Join our panel discussion with Ajit Sivaram and Rumi Mallick on how volunteering as a structured citizenship program can be made more impactful and meaningful.
With about 15 million white-collar employees in India, corporate India can potentially volunteer 150 million+ hours annually for social and economic development. How can our volunteering efforts deliver long-term and lasting impacts on our communities? Can NPOs and corporations co-create programs where volunteers can solve societal needs?
A panel discussion with Ajit Sivaram and Rumi Mallick on how volunteering as a structured citizenship program can be made more impactful and meaningful. The discussion aims to be a practitioner's guide to creating a roadmap for companies re-looking at their corporate volunteering programs.
Q: What would help organizations maximize the impact of their volunteering programs?
A: Integrating technology was highlighted as the top priority, enabling efficient volunteer management, scaling programs, and tracking participation. Strategic partnerships enhance program relevance and reach, while internal engagement and identifying meaningful causes further strengthen volunteer impact. Cause selection varies depending on organizational priorities—from tree planting to broader initiatives like climate action.
Q: How can the impact of volunteering programs be measured effectively?
A: A life-cycle approach works best: start by verifying community needs, track volunteer inputs and activities, and assess tangible benefits for NGOs or communities. Reliable platforms help measure hours and outcomes, while pulse surveys capture volunteer satisfaction. Metrics should be simple, realistic, and meaningful—e.g., education programs can measure student attendance, engagement, and confidence rather than immediate academic outcomes. Long-term evaluation over six to twelve months is recommended.
Q: Do corporates have budgets for non-CSR activities like wall painting or other volunteering projects?
A: Securing budgets can be challenging but is essential for engagement and retention. Some costs, like materials or logistics, can be integrated into CSR budgets, while others (travel, accommodations) may require separate funding. Volunteering should be positioned as an organization-wide initiative that enhances employee belonging and satisfaction.
Q: Are corporates willing to fund volunteering in remote areas where pro bono participation isn’t feasible?
A: Companies often focus on offices near project locations and combine in-person with virtual engagement. Technology enables remote mentoring or support. Volunteers sometimes contribute personally to cover travel, complementing corporate support. Skills-based and strategic volunteering also provides meaningful engagement regardless of location.
Q: How can volunteering programs be sustained if the company has no CSR budget?
A: Minimal organizational support for logistics is important for continuity. While self-funded volunteering is possible, sustainability depends on embedding a culture of volunteering and providing some financial or resource support.
Q: What is the overall benefit of volunteering for both the community and employees?
A: Volunteering delivers dual impact: communities receive skills, support, and resources, while employees gain purpose, satisfaction, and a sense of belonging. Successful programs rely on technology, realistic metrics, strategic partnerships, organizational backing, and volunteer dedication.
