time off to volunteer with organizations of their choice.
How Volunteer Time Off Works
Companies that offer paid time off for volunteering typically give one or two days a year to do so. Hours that can be used for volunteerism are usually separate from PTO for other uses like vacation or sick days.
Green Apple provides 16 hours a year of volunteer PTO. The system at Green Apple allows us to choose our own activity and submit a request for time off to volunteer on our own. In addition to volunteering on our own at the place of our choosing, we also volunteer as a team several times throughout the year. In 2022, Green Apple began volunteering with Thistle Farms. Since then, we’ve been working to strengthen our relationship and expand our support for the organization. In December 2023, Green Apple CEO Samantha Owens Pyle joined the Thistle Farms board and was appointed as the organization’s first External Affairs Chair in July 2024. In this role, Samantha (joined by several Green Apple team members) has collaborated with Thistle Farms’ Marketing Director and Vice President of External Affairs to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at achieving record-breaking Q4 results in fundraising, retail sales, and volunteer engagement.
Benefits for All
Paid time off for volunteering is a win-win-win situation. For starters, a UnitedHealthcare study shows that of the respondents who volunteered in a 12-month period, 93% said they experienced an improved mood, and 79% reported lower stress levels. There is a real link between personal happiness and productivity at work. By encouraging your employees to volunteer, you may boost their mental health, which would benefit the whole company.
Studies show that companies with highly engaged employees outperform their competitors by 147% and are 21% more profitable. In a recent blog, we also suggested several other strategies to boost employee engagement and morale.
Volunteer time off can be a workplace perk that helps your company stand out from the competition. Adding VTO to an existing list of people-supportive perks (such as remote work and flexible schedules) will also have an impact on engaging current and future employees alike.
Finally, VTO is a great way to build camaraderie among your team members while they give back. Members of the Green Apple team recently participated in YUM!East, an annual fundraising event benefiting Fannie Battle Day Home in Nashville. Our team in Charlotte also volunteered their time for a cause benefiting the Move For Jenn Foundation.
Acknowledging social responsibility and volunteerism in your marketing is even a powerful way to leverage your company’s community to create deeper, more personal connections with your customers.
VTO is a growing employee perk that can set your company apart. A strong internal culture not only attracts top talent but also boosts your external brand, making your business a sought-after place to work and partner with. Ready to align your recruitment, engagement, and brand strategies? Green Apple Strategy can help. Contact us today to build a strategic plan for long-term success, and don’t forget to sign up for The Core, our monthly newsletter, for the latest marketing insights and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox!