6 Fresh Corporate Volunteering Lessons for Volunteer Coordinators

Corporate volunteering isn’t what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. Gone are the days of providing surface-level services like painting walls (for the 8th time) or sorting food for a photo op. Nonprofits can ask more of companies, and companies are ready to step up to help in a genuinely impactful way.

In a recent webinar hosted by the Charity Shift Network, experts Eric Franzo (CEO of Purposely) Sara Hoshooley, and Jessica Pang Parks explored how to build meaningful corporate volunteer experiences that deliver value for both nonprofits and businesses.

Watch the Webinar Recording Here

Here are six key takeaways that volunteer coordinators can consider to reshape the way we think about volunteer partnerships.

1. Companies Want Real Connection, Not Just Optics

The shift to hybrid and remote work has left many corporate teams searching for new ways to reconnect. Volunteering offers a unique combination of team-building and social good, making it an appealing solution. In fact, 70% of millennials say they wouldn’t work for a company that lacks a social impact strategy. Mid-sized companies (with 300–500 employees) are especially motivated to get involved, they just need the right opportunities.

2. Volunteers Are Motivated by Different Things

Not every volunteer is driven by passion for a cause. Some are simply looking for a break from their screens, a chance to socialize, or an opportunity to give back with their co-workers. Understanding that each group has different motivations allows nonprofits to design more inclusive and engaging experiences. Corporate Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), for instance, often seek opportunities tied to cultural or diversity awareness months.

3. Clarity is Everything

Nonprofit organizations must be clear about what they need and what it costs. Vague instructions or poor planning can kill momentum fast. Providing a “menu” of volunteer opportunities, including tasks, ideal group size, time required, and associated costs helps companies commit with confidence. Companies should also expect that a nonprofit may ask for a donation to cover supplies or staff time.

4. Think Beyond Traditional Volunteering

Today’s most impactful volunteer experiences often go beyond manual labour. From virtual Canva flashcards for literacy programs to resumé coaching for newcomer women in tech, there are endless creative ways to contribute. One inspiring example from Purposely: a corporate team helped set up a holiday toy pop-up shop in two hours, something that normally takes staff two weeks.

5. Your Best Leads Are Already in Your Network

When looking for companies to work with, instead of cold outreach, start with people who already support your mission: volunteers, donors, board members, or even past corporate partners. Within companies, target those in HR, CSR, or People & Culture departments. One nonprofit in Vancouver, Plenty of Plates, routinely secures $5,000 in donations and 20 volunteers per shift using this method.

6. Education Makes Experiences Stick

Finally, layering education into volunteer days creates a deeper impact. A short orientation or walking tour can provide critical context and shift perspectives. Volunteers walk away not just having “helped,” but understanding the systems behind the need, and often become long-term advocates.

Final Thoughts

The future of corporate volunteering is intentional, inclusive, and integrated into a company’s culture. For nonprofits, this means thinking strategically, communicating clearly, and designing experiences that create real value for all parties. When done right, volunteer days can spark powerful partnerships and meaningful change.