Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are no longer buzzwords; they're essential pillars of a thriving company in today's world. However translating intentions into impactful initiatives can be challenging since so many DEI leaders are juggling multiple priorities and often times wearing multiple hats. In an environment of competing priorities and mountains of work the automation and scale a workplace giving platform provides can turn even a small team into a team of superheros.
Engaging with a workplace giving platform will empower DEI teams to:
Amplify DEI voices and values
- Curated cause libraries: Platforms have libraries of causes that allow employees to go beyond traditional charities. You can feature causes that resonate with diverse employee backgrounds and lived experiences. Showcase causes that support LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice initiatives, disability inclusion, and more.
- Matching gift flexibility: Let employees designate specific causes for their matched donations, empowering them to direct their support towards issues they care about deeply.
- Cause impact reports: Publish detailed reports highlighting the specific outcomes and achievements of your DEI-focused giving programs. This demonstrates transparency and accountability to employees and stakeholders.
Support ERGs and drive engagement
- Direct cause funding: Allocate a portion of your CSR budget to ERGs, allowing them to directly fund and manage their own giving and volunteer initiatives.
- ERG-led campaigns: Platforms give ERGs the tools and resources they need to launch and promote their own cause-focused campaigns, boosting their visibility and impact within the company.
- Knowledge sharing platform: ERGs can share best practices, resources, and success stories, fostering collaboration and collective learning across different groups.
Build bridges and foster belonging
- Employee-led initiatives: Democratize giving by allowing employees to propose and champion their own causes, fostering a sense of ownership and collective impact.
- Inclusive volunteer experiences: Offer a variety of virtual and in-person volunteer opportunities that cater to different abilities and schedules, ensuring everyone feels welcome and included.
- Data-driven insights: Track participation across diverse demographics, identify potential biases in engagement, and use data to inform program adjustments that promote equity and inclusion.
Attract and retain diverse talent
- Showcase commitment to DEI: Highlight impactful CSR initiatives and employee stories on your careers page and internal communications, demonstrating your genuine commitment to creating an inclusive workplace.
- Target diverse talent pools: Partner with organizations that support underrepresented communities and leverage the platform to reach and attract diverse candidates.
- Employee advocacy: Empower employees to become champions of your DEI efforts, sharing their positive experiences and encouraging others to join the company.
Beyond checkbooks: measure impact and drive change
- Impact reporting: Track and share the tangible results of your giving and volunteering initiatives, demonstrating the positive impact your company has on diverse communities.
- Skill-building opportunities: Integrate volunteer experiences with professional development programs, allowing employees to develop new skills while giving back.
- Advocacy and partnerships: Go beyond donations by connecting employees with advocacy opportunities and partnerships with relevant organizations, driving systemic change beyond your company walls.
Workplace giving platforms like Percent Pledge are not just tools for managing donations; they're catalysts for building a more inclusive, equitable, and impactful workplace. By leveraging their features, DEI leaders can amplify voices, create meaningful experiences, and drive positive change both within their companies and across communities.
Additional tips for impactful programs:
- Share employee stories and testimonials about their giving and volunteering experiences.
- Highlight the positive impact your DEI initiatives have on employee morale and engagement.
- Connect your giving programs to broader company goals and values.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in DEI and CSR.
By following these tips and leveraging the power of a workplace giving platform, you can make a significant difference in your organization's DEI journey. Remember, creating an inclusive workplace is not a destination, but an ongoing journey, and Percent Pledge is here to support you every step of the way.
