Why should companies participate in a workplace campaign?
A workplace campaign is an easy way to give back to the community that can be a lot of fun. When I first took over the workplace campaign for Husco in Whitewater, I was shocked by how many people wanted to help. We started with just a campaign asking employees if they would like to donate. The next year, more and more employees suggested different activities for us to do. Now we have a silent auction that employees and vendors donate items to auction off. We have a raffle for designated front parking spots of our lot for employees to bid on (great in the winter months). There have been talks of penny wars, a cookout, and walking tacos this year as well.
What’s nice about United Way workplace campaigns is that it doesn’t have to be this huge time sinking event where you lose valuable business time. United Way asks when you are looking to have the campaign, they will even offer to help. The campaign can be formal meetings with employees or just a sheet you can hand out of leave out in the break room. Husco has had pretty good success with the meetings, which typically only take about 10-15 minutes. Who better to come talk to your workplace about what donating to United Way can do for the community than board members and local community leaders? Our United Way even has raffle prizes for first time donors or repeat donors who have increased their donation. There are several winners each year.
Every little bit helps. Donations in any form go a long way in a small community. From volunteering time and supplies, to simply a few bucks, it all helps and goes back into our local community. Not sure where to start? Check out www.volunteermain.com for opportunities to get involved. A favorite thing for my employees is that you can designate where your donation goes. I have several employees who live in different counties, and to have that option for them is very thoughtful. I also have employees who feel very strongly about certain programs and I know they appreciate being able to have all their donation goes towards that program or partner.
A workplace campaign through United Way is a stream lined process and can be as hands on or hands off as you’d like for your business. If you have any questions, reach out to us and we will gladly help answer any of your questions.
Why does Husco run/support a United Way campaign?
Husco has had a United Way campaign since before my time here. At Husco, our shared values of honesty, integrity, and respect are the foundation of how we treat our teammates and our customers — they are also central to our community outreach and philanthropic efforts. We strive to give back to the communities we are part of, on both local and global levels. These values directly align with the mission of United Way.
Matt Yonke
HR Manager, Husco
