Building a Successful Volunteer Time Off Program for Employees

We believe a great employee experience extends beyond the workplace. One of the best ways to foster personal growth and community connection is by offering a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) Program, which encourages employees to give back while supporting their well-being.

Why VTO Matters

National Volunteer Week (April 20-26, 2025) is the perfect time to reflect on the benefits of volunteering. Not only does it boost employee satisfaction, but it also strengthens company culture. Employees who take time off to volunteer feel more connected to the company and their community, resulting in increased engagement, fulfillment, and retention.

Key Elements of a Successful VTO Program

• Alignment with Company Values A meaningful Volunteer Time Off Program should reflect your organization’s values and make clear how volunteering efforts contribute to both the community and your mission.
• Offer Flexibility Empower team members to choose the causes or organizations that resonate most with them. Flexible options ensure broader participation and a more meaningful experience.  
• Promote Group Volunteering Encourage team bonding through group volunteer days. Volunteering together outside of the office can strengthen relationships and promote collaboration.
• Celebrate Volunteer Efforts Recognize employees for their volunteer work, whether through shout-outs in All Hands, intranet and social media posts, or rewards like additional time off. Recognition is proven to drive continued engagement and a more connected workplace. 

Best Practices for Maximizing VTO Benefits

• Communicate Regularly Consistent communication ensures employees are aware of VTO opportunities and understand how to get involved.​
• Track and Evaluate Impact Collect feedback and assess the outcomes of the VTO Program to measure benefits for both employees and the community, facilitating continuous improvement.​

Spotlight on Successful VTO Implementation

Patagonia, the outdoor apparel company renowned for its commitment to environmental sustainability, offers employees up to 18 hours of paid time off annually to volunteer for environmental initiatives. This policy not only reinforces its corporate values but also enhances employee engagement and attracts talent aligned with its mission.

Volunteering Drives Engagement

By offering Volunteer Time Off, companies help employees connect with causes they care about as well as enhance job satisfaction, improve retention, and build stronger communities.

Implementing a VTO Program is a strategic move that benefits employees, the organization, and the broader community. By thoughtfully designing and promoting such a program, companies can cultivate a culture of engagement and social responsibility.