Corporate volunteerism has become one of the most effective strategies to boost workplace culture, develop strong teams, and showcase your commitment to the community. It can look different in every workplace — company-wide service days, volunteer time off, skills-based volunteering, or grant programs. But no matter the format, one thing is clear: When your organization volunteers, you’re not just giving back, you’re building meaningful connections and showing that you’re invested in the growth and success of the community.
The HumanKind Lynchburg Turkey Trot, presented by Scott Insurance, provides an exceptional opportunity for corporate teams to experience the transformative power of collective service while supporting this impact firsthand. With opportunities for November 18, 19, 21, 26, and 27 (the big day), the Turkey Trot features multiple volunteer zones where employees can come together, serve side by side, and contribute to one of the community’s most beloved traditions that has been going on for 37 years!
Professional Development through Volunteering
Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the community — it builds stronger professionals. The skills employees develop through volunteering directly translate to enhanced workplace performance. When HumanKind’s volunteers were asked in a survey what skills they learned through volunteering that would help them in their jobs, they identified crucial workplace competencies including communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, time management, adaptability, and customer service.
One volunteer reflected, “I learned how to better express myself and listen to others, which is very useful for teamwork and dealing with clients in my work.” Another shared how volunteering improved their time management: “I needed to balance volunteering tasks with my own schedule, which improved my ability to manage time effectively and complete tasks on time in my work.”
Creating a Culture of Investment
Serving together builds camaraderie in ways no traditional team-building activity can. As HealthCarousel notes, “Colleagues tend to form bonds and friendships while working on projects outside of work. People who volunteer together often discover shared interests. When workplace relationships improve, productivity and job satisfaction follow.”
One volunteer highlighted the joy of collective impact: “I love how much they give back to the community, and I enjoy collaborating during the Turkey Trot volunteer shift.”
By having leadership that directly gives opportunities to their staff members and is then willing to be flexible with that staff member’s work schedule, organizations are creating a culture of investment — in the staff and community. This approach demonstrates that the company values employee growth and community engagement, leading to increased employee satisfaction and loyalty.
In fact, studies have shown that 78% of volunteers experience reduced stress levels, and 77% report improved mental health. When employees feel supported in their desire to give back, they bring renewed energy and perspective to their professional roles.
The Ripple Effects: Attraction, Retention, and Community Partnerships
Corporate volunteerism serves as a powerful tool for talent acquisition and retention. This will help you attract more applicants and retain those staff members who value working for organizations that prioritize community engagement and social responsibility. Younger generations especially prioritize employers whose values align with their own.
Additionally, volunteering creates valuable networking opportunities and community partnerships. This will also help build relationships with organizations that can grow into something much bigger in the future, whether through client relationships, collaborative projects, or expanded community initiatives.
The Turkey Trot Experience: A Testament to Community Impact
The voices of last year’s Turkey Trot volunteers speak to the impact of this service opportunity. One volunteer shared, “I loved getting to see little kids get excited when I cheered them on during the Turkey Trot.” Another described a deeply meaningful moment: “Volunteering during the Turkey Trot is always a positive experience. The runners seem to be truly grateful for us being there and cheering them on. Last year (2023) I had the opportunity to walk with a participant in a wheelchair through part of the course when his companion became ill. He told me that he had always wanted to do the race, so it was a wonderful opportunity for me to be able to help him complete it.”
These moments show how the Turkey Trot brings people together and creates connections that last far beyond the event.
Take Action: Join the Turkey Trot 2025
The HumanKind Turkey Trot 2025 offers your organization a unique opportunity to invest in your team’s professional development while making a tangible difference in your community. With volunteer opportunities available on November 18, 19, 21, 26, and 27, there are multiple ways for your team to participate.
Get a group together and take on a zone. Your employees will develop crucial workplace skills, strengthen their relationships with colleagues, and experience the satisfaction that comes from serving their community. The positive effects of this shared experience will extend far beyond the event itself, creating lasting improvements in team dynamics, employee satisfaction, and your organization’s reputation as a community-minded employer.
