10 Must-Haves for a Corporate Volunteer Day
If you’d like a Team Volunteering day with Leaves Breathe after reading the below, then get in touch here.
If you have any thoughts on what we can do better, please do reach out to Matt@LeavesBreathe.co.uk.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives are becoming increasingly popular, with companies recognising the value of giving back to our local communities. Leaves Breathe offers an impactful CSR activity through corporate volunteer gardening days. Together, we not only improve local environments but also enhance team bonding and employee morale.
Here, we outline the top 10 most important aspects of organising a successful corporate gardening event in London.
1. Clear Objectives
The first element of a successful corporate volunteer gardening event is having clear objectives. Define what you hope to achieve with the day. Whether it’s enhancing a local park or supporting a community garden, clear goals guide our planning and execution, ensuring everyone knows what they’re working towards.
2. Suitable Location
Choosing the right location is critical. London offers many potential sites for volunteer gardening, from local parks to community gardens. We select sites that match our community-oriented objectives and that can accommodate your group size. For a breakdown into the 20 sites that we are partnered with, click here.
3. Planning
Detailed planning is a must-have for a smooth event. Behind the scenes, we create a timeline, assign tasks, and then communicate the plan to all participants on the day. Our team of gardening experts provide insight and support, ensuring a well-thought-out plan that allows for the day to run smoothly and for everyone to know their role.
4. Safety Measures
Safety should be a top priority. Conduct a risk assessment of the gardening site before the event and brief participants on safety protocols. Ensure that first aid kits are readily available and that there are designated first aiders among the volunteers. Clear instructions on how to use tools safely will prevent accidents and injuries.
5. Quality Tools and Supplies
Having the right tools and supplies is essential for a productive gardening day. We make sure to always have enough gardening gloves, trowels, spades, rakes, and other necessary equipment. High-quality tools not only make the work easier but also prevent injuries.
6. Skilled Supervision
Not all corporate volunteers will have gardening experience, so having skilled supervisors is crucial. These can be local gardening experts or experienced volunteers who can guide the team. They can provide demonstrations, answer questions, and ensure that the work is done correctly and safely. Our team are all trained horticulturalists, who look forward to sharing their knowledge.
7. Refreshments and Breaks
Gardening can be physically demanding, so providing refreshments and scheduled breaks is essential. Snacks and drinks often help to keep energy levels up and scheduled breaks give participants time to rest, hydrate, and socialise, making the day more enjoyable.
8. Team-Building Activities
Incorporate team-building activities to foster collaboration and camaraderie. Group tasks such as planting a flower bed together, building garden structures, or organizing a friendly competition can enhance team spirit. These activities not only make the event more fun but also strengthen workplace relationships.
9. Recognition and Rewards
Recognise and reward the efforts of your corporate volunteers. Simple gestures like a thank-you speech, certificates of participation, or small prizes for outstanding contributions can go a long way in making volunteers feel appreciated. Celebrating the day’s achievements boosts morale and encourages future participation. We have the “Golden Gloves” award ceremony to end each volunteering day. What will you win?
10. Post-Event Reflection
After the event, gather feedback from participants to understand what worked well and what could be improved. Reflecting on the day’s successes and challenges helps in planning future corporate gardening events. Share the impact of the volunteer gardening day with the entire company to inspire others and build a culture of community involvement. We offer infogrpahics and CSR/ESG reports about our volunteer days.
Organising a corporate volunteer gardening day in London requires careful planning and consideration of these ten must-haves. From setting clear objectives and choosing the right location to ensuring safety and providing quality tools, each element plays a crucial role in the success of the event. By focusing on these essentials, companies can create a rewarding experience for their employees while making a positive impact on the community. Embrace the opportunity to give back and watch as your team blossoms together in the heart of London’s vibrant community gardens.
If you’d like a Team Volunteering day with Leaves Breathe after reading the below, then get in touch here.
