Community Giving

It’s like we intentionally saved the best for last. Community Giving is the last in our series of our Core Values and yet it really is the one that conveys the essence of our CEO’s heart, how she leads her business, and ultimately how she views the world.

The act of extending goodwill to fellow members of humanity, especially toward the needy or suffering, is often rooted in one’s personal values. So, when a leader decides to include Community Giving in their company’s core values it reflects several positive attributes including a dedication to making a positive impact on society and prioritizing the well-being of others. Likewise, when an employee who’s passionate about being kind and generous finds a company that embraces empathy and compassion, there’s an immediate connection that goes beyond the practical benefit of working together and creates a commitment to an uplifting, long term vision of making a meaningful contribution together.

In a 2023 report from Cone Communications, it was revealed that 79% of employees feel a stronger sense of loyalty and are more motivated when they see their employer engaging in social responsibility efforts. This underscores how community giving can boost morale and foster loyalty.

What Are The Benefits Of A Community Giving Culture?

Supporting community giving as a company offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the immediate impact of charitable activities. Here are some key reasons why it's important:

1. Employee Morale and Retention: Employees are more likely to feel proud of and engaged with a company that actively supports community causes.
2. Community Relationships: Supporting local causes fosters good relationships with community members and leaders. This can be beneficial for business operations, including smoother local interactions and support from the community.
3. Positive Public Relations: Community giving can generate positive media coverage and enhance a company’s visibility in a favorable light. This can be particularly valuable in competitive markets.
4. Social Responsibility: Companies that engage in community giving are often seen as more socially responsible. This can align with the values of modern consumers and investors who prioritize ethical business practices.
5. Personal Fulfillment: Many business leaders and employees find personal satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of their communities, which can enhance overall workplace culture and motivation.

How Can Employees Be Proactive In A Community Driven Culture?

As an employee, showing your appreciation of your employer’s commitment to community giving through various actions and behaviors can be easy and rewarding. Here are some effective ways:

1. Active Participation: Engage actively in company-sponsored volunteer events, community service projects or fundraisers. Your involvement demonstrates support and commitment to the company’s values.
2. Advocacy and Promotion: Advocate for the company’s community initiatives within and outside the workplace. Foster a culture of shared values by telling positive stories and achievements related to these efforts on social media or in professional networks.
3. Leadership in Initiatives: Take the initiative to organize or lead community giving activities, such as charity drives or local events, demonstrating proactive support.
4. Acknowledgment and Gratitude: Express appreciation to management for their commitment to community giving, whether through formal feedback, informal conversations, or company surveys.
5. Participating in Skill-Based Volunteering: Use your professional skills to assist in community projects or initiatives that the company supports, adding value through specialized expertise.

From day one, JWilliams Staffing has put community and industry service at the forefront of our company values. “I’ve been humbled by the opportunities I have been able to be involved with, and I am sincerely grateful for what I have learned along the way,” said JoAnne Williams, CEO and owner for JWilliams Staffing. “I hope for all our employees the benefit of understanding the true gift of giving and the lifechanging experiences that can come from it. To give selflessly is something I believe we are called to do.”

From her involvement with building one of the first women’s shelters in Orange County, to personally managing and sharing free training courses, organizing support/networking events, and consistently volunteering/supporting/serving the homebuilding industry especially through one of the biggest downturns in real estate history, JoAnne Williams has dedicated numerous hours to community giving and supports her team in doing the same.

Outside of nurturing careers and helping clients find the right professional fit, JWilliams Staffing continues to serve communities, local charities and the real estate and property management industries both locally and nationally.  With community giving as a core value of our company, giving back isn’t just something we do, it’s a part of who we are.

Sources:

Tandem Theory Review: Purpose-Driven Profits: The Intersection of Marketing & Corporate Social Responsibility