3

The Neural Link Between Giving & Happiness: What It Means for Your Business

#
employee-engagement
#
giving
Joel Pollick
Founder & CEO
October 22, 2024

We’ve all experienced that warm, uplifting feeling that comes from giving. But now, science confirms that giving doesn’t just feel good—it actually makes us happier. A study published in Nature Communications found a direct link between generosity and increased happiness. The researchers showed that when people commit to giving, their brains activate areas linked to happiness and fulfillment. Even more importantly, this boost in happiness is lasting, especially when people continue to give.

Connection between giving and employee happiness

So, what does this mean for your business? Simply put, employee happiness is directly linked to better business outcomes. Happier employees are more engaged, productive, and loyal. They experience higher levels of employee morale, which drives stronger performance and a healthier workplace culture.

The formula is simple:

  • Giving = happier employees
  • Happier employees = higher employee engagement and better business results

This isn’t just a feel-good idea. When employees feel good about their work environment and have opportunities to give back, they’re more likely to be committed to their roles and the company’s mission.

Why giving is essential for employee engagement

Building opportunities for giving into your company culture can significantly boost employee engagement. When employees have the chance to contribute to causes they care about, it gives their work more meaning and purpose. This, in turn, improves employee morale, which helps reduce burnout and turnover.

Supporting employee giving is more than just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic investment in a happier, more engaged workforce. Engaged employees are more likely to collaborate, innovate, and bring their best to the job each day. And when employee happiness is high, so is business performance.

How to boost employee happiness through giving

Creating a culture of giving doesn’t have to be difficult. By providing employees with simple ways to give back, you’re fostering happiness and boosting morale. Percent Pledge makes it easy for companies to introduce giving programs that increase employee happiness and engagement. To learn how Percent Pledge can help your team thrive, request a demo today.

Other blog posts

Blog
Giving Season Recap: Where Employees Donated in 2025 (And Trends We Predict in 2026)
Giving Season Recap: Where Employees Donated in 2025 (And Trends We Predict in 2026)
#
giving
#
CSR

Giving Season Recap: Where Employees Donated in 2025 (And Trends We Predict in 2026)

A data-driven look at where employees donated in 2025—and how companies should shape CSR strategy in 2026.
Blog
Your Employees ARE Your Heroes: Donor-Centric Workplace Giving
Your Employees ARE Your Heroes: Donor-Centric Workplace Giving
#
platform
#
giving

Your Employees ARE Your Heroes: Donor-Centric Workplace Giving

See how donor-centric workplace giving boosts engagement, retention, and real impact by making employees the heroes.
Blog
From Transactional to Transformational: Reimagining Corporate Giving
From Transactional to Transformational: Reimagining Corporate Giving
#
giving
#
platform

From Transactional to Transformational: Reimagining Corporate Giving

Transform your corporate giving program with strategies that improve participation, retention, and business impact.
bright red decorative half circle shape
light blue decorative hexagon

See your new platform live

Get a personalized demo

Percent Pledge is different, by design:

  • Modern design. No training required.
  • Dedicated Social Impact Managers.
  • Lowest donation fees in the industry.

Over 50% of employees engage.