New Approach Emphasizes Clarity and Community Needs
MELBOURNE — Corporate volunteering is undergoing a transformation towards community-led initiatives, according to experts in the field. This shift aims to align employee volunteering efforts with genuine community needs, enhancing both employee engagement and societal impact.
Recent data shows that approximately 77% of companies have reported increased employee participation in volunteering programs. In Australia, around 80% of organisations now offer formal volunteering opportunities, with research suggesting each dollar invested can yield up to five dollars in community value.
Despite the growing interest, many companies face the ‘impact gap,’ where volunteering efforts may not align with actual community needs. The Social Education Group (TSEG), a Melbourne-based leader in this area, emphasises the importance of well-designed programs. Rachael Banks, Co-Founder of TSEG, highlights the necessity of planning social impact with the same rigor as commercial strategies.
Rethinking Volunteering for Greater Impact
Programs designed by TSEG have been well-received, with participants from companies like Lendlease and Judo Bank expressing increased understanding of social issues. Laurie Hibbs from Judo Bank noted that a recent workshop on homelessness provided essential context, transforming the volunteering experience into one of meaningful engagement and reflection.
TSEG’s approach focuses on preparation, coordination, and community voice to ensure activities support rather than strain partner organisations. Kellie Wishart, another Co-Founder of TSEG, argues that effective volunteering should be rooted in solidarity rather than charity, encouraging empathy and connection.
This trend in corporate volunteering reflects a broader movement within the sector towards sustainable and impactful social responsibility initiatives. As more companies recognise their role in community support, programmes like those offered by TSEG are likely to set the standard for future corporate volunteering efforts.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 6:39 pm
