Just Cares: Cultivating Community Through Volunteerism

September 5, 2024

In recognition of the International Day of Charity, we celebrate our teammates who have made a significant impact through their volunteer work.

Charity is a cornerstone of global well-being and community spirit, celebrated on the International Day of Charity each year. This day emphasizes the importance of giving back and highlights the effects of volunteerism on both individuals and the communities we’re part of.

A recent survey by Deloitte revealed that 91% of people feel volunteer opportunities can have a positive impact on their overall work experience and connection to their employer. This data clearly shows a call to action for organizations nationwide – employer-led volunteer opportunities can foster in-person connections and create opportunities for positive community impact.

Just Global's Commitment to Community

At Just Global, our commitment to community is a core part of who we are. As an extension of this commitment, we encourage our teammates to give back to their local communities through our Volunteer Time Off (VTO) benefit. This initiative provides teammates with three paid days off per year to volunteer for causes that are most important to them. By offering this benefit, we enable our team members to step away from their daily responsibilities and invest their time in making a positive impact, reinforcing our dedication to supporting and enriching the communities we serve.

Over the past year, several of our teammates have embraced this opportunity, contributing to significant charitable efforts. We are proud to spotlight their inspiring experiences and illustrate how their VTO has made a lasting impact on both their community and themselves.

Felippe Diaz: Making a Difference with St Vincent de Paul Society NSW

Felippe Diaz, SVP of Client Services based in Sydney, Australia, made a significant impact through his volunteer work with St Vincent de Paul Society NSW. He, alongside the some of the Sydney Just Global team, devoted a day to sorting through clothing donations at their storage facility, categorizing items to support those facing hardship and homelessness. This charity is crucial in providing emergency accommodation, clothing, and meals to those in need, especially during the cost-of-living crisis in Sydney. Felippe felt that the opportunity to volunteer provided him and the team with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to their community.

Some of the Sydney Team at the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.

It's great that Just Global allows us to take time off for charitable causes – it allows us to gain some perspective and appreciate how lucky and privileged we are."

Michael Chen: Empowering Athletes at Special Olympics Hawaii

Michael Chen, Analytics Manager based in Honolulu, Hawaii, volunteered with the Special Olympics Hawaii, driven by his personal connection to the community and his father’s health challenges. During the Games, Michael’s role involved engaging directly with athletes and their families and creating an encouraging atmosphere. Michael noted that the most rewarding aspect of his volunteer work was witnessing the athletes’ joy and pride as they achieved their goals. Michael’s overall experience strengthened his commitment to making a positive impact in his community.

Volunteering reinforced my belief that charity is about connection and showing up for each other in both challenging and joyful times."

Jake Madison: Walking for a Cure to End Alzheimer's

Jake Madison, Senior Director of Client Services based in Chicago, Illinois, spent a day volunteering with the Just Global Chicago team at the 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Jake and the team raised over $2,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Jake noted the volunteer experience highlighted the essence of teamwork and that a global marketing agency isn’t the only thing that binds them together – their shared desire to make a positive impact enhances their relationships and redefines what striving for brilliance means in and beyond the workplace.

Just Global Chicago team during the 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer's at Soldier Field.

Just Global’s VTO program made it possible for us to come together and support a cause that deeply impacts so many people. It reinforced my belief that charity is about connection, not just for ourselves but for our families and communities too."

The benefits of volunteering go beyond the workplace

Volunteering significantly enhances both physical and mental health. Research highlights that volunteer work is linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and improved overall well-being. According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering helps lower stress levels and fosters positive, relaxed feelings. Similarly, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) connects volunteering with increased confidence, a sense of purpose, and greater happiness. Lower stress not only reduces the risk of various health issues but has also been shown to lower overall mortality rates. Implementing activities that promote mental health, such as volunteerism, can lead to increased productivity, a stronger workplace culture, and a healthier workforce overall.

Making a difference, together

As we celebrate the International Day of Charity, we’re reminded of the profound impact that volunteering and giving back have on both individuals and communities. Just Global’s commitment to charity demonstrated through our VTO program, embodies our core values of cultivating relationships, being one team, and striving for brilliance. The inspiring stories of our teammates showcase the powerful effects of volunteerism. By embracing opportunities to volunteer, we not only support important causes but also enhance our well-being and foster a healthier, more productive work environment. As we reflect on these impactful stories, we will continue to champion charitable causes and make a difference together, both within and beyond our organization.

Interested in being a part of this positive change? Check out our open positions and apply today.

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