Research shows that social impact is a top success factor for annual business performance, according to recent findings published in the Wall Street Journal. In today’s business environment, social impact is becoming even more crucial in fostering healthy and successful working environments as employees seek ways to find purpose and meaning in their vocations.
When my two sons were younger, most of my volunteerism happened at their school or through things that were connected to their activities. As they are getting older, I’ve been able to branch out and connect in a deeper way. In 2025, I’ll take on a new role as board chair for South Hills Interfaith Mission (SHIM), a non-profit in my community that works every day to mobilize community resources and implement sustainable programs that compassionately help our neighbors meet basic needs, achieve self-sufficiency and build community. It’s exciting to take the years of experience I have in my professional role and bring that to an organization that is making a tremendous impact in the lives of so many people.
As the leader of Communications at NOVA Chemicals, I have a personal mission to ensure that we have meaningful ways for our employees to give back to our communities, especially through our volunteer programs. From community and shoreline cleanups to lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed most, our NOVA employees are always eager to step in.
Earlier this year, NOVA introduced an Enhanced Volunteer Program that expands the scope of our community engagement efforts and offers employees a variety of ways to volunteer their time to initiatives that are most meaningful to them. The enhanced program has enabled some creativity and personal passions to shine through as employees planned and shared their favorite causes with colleagues while rolling up their sleeves to do some good.
These types of initiatives not only reflect our company’s commitment to connecting with communities and caring for the environment, but they are also an important way for our employees to connect under a common cause for good. Forbes notes a 2022 research study that found “companies see a 52 percent lower turnover among newer employees when they participate in purpose programs.”
As we approach Giving Tuesday on December 3, I’d encourage you to join in some program to give back to your community whether it is some of your time, a donation, or the power of your voice. We all have the opportunity as individuals, employees, and companies to make a social impact.