Just as Martin Luther King Jr. believed in service, so did Points of Light founder President George H. W. Bush. Once saying, “Any definition of a successful life must include serving others,” President Bush recognized the importance of this day when he signed the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday Commission Extension Act in 1989. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating MLK Day as a national day of service.

Since then, each year on MLK Day, Points of Light calls together its community of changemakers to reflect on gains won during the Civil Rights Movement and to address contemporary issues facing our nation through acts of volunteer service.

ways you can get involved on Jan. 15, 2024 For a day on, not a day off

Volunteer

Visit Points of Light’s Engage platform to find MLK Day volunteer opportunities in your community. You can also create your own project using one of our DIY toolkits. Many of the Points of Light Global Network affiliates are hosting volunteer events for MLK Day. You can search our network to find opportunities near you.

Host a Sunday Supper

Inspired by Dr. King’s vision that people of diverse backgrounds would come together to discuss injustices of the day and create a plan for action, “Sunday Suppers” call people to engage in dialogue about issues affecting their communities. Conversations, a form of civic engagement, about pressing topics are important because they are often the starting point for change.

Get Kids Involved

Volunteering as a family is a special opportunity to bond, create memories and help others. Include kids in your MLK Day service plans. Volunteer together and use this time to lead by example around what MLK’s legacy means for the United States today.

Honor a Volunteer

Recognize volunteer leaders with the MLK Drum Majors for Service Award. This special President’s Volunteer Service Award honors volunteers who perform extraordinary everyday acts of service. You can also nominate a deserving volunteer for the Daily Point of Light Award.

As the first national day of service in 2024, let MLK Day be your start to a year-long commitment to service. Leading a life of volunteerism has been shown to have benefits not only to the community, but also to the volunteer. And there are so many opportunities to get involved.

Join us on MLK Day to jumpstart a year of volunteerism and service to make our communities, and the world, a better place for all.

The post Make Martin Luther King Day a Day “On,” Not a Day Off appeared first on Points of Light.

Points of Light’s Civic Circle^® is a framework to help you realize all the ways you can lead, lend support and take action. Often, people think that civic engagement needs to look one specific way – when the truth is that there are multiple ways to get involved, no matter where you are or how much time you have.

This year, mark your calendar for Jan. 15 and make a plan to get involved.

Ways to Live out MLK’s Legacy

Volunteer

Make MLK Day “a Day On, not a Day Off” by finding a volunteer opportunity. Volunteering is always needed, but on dedicated days like MLK Day, there are typically additional opportunities available. Community centers, schools, places of worship, food pantries and shelters near you may be hosting extra projects. You can search Points of Light’s Engage to find virtual and in-person volunteer opportunities, or find a Points of Light Global Network affiliate near you to partner with.

Listen and Learn

A big part of advocating for civil and human rights is listening and learning. When we hear from others about their perspectives and the life experiences that have shaped their identities, we can better honor who they are and where they come from. Plus, we have the opportunity to expand our own perspectives. You can also learn how to support and advocate for people of color through Points of Light’s Listen. Learn. Act to End Racism initiative, in partnership with Morehouse College.

Vote

Dr. King knew how critical it was for every citizen in the U.S. to have their voice heard through voting, coining the phrase “Give Us the Ballot” in his 1957 speech. The United States national elections will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, but that doesn’t mean it’s too soon to get involved. Voting is a crucial part of driving change at the systemic level. Start by making sure you’re registered to vote, then educate yourself on the issues and the people on this year’s ballot. You may also dedicate time to protecting democracy by advocating for voting rights for all Americans. Then, don’t forget to mark your calendar to ensure you’re ready to vote in November.

Purchase Power

Using your purchase power is one way to support communities – like BIPOC business owners – or causes you care about. By doing your homework, you can find out which brands that you might buy from regularly are supporting communities of color and advocating for human rights. This may be reflected in their donations, certain projects or campaigns they lead, how they lift up their BIPOC employees and more. Research before you buy, so you can ensure your hard-earned money is going toward the causes you care about.

Work

You might find ways to champion human and civil rights through your work, even if your job isn’t directly related to these missions. For example, you could organize a group of coworkers who are interested in volunteering on MLK Days. Or you might do a project featuring the voices of those who have faced discrimination in the community and screen it after work or on a lunch break to help educate and start a conversation within your workplace. If you don’t receive MLK Day off from work, you can also advocate with your employer to make this a day of service for employees.

Voice

Dr. King was a powerful voice in the Black community and used his influence to organize rallies and protests, petition for change and speak with public officials when he could. You can use your voice to advocate for change in your own spheres of influence. This can start around the dinner table, presenting a topic you’re passionate about and leaving space for respectful debate and sharing perspectives. You might find a specific issue you want to champion and create an online petition for it. Or maybe you join an organized rally to make your voice heard. There are plenty of ways to use your words to communicate what you care about and pave the way for change.

Donate

If you want to use your resources to advocate for human and civil rights, you can also donate to a cause or organization. By donating financially, you can let an organization allocate funds where they’re most needed. But even donating goods like breakfast foods, baby products, old cell phones and new or gently used books can greatly impact an individual or group of people who may not have access to these items. Just check with the organization you’re donating to first, to ensure that you’re contributing items they need and can use.

Service

If you want to follow Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s footsteps in dedicating your life to championing human and civil rights, you might consider making a vocation out of it. Through a public service position, you can create a ripple effect of change on your school board, in your local government or even internationally.

Social Entrepreneurship

If you’re interested in devoting your work to making an impact in the business or for-profit sector, you might consider social entrepreneurship. Social entrepreneurs find innovative solutions to the world’s toughest issues, like inequality and racism. These individuals identify a need that hasn’t yet been met by the existing traditional structures, which takes a lot of time, creativity and grit but can also be a supremely impactful career option.

The post 9 Ways to Live Out MLK’s Legacy in Your Own Life appeared first on Points of Light.

During the last quarter-century, the MLK Day of Service has grown, and its impact increased as more Americans embraced the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving communities. Here’s how to make a difference on MLK day, taking place on January 15, 2024, regardless of whether you’re working solo, as part of a corporate team or with a nonprofit organization.

Things Companies Can Do for MLK Day

Companies have a unique opportunity to participate in MLK Day, both by encouraging employee engagement and addressing racism and bias in the workplace. First, be sure to put together an internal communications plan that encourages employees to get involved and notifies them leading up to the day. You may also opt to organize a corporate volunteer project for your team or give paid volunteer time off for this day. If you need help with your employee engagement efforts, Points of Light’s Corporate Services & Solutions can be a great resource.

If you haven’t hosted training or education on racism, bias and inequalities in the workplace, make an effort to implement this, starting with MLK Day. Acknowledge that discrimination still exists and open the floor for your employees to discuss diversity in the workplace. Start off with this Listen. Learn. Act to End Racism conversation featuring Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center, that also offers additional resources for deeper learning.

Other ways you can help employees engage in this work might be centered around an educational opportunity, like a “Lunch and Learn,” to explore microaggressions, biases in communication and more. It could be a meeting that allows for challenging conversations about identity. Or it could be an all-staff email that recognizes the existence of discrimination and reiterates an open-door policy to address these issues with management.

How Nonprofits Can Support MLK Day

Nonprofit organizations can utilize MLK Day to spark engagement among employees and volunteers alike in a variety of ways. Your nonprofit might run a donation drive, host an event at a food bank or shelter, or run a campaign for donors to give to a specific cause related to dismantling racism and discrimination.

If your organization hasn’t yet, consider adding your volunteer opportunities to Points of Light Engage, the world’s largest digital volunteer network. This collection of volunteer opportunities from sites across the web provides the most comprehensive database of volunteer opportunities in the world. Additionally, you can browse the Points of Light Global Network to find a nonprofit partner near you to see what events they have planned for this day.

Ways for Individuals to Make an Impact on MLK Day

Volunteering is an effective way to create the change you wish to see in your community. Head over to Points of Light Engage to get started. It’s a place that connects individuals to hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities — in person and virtual — all just waiting for the right volunteer to step up.

You can also check out Points of Light’s collection of DIY projects to find a project you can complete in your spare time. And don’t forget that even the smallest act of service, like caring for a sick loved one or picking up your elderly neighbor’s mail, counts as civic engagement and can create a ripple of positive impact in your own backyard and beyond.

The post 3 Ways You Can Make a Difference on MLK Day of Service appeared first on Points of Light.

Five Recommendations for Attending Conference

1. Sit by new people.

Whether you have been going for years or are a first timer, I challenge you to sit by a variety of individuals throughout the sessions you attend. Connect with them and ask what they are most excited about, the best session they attended or what they are inspired to do differently. If you want to learn more about them and their work, connect through the conference app or via LinkedIn.

2. Explore the vendors and connect with their customers.

To operate as a Service Enterprise and strategically leverage volunteers to meet community needs you must be efficient and effective at Recruitment & Cultivation, Onboarding, Training, Communication and Tracking & Evaluation. Many vendors can help you work smarter, not harder. Don’t just take the vendor’s word — often, you can connect with some of their customers to get firsthand reviews while at conference.

3. Listen for ways to gain buy-in and examples of LEADERSHIP INVOLVEMENT.

No one person will succeed doing volunteer and community engagement alone. A theme I have seen over the last decade is the most successful and impactful efforts have the support of the whole organization, not just the volunteer engagement staff. Learn from others’ successes and maybe even their failures.

4. Say thanks to the corporate partners.

At lunches and in the hallways, keep an eye out for corporate partners that represent your local companies. Make sure to share success stories of local efforts. If you don’t know any, I encourage you to ask how they would describe their ideal nonprofit partner or what they look for in a partnership. It is a great conversation starter and will help you connect with corporate partners in the future.

5. Bring it back.

Make sure to bring back what you learned and share it, not just with the volunteer engagement team but with a cross-functional team that will help lead Growth & Change at your organization. Connect with the presenters and let them know you are going to share what you learned. Sometimes they may even be able to help you.

6. BONUS! Stop by the AL!VE Booth.

Learn more about Service Enterprise, connect with volunteer engagement professionals across the country and get a ribbon to add to your badge.

I look forward to seeing you at the 2024 Points of Light Conference. Heck, maybe I’ll even get to sit by you. Until then, if y’all want to learn more about Service Enterprise and how AL!VE can help you leverage volunteers and their skills to meet community needs, connect with me on LinkedIn or at ServiceEnterprise@volunteeralive.org.

The post Leverage the Points of Light Conference to Help Strengthen Your Strategic Volunteer Engagement appeared first on Points of Light.

HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE TOP 10 Nonprofit Conferences YOU SHOULD ATTEND IN 2024

1. ELEVATE 2024, NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE’S 10TH ANNUAL VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Scheduled from February 27–29, 2024, Elevate 2024 is a virtual conference designed to spark innovative thinking and action in today’s complex social and political landscape. It’s an essential platform for those in the nonprofit sector, focusing on contemporary fundraising challenges and providing tools for building resilient organizations. This conference is perfect for professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of nonprofit management and social change.

2. SXSW

The SXSW event was created with the belief that individuals have the power to initiate real change in their own lives and the lives of others. Scheduled for March 8–16, 2024, in Austin, SXSW24 is the epicenter of discovery, learning, professional development and networking with creatives from around the world.

3. NONPROFIT TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE (NTC)

The Nonprofit Technology Conference, set for March 13–15, 2024, in Portland, Ore., (or available virtually) is an annual event that attracts individuals who are eager to use technology for social good. It covers a wide range of topics related to nonprofit technology, including best practices, innovations and equitable technology use. This conference is ideal for those looking to harness technology to enhance their nonprofit’s reach and impact, offering an environment for learning, sharing and networking with peers and industry leaders.

4. AFP ICON

AFP ICON, happening from April 7–9, 2024, in Toronto, is a multi-day conference that combines fundraising training with endless networking opportunities and insights from expert speakers. It’s a gathering of fundraising professionals from various backgrounds, offering a rich blend of educational sessions, workshops and discussions. This conference is a great opportunity for fundraising professionals to learn new strategies, connect with peers and get inspired by leaders in the field.

5. COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS CONFERENCE

Taking place in Chicago from May 6–9, 2024, Building Together is an immersive leadership experience for philanthropic leaders who want to develop the strategies and skills to productively navigate differences in service of the greater good. This event is designed for philanthropic leaders willing and ready to drive change within their organizations and the sector. The Building Together experience will challenge you to learn, process, and practice in real time. You won’t just be listening to speakers. Each moment at Building Together has been created to recognize our shared humanity and help you unlock the skills to bridge divides.

6. GRANTMAKERS FOR EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATIONS

Set for June 3–5, 2024, in Los Angeles, this conference is an opportunity for grantmakers and practitioners to explore and discuss equity-centered and community-driven grantmaking practices. It’s a forum for sharing ideas and experiences, with a focus on supporting an inclusive society where all nonprofit organizations can thrive. Attendees will have the chance to engage with thought leaders in the field and explore new ways to make their grantmaking more effective and impactful.

7. SOCIAL INNOVATION SUMMIT

The Social Innovation Summit, June 4–5 in Chicago, is a destination for thinkers, doers, and leaders who are disrupting old models and scaling what works. The Flagship Summit welcomes more than 1,250 purpose-driven business leaders, funders, community stakeholders and impact entrepreneurs around one simple yet audacious goal: to catalyze inspired partnerships.

8. NONPROFIT INNOVATION AND OPTIMIZATION SUMMIT (NIO)

Happening on September 18–19, 2024, in Indianapolis, the NIO Summit is centered around the theme of new fundraising ideas, aptly titled “Generosity Jones and the Holy Grail of Fundraising.” This summit is a goldmine for those seeking innovative and effective fundraising strategies. It provides a platform for sharing cutting-edge ideas and practices, with a focus on how nonprofits can innovate to improve their fundraising efforts.

9. SOCAP: NONPROFIT STORYTELLING CONFERENCE

This conference, which will take place at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort in New Mexico November 11–13, 2024, focuses on the power of storytelling in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. It’s an event that delves into identifying and crafting compelling stories to support fundraising and marketing efforts. The conference is ideal for nonprofit professionals seeking to harness the power

10. THE POINTS OF LIGHT CONFERENCE

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Points of Light Conference, happening in Houston from June 11–14, 2024. This annual gathering is a nexus for the collaboration of businesses, nonprofits and engaged citizens. In the upcoming conference, expect a rich agenda featuring more than 70 workshops designed to educate and inspire, along with compelling leadership conversations and numerous networking chances. It’s a unique opportunity to draw upon diverse experiences and insights to create meaningful change across communities and sectors. Be there to be part of this transformative journey.

The post Top 10 2024 Nonprofit Conferences appeared first on Points of Light.

For those considering mobilizing employees in service to their communities, check out Points of Light’s extensive database of volunteer opportunities, Engage, or connect with our global affiliate network. Many network members like LA Works, Jersey Cares, and HandsOn Atlanta are curating or planning virtual and in-person projects that will take place on or around the King Day of Service. We also have a collection of youth-oriented project guides for those who want to share DIY instructions with employees who enjoy creating at-home impact while working alongside family and friends.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more companies interested in building awareness and empathy among their employees. Many companies have engaged their workforces in learning about complex issues like equity and human rights, and there could not be a more fitting tribute to Dr. King’s legacy to do more of the same!

• Use MLK Day as a starting point for a 21-day Listen & Learn challenge similar to AT&T or share the resources we’ve curated as part of our Listen.Learn.Act to End Racism conversations in partnership with Morehouse College. Recordings of past conversations are available here. Consider extending employee learning and listening sessions into February, which is traditionally Black History Month in the U.S., or further into Women’s History Month in March. Continue these educational efforts throughout the rest of the year.
• Offer employees the chance to learn more about the human experience and how to address biases through the free online course, To Be Welcoming, provided through the Starbucks Global Academy.
• Deepen employees’ understanding of their own civic superpowers by sharing our Civic Life Today digital magazines. Each magazine covers one action an individual can take to make a positive impact in their community while also exploring how privilege plays a role. Employees will find stories, inspiration and additional resources to have meaningful conversations about civic life with family members.
• Encourage employees to host conversations around the virtual dinner table with family, friends and neighbors. Enlist the help of an organization like Inclusivv or review our Courageous Conversation project guide for ideas. Engaging in dialogue with those who have diverse sets of views enables bridge-building and gets us one step closer to the Beloved Community that Dr. King envisioned.

Rather than activating employees in tribute to MLK’s legacy, use the holiday as a moment to communicate progress made on the company’s commitment to racial equity in response to the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

For companies that are still on the journey of inward reflection and aligning corporate citizenship work with DEI strategy and infrastructure, review and share the resources created by the Corporate Racial Equity Alliance, a joint initiative of JUST Capital, FSG and PolicyLink.

They’ve developed a CEO Blueprint for Racial Equity that aims to help companies move from commitment to action. For a more local perspective, take time to review Brookings report, “From commitments to action: How CEOs can advance racial equity in their regional economies,” which offers the C-suite an actionable framework for making significant progress toward a more equitable economy, starting in their headquarters’ regions.

For those considering using the day as an opportunity to recognize and lift up employees who embody MLK’s values or amplify the good work of your nonprofit partners that strive every day to create a more just society, AmeriCorps has put together a communications toolkit that includes key messaging, press release and proclamation templates, social media graphics, logos and suggested hashtags. You might also consider using this annual milestone to nominate an employee volunteer or volunteer leader as a Daily Point of Light or remind employees about the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Lastly, if you happen to have concentrations of employees in the metro Atlanta area, the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr., you’ll find some amazing activities taking place either on or around Jan. 15, 2024, hosted by the King Center.

The post 20 Links to Help You Plan for the 2024 MLK Day of Service appeared first on Points of Light.

A Legacy of Service and Impact

Three decades ago, President Bill Clinton signs the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, creating AmeriCorps. A remarkable journey began with more than 20,000 Americans pledging to serve their country. These pioneers of service ventured into more than 1,000 communities, laying the groundwork for what would become an enduring legacy of community investment. This initial step symbolized a commitment to unity, resilience and the power of collective action.

Since 1994, more than 900,000 Americans have served as AmeriCorps members, contributing more than 1.2 billion hours of service to their communities across the U.S. And when considering the value of a volunteer hour is $31.80, that accounts for more than $38 billion in service hours given across every state and U.S. territory. Their work has spanned diverse fields, from education and health to environmental stewardship and disaster response, embodying a holistic approach to community development and philanthropy.

Responding to Moments of Crisis

AmeriCorps’ resilience and adaptability have been most evident in times of national crises. When the country faced the aftermath of September 11th terrorist attacks, the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, AmeriCorps members were there, leading recovery and rebuilding efforts. Their response in these pivotal moments underscores the essence of their mission – to answer America’s call with action and compassion.

At Points of Light, our partnership with AmeriCorps has been integral to fostering a culture of service and volunteerism. By collaborating on various initiatives, we have amplified the impact of community service, inspiring others to join in this noble cause. Our combined efforts underscore the belief that every individual has the power to make a difference, and together, we can illuminate the path to a brighter, more inclusive future.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Service

As AmeriCorps celebrates this 30-year milestone, we look to the future with optimism and determination. The foundation laid by those first 20,000 members has grown into a robust, diverse and impactful network. Moving forward, their focus remains on deepening community investment, fostering inclusive philanthropy and nurturing the next generation of service leaders.

AmeriCorps’ achievements reflect a collective commitment to bettering our nation, one community at a time. Points of Light celebrates AmeriCorps’ past accomplishments, and we look forward to the continued impact of this remarkable organization. Together, we reaffirm our pledge to get things done for America, turning every moment of impact into a movement of national service. AmeriCorps’ 30-year journey is a testament to the enduring power of service and community. And it’s just the beginning.

Learn more about how to join AmeriCorps.

The post Celebrating the AmeriCorps Journey: 30 Years of Community Investment and Philanthropy appeared first on Points of Light.

Here are our picks for the top 10 CSR events you should attend in 2024

1. GLOBAL CSR & ESG SUMMIT & AWARDS™

The 16th Annual Global CSR & ESG Summit & Awards™, a leading platform in sustainability thought leadership, is set for February 28, 2024, at the Novotel Hanoi, Thai Ha, Vietnam. This year, it coincides with the 4th Annual Global Food Security & Sustainability Summit, highlighting the synergy between ESG and food security. The event will gather thought leaders and hundreds of professionals in CSR and ESG, offering a rich experience with the added highlight of the Global CSR & ESG Awards™. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to visit notable sustainability projects in Vietnam, making this a comprehensive and insightful event for those at the forefront of sustainability and corporate responsibility.

2. ANNUAL DIVERSITY & LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Celebrating its 20th year, the Annual Diversity & Leadership Conference is set to offer a fully virtual experience with a lineup of globally recognized speakers. These experts will share their insights on integrating diverse aspects of inclusion and diversity, providing valuable takeaways for both personal and professional development. This year, the event begins with the National DEI Training Week from March 18–21, 2024, focusing on deepening understanding and skills in diversity, equity and inclusion. The conference continues with its second segment from April 15–18, featuring a series of panel discussions and interactive workshops designed to foster learning and engagement in these critical areas.

3. SXSW

Chances are, you’re already familiar with the SXSW Conference, an annual gathering that brings together a worldwide community of digital innovators to explore pioneering concepts, ignite new passions and connect with peers who have a keen interest in future-oriented experiences. The upcoming conference, scheduled for March 8–15, 2024, promises an array of sessions covering key advancements in technology, film, culture and music, offering a diverse and enriching experience for all attendees.

4. ACCP ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The corporate social impact arena is undergoing a significant transformation. As expectations rise, the roles, strategies and language of the field are adapting to new norms, with purpose becoming increasingly integrated into every aspect of business operations. From September 8–10, 2024, in San Diego, this is an opportunity to engage with fellow professionals, establish fresh connections and discover how to turn emerging trends into actionable strategies. This is your chance to pave the way for your company to be a leader in this essential period of change.

5. RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Be a part of the esteemed Responsible Business 2024 Annual Conference, taking place from November 18–21, 2024, in San Jose. This premier annual event offers a unique and enriching experience for its participants, encompassing members of the RBA and its Initiatives, as well as representatives from non-member companies. The conference also welcomes a diverse array of attendees including industry experts, government officials, members of intergovernmental organizations, civil society and other influential stakeholders.

6. THE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP CONFERENCE

For over two decades, the International Corporate Citizenship Conference, organized by the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship (BCCCC), has been a pivotal gathering for CSR professionals from around the world. This event, set to take place in Memphis from April 28–30, 2024, offers a unique platform for attendees to learn, exchange ideas and build networks with like-minded peers. This year’s conference focuses on redefining resilience, providing valuable insights and strategies to enhance your organization’s CSR initiatives.

7. ENGAGE FOR GOOD CONFERENCE

Scheduled for May 14–16, 2024, in Minneapolis, this event is a prime gathering spot for those driving change, encompassing both business and nonprofit leaders in the corporate social impact realm. Attendees will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding and expand their networks. The focus will be on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), employee engagement, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and navigating a complex economic landscape. The event will feature insightful talks from prominent speakers and breakout sessions designed for rich exchanges of ideas and strategies.

8. REUTERS RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS EUROPE SUMMIT

Reuters is set to host another edition of its Responsible Business Europe Summit, scheduled for June 11–12, 2024. This key event, taking place in London, is specifically designed for leaders in the business and finance sectors. With a lineup of more than 80 chief executives and top executives, the summit aims to guide participants through the challenges of the present while revealing the vast potential of businesses focused on long-term, profitable and sustainable decision-making.

9. SUSTAINABLE BRANDS

Be a part of the transformative journey with Sustainable Brands’ 2024 Brand-Led Culture Change event in Minneapolis from May 8–10, 2024. This gathering is a melting pot for innovative thinkers and brand pioneers focused on leveraging brand influence to drive positive behavioral and cultural shifts. Learn how top global brands are scaling their influence to inspire consumers towards championing a regenerative future.

10. THE POINTS OF LIGHT CONFERENCE

Don’t miss out on the 2024 Points of Light Conference. Set to take place in Houston, from June 11–14, this annual event serves as a dynamic convergence point for businesses, the nonprofit sector and individuals from diverse walks of life. This year’s conference promises over 50 educational workshops, engaging leadership dialogues and numerous networking opportunities. It’s an ideal platform for leveraging our distinct backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints to make a significant impact in the world. Be a part of this change-driving experience.

The post The Top 10 CSR Events to Attend This Year appeared first on Points of Light.

Every year, on November 11, the United States and several other countries around the world come together to honor and reflect upon the service of our veterans. It is a day to pause, reflect and express our deepest appreciation for the bravery and dedication of these individuals. One of the most powerful aspects of Veterans Day is that it is not limited to a specific branch of the military or a particular conflict. It is a day to honor all who have served. It’s an opportunity to recognize the sacrifice made by the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, as well as the countless support personnel and their families.

So, what does it mean to be a veteran? It could mean that you served in a time of war or in a time of peace. It could mean that you served for two years or more than 30. Why is it that one of the most valuable things about being a veteran is comradery and kinship? I feel it with all those who have served. Which is why as I reflect on Veterans Day, after spending another year at the NYC Veterans Day parade, I can’t help but feel so honored that my job is to support my fellow veterans and the whole military community through my role as Head of Military and Veteran Affairs at Fiserv.

I believe that providing support and assistance to those who have served is a great way to give back to the military community. So, coming from someone who has worked in this space for almost a decade and is also an Army Veteran, the following are a few of my suggestions to those who have served:

Start with One

There are so many resources and service organizations out there, it can be daunting to try to navigate them all. So, start with one. Veteran service organizations have become more and more connected over the years and if the one you start with isn’t the right one, I know they will send you in the right direction. It may take some time but keep a list of those connections along the way, you never know when you might need them or could be helpful to them in return.

Ask For Help

Let’s face it, it has been shown time and again that veterans are not good at asking for help. Studies have found that seeking help can be associated with stigma, particularly among veterans. Furthermore, these studies reveal that while many veterans express concerns about being negatively judged if they were to seek mental health treatment, they hesitate to judge a fellow veteran negatively in a similar situation. This highlights the complex dynamics of help-seeking in the military community. Break the cycle! Ask for help! If you think about it, being a military veteran means you are part of one of the biggest alumni groups in the world. So, reach out; the worst that can happen is that you get no response or someone says no. However, the likelihood if you reach out to someone in the military community or who supports the military community is that, if they can’t assist, they will point you in the right direction.

Leverage Your Network

Networking is a powerful tool. I know you may feel like this is said too much, but your network truly is your net worth. I cannot tell you the number of times I have leaned on my network to provide support both personally and professionally. The great thing about those of us who have served is we are always willing to pick back up where we left off. So, call your old battle buddy, reach out to a fellow service member on LinkedIn, go to military-related events in your local area, seek out virtual events that will be helpful. Figure out a way to engage and expand your network in a way that works for you.

Your Health is Your Wealth

How many of us completely stopped working out when we got out of the military? Or said, “I’m going to take a break from it” and then never fully got back into it? I bet quite a few. Yes, there are those who continue to maintain a strict schedule, but there are others who drift away from it when it is no longer required and planned for us. Or maybe life just got in the way. Physical activity is often the thing that gets taken off the schedule when things get too busy. So, my best advice is make taking care of yourself a priority and find the things that you enjoy that also keep you active, both mind and body.

Your Work is Important

What you choose to do professionally after service is important. You spend a huge chunk of time at your job, so it is smart to take some time to determine where you fit. There are a ton of resources out there to help you find the best company for you. Notice that I said “the best company” not the best job. Yes, the organizations that provide employment assistance will also help you with identifying jobs but in my opinion, it is more important to find a company that fits with your values, morals, lifestyle. Once you start working at that company, then there will be opportunities for internal mobility if the first job you take is not the best fit.

None of this advice is earth shattering or new, but it may be a helpful reminder. On that note, remember that no matter how long it has been since you transitioned from active duty, it is all part of the journey, and it’s okay to seek help and advice along the way. Your military experience has equipped you with valuable qualities that can contribute to your success in the civilian world. It is my belief that the best thing that we can do for our fellow brethren in the military community is lift them up, meet them where they are, and give them the support they need when they need it. As my Navy friends say, “A rising tide lifts all ships.” My challenge to you, whether you are a veteran or not, is to find some time to help a veteran this holiday season.

For more information on ways Fiserv supports the Veteran and military community, please visit the Fiserv Salutes web page.

The post Honoring Those Who Served: Reflecting on Veterans Day appeared first on Points of Light.

The following has been edited for brevity and clarity.

How and why does Fiserv invest in and support small businesses?

A: Fiserv views and supports small business as a vital engine to our communities both locally and globally. In order for us to provide best-in-class support for businesses from Wall Street to Main Street, Fiserv offers breadth and depth for businesses with Clover technology at the center of small business solutions. Small businesses are especially important to Fiserv, because we believe small businesses are the heartbeat of communities.

How does this work support Fiserv’s CSR strategy?

A: Fiserv’s Back2Business program is part of our commitment to be a platform for good while creating meaningful and positive impact in communities through commerce and connectivity. We have committed to investing $50 million into the small business ecosystem, connecting businesses to vital education, coaching, and capital.

How has Fiserv’s support for small businesses helped advance DEI initiatives and priorities?

A: To date, there have been nearly 1,800 small, diverse businesses that have received a Fiserv Back2Business grant. We’ve hosted pop-ups with over 90 small, diverse businesses purchasing their products and services in partnership with our employee resource group programming and events. We have also invested more than $10M in community partners who are working directly with and for small businesses. Through collaboration with community partners, we can expand our reach and create sustainable, scalable inclusive change. Additionally, we are always willing to share best practices with other organizations to ensure that we are all lifting each other up and getting better together.

How has Fiserv incorporated this work into their business strategy to “do well by doing good”?

A: We are intentional about building inclusivity and access into commerce. In addition to grants, we have expanded the B2B program to include pop-ups, where we purchase products and services from small, diverse businesses for a variety of events and functions. By doing this, we support their business holistically. And we are working with our Minority Deposit Institution (MDI) clients to addresses challenges for minority-owned banks by expanding their access capital and technology capabilities, again supporting the entire small, diverse business ecosystem and infrastructure holistically.

How have you engaged employees and ERGs as part of your work supporting small businesses?

A: All our team members have the opportunity to engage and be immersed into our small business experiences through grant events, pop-ups, marketplaces, through corporate matching campaigns, collaborative community partnerships and through internal and external meetings where we feature Back2Business partners’ products. Our ERGs host programming that incorporates small businesses though Learn and Engage sessions, virtual marketplaces, and Back2Business pop-ups. This year, for example, our Hispanic and Latino Leadership Council, Juntos, purchased t-shirts from Triple Nikel, a Veteran and Hispanic-owned business to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month while Soar, our Black Associate Council, purchased puzzles from Dope Puzzle Pieces, a Black-owned, woman-owned business to help celebrate Black Business Month in August.

What metrics and stories illustrate the impact and success of your programs?

A: We intentionally expand small business opportunities, access, and exposure through client engagement and community investment. Clover, our small business operating system, enables a fully digital ecosystem of integrated solutions with a portfolio of value-added services, open architecture, and 3rd party integrations. External and internal metrics are provided around the number of grant recipients, small business pop-ups, newsletters, marketplaces, and through surveying grant recipients. In our 2023 survey of grant recipients, we found that 100% of the grant recipients stated the grant positively helped their business and 96% are still in business.

What advice would you give to other companies that may be interested in engaging small businesses in their network as part of their CSR strategy?

A: Organizations that are considering ways to foster a culture of inclusion and create a sense of belonging for their employees should explore all the ways their team members can get involved – through ERGs, through supply chain, through clients, and through the communities they live in. The benefits of incorporating a small business engagement strategy into a CSR approach includes market expansion, employee engagement, client engagement and loyalty, increases employee engagement, improves brand imaging, attracts investment opportunities, and makes a difference for bottom-line financials. Strong community partners, like Points of Light, are crucial to building an expansive and inclusive network of support and empowerment for the entire small business ecosystem.

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