VIOs and ESV: Why ESV?

There a number of reasons why employer supported volunteering has become more important for VIOs and fundraisers:

• To replace reductions in statutory funding
• The need to recruit more volunteers
• The need for skilled volunteers
• The need for different types of volunteers and new audiences
• Increased demand from corporations for community involvement
• The recognition that collaborative working allows sectors to use their particular skills and resources to tackle community issues

Employers from the private and public sectors view their involvement in the community as essential and 72% expect to invest more in community partnerships over the next 3 years.

However, the nature of contributions is changing, with a decline in cash donations and an increase of both in kind donations and giving employees time. Fundraisers report that corporate donors no longer want to donate money solely, but look for partners who can also provide meaningful ways to contribute their skills and resources through ESV.

While the economy has affected this shift, the trend is likely to continue as employers value the benefits they receive from employer supported volunteering and community engagement:

• Employers are increasingly under pressure to demonstrate their corporate responsibility values to internal and external stakeholders
• Employers realise the potential of ESV to deliver improvements in employee engagement, skills development and customer purchasing

Successful ESV benefits both the employer and the community partner. The challenge for many is how to unlock the potential of the increased interest from employers, to create activities and partnerships that create impact for the community.