Arts education nonprofits are essential in fostering creativity, cultural understanding, and artistic skills within communities. These organizations often depend significantly on volunteers to sustain their programs, events, and outreach activities. However, many arts nonprofits might overlook a valuable funding source that can enhance the impact of volunteer efforts: volunteer grants.

Volunteer grants are a type of corporate philanthropy where companies reward employees for their volunteer time by donating to the nonprofits they support. For arts education nonprofits, understanding and utilizing volunteer grants can open up new revenue streams without needing additional fundraising efforts from donors. This article delves into how arts education nonprofits can identify, promote, and benefit from volunteer grant programs offered by companies like Chevron, Walmart & Sam’s Club, Bank of America, and Starbucks.

What are volunteer grants?

Volunteer grants are donations made by a volunteer’s employer to a nonprofit organization in recognition of the time their employee spends volunteering. These grants are typically part of corporate giving or employee engagement programs designed to encourage and reward community involvement. When an employee volunteers a certain number of hours, their employer may provide a monetary donation to the nonprofit where the volunteer contributed their time.

Typically, companies set specific criteria for volunteer grants, including minimum hour requirements—often ranging from 10 to 50 hours—and a fixed donation amount per hour volunteered. For example, an employer might donate $10 to $25 for every hour an employee volunteers, turning volunteer time into tangible financial support for the nonprofit.

Despite their potential, volunteer grants remain relatively unknown, even among eligible volunteers. Many employees are unaware that their companies offer such programs, and nonprofits may not actively promote or track these opportunities. This lack of awareness means volunteer grants represent an untapped source of funding for many organizations, including those in arts education.

By educating volunteers and supporters about volunteer grants, nonprofits can significantly amplify the value of volunteer contributions. Volunteer grants not only recognize the time and effort of volunteers but also provide essential funding that can support program expansion, materials, and outreach. Understanding the basics of volunteer grants helps nonprofits see the potential to grow their resources while deepening volunteer engagement.

How volunteer grants work

Volunteer grants are usually administered through a formal application process where the volunteer submits proof of their hours to their employer. Once verified, the company issues a grant check or electronic donation to the nonprofit. Some companies also offer team volunteer grants, where groups of employees volunteering together can qualify for larger donations.

These programs are often managed by corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments or human resources teams, and many companies provide online portals or forms to streamline the application process. Nonprofits can assist volunteers by providing documentation or confirmation letters to support their grant requests.

Common eligibility requirements

While specifics vary by company, common eligibility criteria include:

• Minimum volunteer hours (e.g., 10 or more hours)
• Volunteering for a registered nonprofit organization
• Volunteering during a specified time frame (e.g., within the calendar year)
• Volunteering in a role that supports the nonprofit’s mission

Understanding these requirements helps nonprofits guide volunteers through the process and maximize grant submissions.

Why do volunteer grants matter for arts education nonprofits?

Volunteer grants offer arts education nonprofits a unique opportunity to secure essential funding without asking supporters for additional financial contributions. Since arts nonprofits often rely heavily on volunteers for teaching, event support, and community outreach, volunteer grants can provide a high return on investment by turning volunteer hours into monetary donations.

For example, imagine 10 volunteers each logging 20 hours of service at an arts education nonprofit. If their employers offer volunteer grants of $10 per hour, the organization could receive $2,000 in funding simply by encouraging volunteers to apply for these grants. This funding can be used to purchase art supplies, fund workshops, or expand outreach programs—directly supporting the nonprofit’s mission.

Arts education nonprofits frequently face budget constraints, making volunteer grants a strategic funding source that aligns with their mission. These grants help bridge funding gaps for programming, facility improvements, or community events without diverting resources from other fundraising efforts.

Moreover, volunteer grants reinforce the value of volunteer contributions, motivating supporters to engage more deeply. When volunteers see that their time not only benefits the community but also generates financial support, they are more likely to remain committed and encourage others to participate.

Supporting program growth and outreach

Volunteer grants can fund a variety of arts education initiatives, such as after-school art classes, summer camps, artist residencies, and community exhibitions. By supplementing budgets with volunteer grant funds, nonprofits can expand their reach and impact more students and community members.

For instance, a grant generated from volunteer hours could cover the cost of hiring guest artists or purchasing specialized materials for a new program. This flexibility allows arts nonprofits to innovate and respond to community needs more effectively.

Enhancing volunteer engagement

Volunteer grants also serve as a powerful engagement tool. When volunteers understand that their employers support their efforts through financial grants, they feel recognized and valued. This recognition can increase volunteer retention and attract new supporters who want to contribute both time and financial resources indirectly.

How to identify volunteer grant opportunities for arts education nonprofits

Identifying volunteer grant opportunities begins with knowing which volunteers work for companies that offer these programs. Since volunteer grants are employer-specific, nonprofits need to gather information about their volunteers’ workplaces to tap into this funding source effectively.

One practical step is to ask volunteers about their employers during onboarding or through engagement surveys. Including a simple question about their workplace can help nonprofits build a database of companies with potential volunteer grant programs.

Encouraging volunteers to check with their human resources departments or corporate intranet sites can also uncover available volunteer grant programs. Many companies provide detailed information about their employee giving and volunteer grant policies online.

Nonprofits can leverage volunteer grant databases and tools such as Double the Donation, which track companies offering volunteer grant programs. These platforms allow organizations to search for companies by name and learn about their specific grant criteria and application processes.

Analyzing existing volunteer data can reveal trends or clusters of volunteers employed by companies with active volunteer grant programs. Segmenting communications by employer enables nonprofits to tailor outreach and provide targeted information about volunteer grants.

For arts education nonprofits, it’s helpful to consider industry-relevant examples. For instance, volunteers working at local businesses, educational institutions, or corporations with strong community engagement policies may be more likely to have access to volunteer grant programs. Identifying these connections helps nonprofits focus their efforts where the potential for grant revenue is highest.

Companies that offer volunteer grants for arts education nonprofits

Many large employers with active corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives offer volunteer grant programs that can benefit arts education nonprofits. Companies like these are known for encouraging employee community involvement and providing financial support through volunteer grants:

Chevron, a major energy company, supports community engagement through various grant programs, including volunteer grants that recognize employees’ time spent volunteering. Their commitment to education and community development aligns well with arts education nonprofits seeking funding.

Walmart & Sam’s Club, as large retail employers, have extensive volunteer grant programs. They often encourage employees to volunteer locally and provide grants to nonprofits where employees contribute significant volunteer hours. Arts education nonprofits can benefit from these programs by engaging Walmart and Sam’s Club employees in their communities.

Bank of America, a leading financial institution, offers volunteer grants as part of its broader philanthropic efforts. Their programs often focus on education, workforce development, and community revitalization, making arts education nonprofits a natural fit for support.

Starbucks, known for its community involvement, provides volunteer grants to employees who volunteer at eligible nonprofits. Their focus on education and youth development aligns with many arts education missions, offering another avenue for funding.

These companies share common traits: they are large employers with formal CSR policies, they actively promote employee volunteerism, and they have established volunteer grant programs. However, volunteer grants are not limited to these companies alone. Many businesses across industries—from healthcare to technology to finance—offer similar programs.

Arts education nonprofits should analyze the employment affiliations of their current volunteer base to identify potential volunteer grant opportunities. Recognizing that many supporters may already be connected to companies willing to provide financial support is the first step toward unlocking this revenue stream.

Characteristics of companies with volunteer grant programs

• Large workforce with diverse employee base
• Strong commitment to corporate social responsibility
• Formalized employee engagement and volunteer programs
• Clear policies and processes for volunteer grant applications

Expanding beyond well-known companies

While Chevron, Walmart & Sam’s Club, Bank of America, and Starbucks are prominent examples, arts education nonprofits should also explore local businesses, regional employers, and smaller companies that may offer volunteer grants. Building relationships with these employers can open additional funding channels.

How to promote volunteer grants to arts education supporters

Many volunteers are unaware that their employers offer volunteer grant programs, so raising awareness is critical. Consistent and clear communication helps ensure that supporters understand how to leverage these opportunities to benefit the nonprofit.

Including information about volunteer grants in onboarding materials and thank-you emails is an effective way to introduce new volunteers to the concept. Providing step-by-step instructions or links to resources can simplify the process and encourage participation.

Adding a dedicated page or FAQ section on the organization’s website that explains volunteer grants, eligibility criteria, and application procedures makes information easily accessible. This resource can serve as a reference for volunteers throughout their engagement.

Featuring calls-to-action in newsletters, social media posts, and event signage keeps volunteer grants top of mind. Highlighting success stories or examples of how volunteer grants have supported programs can motivate volunteers to apply.

Training staff and volunteer coordinators to remind supporters about volunteer grants during interactions ensures that the opportunity is consistently communicated. These team members can also provide assistance or direct volunteers to helpful resources.

Making the process as simple and accessible as possible is key. Offering templates for grant applications, providing confirmation letters, or designating a point of contact for questions reduces barriers and increases the likelihood of successful submissions.

Effective promotion not only increases participation in volunteer grant programs but also helps turn volunteer time into additional funding. This dual benefit strengthens the nonprofit’s mission and fosters a culture of community support and engagement.

Leveraging multiple communication channels

Use email campaigns, social media platforms, volunteer meetings, and printed materials to reach supporters with volunteer grant information. Tailoring messages to different audiences ensures broader awareness.

Recognizing volunteers who secure grants

Publicly acknowledging volunteers who successfully obtain volunteer grants can inspire others to follow suit. Celebrations can be held during events, featured in newsletters, or shared on social media.

Volunteer grant FAQ for arts education nonprofits

Can volunteers apply for grants on behalf of the nonprofit?

Generally, volunteer grants are applied for by the employee volunteer themselves, not the nonprofit. However, nonprofits can support volunteers by providing documentation or verification of volunteer hours to facilitate the application process.

Are volunteer grants taxable income for the nonprofit?

Volunteer grants are typically considered charitable donations and are not taxable income for the nonprofit. However, nonprofits should consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Do all companies offer volunteer grants?

No, not all companies have volunteer grant programs. While many offer them, these programs are more common among larger employers with established corporate social responsibility initiatives. Therefore, it’s essential to research and confirm whether a volunteer’s employer offers such a program.

How long does it take to receive a volunteer grant after applying?

The timeline varies by company, but usually ranges from a few weeks to a few months after the volunteer submits their application and the employer verifies the hours. Nonprofits should encourage volunteers to apply promptly and follow up as needed.

Can volunteer grants be used for any nonprofit expense?

Volunteer grants are generally unrestricted donations, meaning nonprofits can use the funds for any purpose that supports their mission. However, it’s good practice to use the funds in ways that align with the volunteer’s contribution and the organization’s goals.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Volunteer grants represent a significant opportunity for arts education nonprofits to enhance their funding without additional financial contributions from supporters. By understanding and promoting these programs, nonprofits can transform volunteer hours into valuable financial resources, supporting their mission and expanding their impact. The next steps involve building awareness among volunteers, creating streamlined processes for grant applications, and fostering relationships with companies that offer these grants. By doing so, arts education nonprofits can ensure they are maximizing the potential of volunteer grants.

Get Started with Double the Donation Volunteering

To begin leveraging volunteer grants, arts education nonprofits can utilize resources like Double the Donation to identify potential grant opportunities and streamline the application process. By partnering with Double the Donation, nonprofits can access tools and databases that simplify the identification and promotion of volunteer grants, ensuring that every volunteer hour contributes to the organization’s financial health. Get a demo today to see how Double the Donation Volunteering can help!

Environmental conservation organizations are pivotal in safeguarding our planet’s natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. These nonprofits often depend on the commitment and enthusiasm of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to various initiatives, from habitat restoration to community education. Beyond the invaluable labor volunteers provide, there is another way their efforts can translate into financial support for these organizations: volunteer grants.

Volunteer grants are a potent yet underutilized funding source that can significantly enhance the revenue of environmental conservation groups. By understanding how these grants work and how to leverage them effectively, nonprofits can unlock new streams of funding that directly support their mission. This article will delve into the concept of volunteer grants, their importance for environmental conservation, how to identify opportunities, and strategies to promote them among supporters.

What are volunteer grants?

Volunteer grants are donations made by a volunteer’s employer to a nonprofit organization in recognition of the time their employee spends volunteering. These grants are typically part of corporate giving or employee engagement programs designed to encourage and reward community involvement. Essentially, when an employee volunteers a certain number of hours, their company may provide a monetary donation to the nonprofit where the volunteer contributed their time.

Most volunteer grant programs have specific criteria, such as a minimum number of volunteer hours required before a grant can be requested. The donation amount often correlates with the number of hours volunteered, with companies offering a fixed dollar amount per hour. For example, a company might donate $10 for every hour an employee volunteers, provided the volunteer meets a minimum threshold like 10 or 20 hours.

Despite their potential, volunteer grants remain relatively unknown—even among eligible volunteers. Many nonprofits and volunteers are unaware that these programs exist or how to access them. This lack of awareness means that a significant source of funding often goes untapped. Educating volunteers and staff about volunteer grants can unlock substantial financial support that amplifies the impact of volunteer efforts.

Volunteer grants represent a win-win opportunity: nonprofits receive additional funding without asking for extra donations, and companies demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility by supporting causes their employees care about. Understanding the basics of volunteer grants is the first step toward harnessing this valuable resource.

Why do volunteer grants matter for Environmental Conservation?

Volunteer grants hold particular significance for environmental conservation organizations because these groups often depend heavily on volunteer labor to carry out their mission. From planting trees and cleaning waterways to conducting wildlife surveys and educating the public, volunteers are the backbone of many conservation efforts. Volunteer grants provide a way to convert this time and effort into tangible financial support without requiring additional fundraising from donors.

For environmental nonprofits, funding is frequently limited and highly competitive. Volunteer grants offer a high return on investment because they leverage existing volunteer hours to generate new revenue. For example, if 10 volunteers each contribute 20 hours to a local habitat restoration project, and their employers offer $10 per volunteer hour in grants, the organization could receive $2,000 in funding simply by submitting grant requests. This money can then be used to purchase supplies, fund educational programs, or support ongoing conservation initiatives.

Moreover, volunteer grants align closely with the mission of environmental organizations. They encourage community engagement and foster a culture of stewardship, which is essential for long-term conservation success. By promoting volunteer grants, nonprofits not only increase their funding but also deepen relationships with volunteers and corporate partners who share their environmental values.

In short, volunteer grants are a strategic funding opportunity that environmental conservation organizations cannot afford to overlook. They provide essential resources while reinforcing the community-driven nature of conservation work.

How to identify volunteer grant opportunities for Environmental Conservation

Identifying volunteer grant opportunities begins with understanding which volunteers work for companies that offer these programs. Since volunteer grants are employer-driven, knowing the corporate affiliations of your volunteer base is critical.

One practical step is to ask volunteers about their employers during onboarding or through engagement surveys. This information can help your organization build a database of companies that may provide volunteer grants. Encouraging volunteers to check with their human resources departments or corporate intranet sites can also uncover available programs they might not be aware of.

Additionally, there are specialized volunteer grant databases and tools, such as Double the Donation, that nonprofits can use to search for companies with known volunteer grant programs. These platforms often provide detailed information about program requirements, donation amounts, and application processes.

Analyzing existing volunteer data can reveal trends or highlight companies that already support your cause through volunteer grants. Segmenting communications by employer allows you to personalize outreach and provide targeted information about how volunteers can submit grant requests.

For environmental conservation organizations, it’s helpful to consider industry-relevant examples. For instance, tech companies may have robust volunteer grant programs supporting STEM and environmental causes. Local businesses or energy companies might also offer grants aligned with community and environmental initiatives. Understanding these connections helps tailor your approach and maximize grant revenue.

By taking these actionable steps, nonprofits can systematically identify and pursue volunteer grant opportunities that align with their mission and volunteer demographics.

Companies that offer volunteer grants for Environmental Conservation

Several well-known companies have established volunteer grant programs that are particularly relevant to environmental conservation organizations. These companies often share common traits: they are large employers with active corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and encourage employee community involvement.

Chevron, for example, is a major energy company that supports environmental stewardship and community engagement through its volunteer grant program. Employees who volunteer their time can help direct corporate donations to nonprofits focused on conservation and sustainability.

Microsoft is another prominent example. As a global technology leader, Microsoft offers volunteer grants as part of its broader commitment to social impact. Their program encourages employees to contribute volunteer hours to causes they care about, including environmental protection and climate action.

Coinstar, known for its coin-counting kiosks, also supports volunteerism through grant programs. While smaller than some tech giants, Coinstar’s volunteer grants help fund local community and environmental projects where their employees are active.

Verizon, a telecommunications leader, has a strong CSR focus that includes volunteer grants. Verizon employees who dedicate time to environmental causes can help secure additional funding for nonprofits working on conservation efforts.

These companies represent a cross-section of industries—from energy and technology to finance and telecommunications—demonstrating that volunteer grant programs are widespread and accessible. Nonprofits should examine the employment affiliations of their volunteers to identify potential grant opportunities from these and other companies.

How to promote volunteer grants to Environmental Conservation supporters

When it comes to making the most of the programs, marketing volunteer grants is essential for increasing participation and maximizing the financial benefits for environmental conservation organizations. Many volunteers are simply unaware that these programs exist, so clear and consistent communication is key.

One effective strategy is to include information about volunteer grants in onboarding materials for new volunteers. This ensures that from the outset, volunteers know their time can translate into additional funding. Follow-up thank-you emails after volunteer events can also remind participants about the opportunity to request grants from their employers.

Creating a dedicated page or FAQ section on your organization’s website can serve as a centralized resource for volunteers seeking information about volunteer grants. This page can outline eligibility criteria, application steps, and provide downloadable templates or forms to simplify the process.

Newsletters, social media posts, and event signage are additional touchpoints where you can feature calls-to-action encouraging volunteers to explore volunteer grant programs. Regular reminders help keep the opportunity top of mind.

Training staff and volunteer coordinators to mention volunteer grants during interactions with supporters can further boost awareness. These team members can serve as points of contact to assist volunteers with questions or the application process.

Making the process as simple and accessible as possible is crucial. Providing clear instructions, offering assistance, and celebrating successes when grants are received can motivate more volunteers to participate. Ultimately, effective promotion turns volunteer time into additional funding, creating a lasting impact on your environmental conservation mission.

Volunteer grant FAQ for Environmental Conservation

Can volunteers apply for grants on behalf of the nonprofit, or does the organization need to do it?

Typically, volunteer grants require the volunteer to submit the application or request through their employer’s program. However, nonprofits can support volunteers by providing necessary documentation, such as proof of volunteer hours or confirmation letters. Some organizations also assist by offering clear instructions or templates to make the process easier for volunteers.

Are volunteer grants available for virtual or remote volunteering activities?

Many companies have adapted their volunteer grant programs to include virtual volunteering, especially in recent years. However, eligibility varies by employer. It’s important to check the specific guidelines of each company’s program to determine if remote volunteer hours qualify for grants.

Is there a limit to how many volunteer grants a nonprofit can receive from a single company?

Most volunteer grant programs have annual limits on the number of grants an employee can request or the total amount a nonprofit can receive from a single company. These limits vary widely, so nonprofits should review each company’s policies and plan accordingly to maximize opportunities.

How long does it usually take to receive funds from a volunteer grant?

The timeline for receiving volunteer grant funds depends on the company’s processing procedures. It can range from a few weeks to a couple of months after the application is submitted. Nonprofits should communicate expected timelines to volunteers to manage expectations.

Can volunteer grants be used for any purpose within the nonprofit?

Generally, volunteer grants are unrestricted funds that nonprofits can use as needed. However, some companies may have specific guidelines or preferences for how the funds are used. It’s a good practice to review any restrictions and align grant usage with the organization’s priorities and the company’s CSR goals.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Volunteer grants offer a unique opportunity for environmental conservation organizations to convert volunteer hours into financial resources. By educating volunteers and staff, identifying potential grant opportunities, and promoting these programs effectively, nonprofits can significantly enhance their funding. This not only supports their mission but also strengthens community ties and corporate partnerships.

As a next step, organizations should focus on building awareness and simplifying the grant application process for volunteers. Regularly updating volunteers on new opportunities and celebrating successful grant acquisitions can further motivate participation. By integrating volunteer grants into their funding strategy, conservation groups can ensure a sustainable future for their initiatives.

Get Started with Double the Donation Volunteering

Ready to unlock the potential of volunteer grants for your environmental conservation efforts? Double the Donation offers tools and resources to help you identify and maximize volunteer grant opportunities. By partnering with Double the Donation, you can streamline the process, educate your volunteers, and increase your funding. Start today and make a greater impact on the environment! Request a personalized demo of Double the Donation Volunteering now.

Zoos and aquariums are essential to conservation, education, and community engagement. These institutions often depend on volunteers who generously contribute their time and energy to support animal care, educational programs, and facility maintenance. However, many zoos and aquariums may be overlooking a valuable funding opportunity that can enhance the impact of volunteer efforts: volunteer grants.

Volunteer grants are a form of corporate philanthropy that rewards employees for their volunteer hours by providing financial donations to the nonprofits they support. For zoos and aquariums, tapping into this resource can unlock new streams of revenue without requiring additional fundraising efforts from donors. Understanding how volunteer grants work and how to leverage them effectively can help these organizations grow their funding and deepen community involvement.

What are volunteer grants?

Volunteer grants are donations made by a volunteer’s employer to a nonprofit organization in recognition of the time their employee spends volunteering. These grants are typically part of corporate giving or employee engagement programs designed to encourage and reward community involvement. When an employee volunteers a certain number of hours, their employer may provide a monetary donation to the nonprofit where the volunteer contributed their time.

Most volunteer grant programs have specific criteria, including minimum hour requirements—often ranging from 10 to 50 hours of volunteer service—and a set donation amount per hour volunteered. For example, a company might donate $10 for every hour an employee volunteers, up to a maximum amount annually. These programs are structured to motivate employees to engage with their communities while supporting nonprofits financially.

Despite their potential, volunteer grants are not widely known, even among eligible volunteers. Many volunteers are unaware that their employers offer such programs, which means nonprofits must take an active role in educating and promoting these opportunities. Volunteer grants represent an untapped source of funding that can significantly amplify the value of volunteer contributions, turning hours of service into meaningful financial support.

By understanding the basics of volunteer grants, nonprofit leaders can begin to see how these programs can complement traditional fundraising and volunteer management efforts. Volunteer grants are a win-win: they recognize the generosity of volunteers and provide nonprofits with additional resources to advance their missions.

Why do volunteer grants matter for zoos & aquariums?

Volunteer grants hold particular significance for zoos and aquariums because these organizations often depend heavily on volunteers to fulfill their missions. From animal care assistants and educational program facilitators to event staff and maintenance helpers, volunteers are integral to daily operations. Volunteer grants provide a way to convert this invaluable human capital into financial support without asking for extra donations.

For zoos and aquariums, volunteer grants can fund a wide range of needs. For instance, grants can help cover the costs of specialized animal medical care, purchase enrichment supplies that improve animal welfare, or support educational outreach programs that engage visitors and schools. Imagine a scenario where 10 volunteers each log 20 hours of service; if their employers offer volunteer grants at $10 per hour, that could translate into $2,000 in additional funding for the organization.

This funding model is especially attractive because it leverages existing volunteer engagement rather than requiring new fundraising campaigns. It’s a high-return-on-investment opportunity that aligns perfectly with the mission-driven work of zoos and aquariums. By encouraging volunteers to participate in grant programs, these organizations can boost their budgets while deepening volunteer satisfaction and involvement.

Moreover, volunteer grants can help zoos and aquariums diversify their funding sources, reducing reliance on ticket sales or traditional donations. This financial flexibility can be critical in times of economic uncertainty or when unexpected expenses arise. Ultimately, volunteer grants empower zoos and aquariums to do more for animal care, conservation, and community education.

How to identify volunteer grant opportunities for zoos & aquariums

Identifying volunteer grant opportunities begins with understanding which volunteers work for companies that offer these programs. Since volunteer grants are employer-driven, knowing the employment affiliations of your volunteer base is essential. This knowledge allows your organization to target outreach and support efforts effectively.

One practical step is to ask volunteers about their employers during onboarding or through engagement surveys. This information can be collected in a friendly, non-intrusive way, such as including a question on volunteer registration forms or periodic check-ins. Gathering this data helps build a profile of potential grant sources within your volunteer community.

Encourage volunteers to check with their human resources departments or corporate intranet portals to learn about available volunteer grant programs. Many companies provide detailed information and instructions on how employees can submit grant requests. Providing volunteers with this guidance can simplify the process and increase participation.

Utilizing volunteer grant databases and tools, such as Double the Donation, can also streamline the search for companies with known volunteer grant programs. These platforms allow nonprofits to identify and track corporate giving opportunities based on volunteer employer information.

Analyzing existing volunteer data for trends or clusters of employees from companies known to offer volunteer grants can help prioritize outreach efforts. Segmenting communications by employer enables personalized messaging that resonates with volunteers and encourages them to take advantage of their company’s programs.

For zoos and aquariums, it’s helpful to consider industry-relevant examples. For instance, tech companies like Dell and Microsoft often have robust volunteer grant programs and may employ volunteers passionate about STEM education or environmental conservation. Local businesses and large corporations such as Disney and Verizon may also support community-focused causes, including wildlife preservation and education.

By taking these actionable steps, zoos and aquariums can uncover and maximize volunteer grant opportunities that align with their mission and volunteer demographics.

Companies that offer volunteer grants for zoos & aquariums

Several well-known companies offer volunteer grant programs that can benefit zoos and aquariums. These companies typically share common traits: they are large employers with active corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and encourage employee community involvement. Understanding these traits can help nonprofits identify potential partners within their volunteer base.

Dell, for example, is a global technology company with a strong commitment to community engagement. Dell’s volunteer grant program rewards employees who dedicate time to nonprofit causes, including environmental and educational organizations. Volunteers working for Dell may be eligible to request grants that support zoos and aquariums.

Disney, a leader in entertainment and media, also offers volunteer grants through its corporate citizenship programs. Disney employees who volunteer at zoos and aquariums can help their organizations secure additional funding, supporting animal care and visitor education initiatives.

Microsoft, another tech giant, has a well-established volunteer grant program that encourages employees to contribute their time to nonprofits. Given Microsoft’s focus on innovation and education, zoos and aquariums with STEM-related programming may find strong alignment with Microsoft’s philanthropic goals.

Verizon, a major telecommunications company, supports volunteerism through grants that recognize employee service. Verizon’s programs often emphasize community development and education, making them a valuable resource for zoos and aquariums seeking funding for outreach and conservation projects.

Beyond these examples, companies across various industries—from healthcare to finance to retail—may offer volunteer grant programs that align with the mission of zoos and aquariums. Nonprofits should review the employment affiliations of their volunteers to identify potential opportunities and build relationships with corporate partners. Recognizing that many supporters may already be connected to companies willing to provide financial support through volunteer grants is the first step toward unlocking this valuable resource.

How to promote volunteer grants to zoo & aquarium supporters

Promoting volunteer grants effectively requires clear, consistent communication to raise awareness among supporters. Many volunteers are unaware that their employers offer these programs, so education is key to increasing participation and maximizing funding.

Start by including information about volunteer grants in onboarding materials for new volunteers. Providing a brief overview and instructions during orientation sets the stage for ongoing engagement. Follow up with thank-you emails that remind volunteers about the opportunity to convert their hours into financial support for the zoo or aquarium.

Adding a dedicated page or FAQ section on your organization’s website can serve as a centralized resource for volunteers seeking information about volunteer grants. This page should include step-by-step instructions, links to company programs, and contact information for staff who can assist with questions.

Incorporate calls-to-action in newsletters, social media posts, and event signage to keep volunteer grants top of mind. Highlight success stories where volunteer grants have made a tangible impact, inspiring others to participate.

Training staff and volunteer coordinators to remind supporters about volunteer grants during interactions can further boost awareness. These team members can provide personalized guidance and encourage volunteers to submit grant requests.

Making the process as simple and accessible as possible is crucial. Offering templates for grant requests, clear deadlines, and a designated point of contact helps remove barriers and increases the likelihood of successful submissions.

Effective promotion not only increases volunteer grant participation but also helps turn volunteer time into additional funding, creating a lasting impact on the mission of zoos and aquariums. By embedding volunteer grant awareness into your organizational culture, you empower supporters to contribute in new and meaningful ways.

Volunteer grant FAQ for zoos & aquariums

How do volunteers apply for a volunteer grant?

Volunteers typically apply for volunteer grants through their employer’s corporate giving or HR portal. The process usually involves submitting proof of volunteer hours and information about the nonprofit organization. Some companies require the nonprofit to verify the volunteer’s service. Providing volunteers with clear instructions and any necessary documentation can simplify this process.

Are volunteer grants taxable income for the nonprofit?

No, volunteer grants are considered charitable donations and are not taxable income for the nonprofit. These grants are treated like any other corporate donation and should be recorded accordingly for accounting and tax purposes.

Can volunteers combine hours from multiple companies for a single grant?

No, volunteer grants are awarded by individual employers based on their employees’ volunteer hours. Hours volunteered for different companies cannot be combined for a single grant. However, volunteers can submit separate grant requests to each employer if they qualify.

What if a volunteer’s employer does not offer a volunteer grant program?

If a volunteer’s employer does not have a volunteer grant program, the nonprofit can still encourage the volunteer to seek other ways to support the organization, such as direct donations or fundraising. Additionally, nonprofits can focus on volunteers who work for companies with known grant programs to maximize opportunities.

How can zoos and aquariums track volunteer hours for grant eligibility?

Zoos and aquariums should maintain accurate records of volunteer hours using sign-in sheets, digital tracking systems, or volunteer management software. Clear documentation is essential for verifying hours when volunteers apply for grants. Providing volunteers with official confirmation letters or certificates can also support their grant applications.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Volunteer grants present a remarkable opportunity for zoos and aquariums to enhance their funding without additional fundraising efforts. By understanding and promoting these programs, organizations can convert volunteer hours into substantial financial support. The next steps involve educating volunteers, identifying potential grant opportunities, and fostering relationships with corporate partners. By embedding volunteer grant awareness into your organizational culture, you empower supporters to contribute in new and meaningful ways.

Get Started with Double the Donation Volunteering

Ready to unlock the potential of volunteer grants for your zoo or aquarium? Double the Donation offers tools and resources to help you identify and maximize volunteer grant opportunities. By leveraging these resources, you can streamline the process and ensure that your organization benefits from this valuable funding source. Start today and watch your volunteer engagement transform into impactful financial support. Request a personalized demo of Double the Donation Volunteering to kick off your efforts!