United Way of the Alberta Capital Region invites businesses to join forces in creating positive change through workplace campaigns. These campaigns enhance employee engagement and foster a shared sense of community, benefiting both local organizations and the broader community.
In today’s world, businesses recognize that long-term sustainability extends beyond profit margins. There is a growing acknowledgment of the importance of contributing to the community as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Companies are increasingly aligning their operations with employee values and social purpose, understanding that a thriving community creates a thriving business environment.
United Way offers businesses a platform to drive social impact in their community, empowering companies to address local challenges and build stronger, more resilient communities. Amber Petersen, a team member at United Way, emphasizes that these campaigns go beyond fulfilling CSR goals.
“Campaigns also play a pivotal role in uniting employees, strengthening teams and nurturing an organization’s shared sense of community,” she says.
Workplace campaigns involve annual, employer-sponsored programs combining employee giving, volunteering and learning opportunities. These campaigns unite employees and stakeholders from various sectors around a shared cause: building a strong and vibrant community where no one is left behind.
Primoris Services Canada, a newcomer to United Way’s Workplace Campaigns, began their journey after attending a golf tournament hosted by Enbridge, a long-term champion of United Way Workplace Campaigns. They, along with dedicated companies such as PCL Construction and EPCOR, have consistently demonstrated the power of collective action. Inspired by Enbridge’s impactful initiatives, Primoris has integrated United Way into their work culture, hosting monthly charity events and formal campaigns.
Chris Woods, vice president of field operations, noted the transformative effect on their organization.
“Our participation in an annual campaign allows Primoris to educate and inspire changemakers within our business and community at large,” he says.
Funds raised through United Way Workplace Campaigns stay 100 per cent local, supporting high-need and high-impact areas. These contributions provide responsive solutions to immediate needs in crisis situations and long-term systemic solutions for lasting change.
Beyond fundraising, Workplace Campaigns enhance employee engagement, elevate job satisfaction and boost a sense of purpose within organizations. Employees build bonds, create new networks and refine their leadership skills while embarking on a shared mission.
Petersen highlights the importance of in-person engagement opportunities in an increasingly digital age.
“We have more technology than ever to keep us connected, yet people feel more isolated than ever,” she says.
Primoris’s workplace campaign has notably shifted the company’s culture.
Woods emphasizes, “Our partnership with United Way enhanced our employee experience through a common purpose that extends well beyond traditional business measures.”
United Way supports each campaign’s delivery, offering mentorship, experiential learning and customized immersive experiences to meet social impact goals, as healthy communities are essential for healthy businesses.
