Does Your Employer Match Your Volunteer Hours?

Did you know that your volunteer hours could provide even more meals for those in need? Many companies offer volunteer matching programs, donating funds to nonprofits like the Redwood Empire Food Bank based on the time their employees spend volunteering. That means every hour you give could turn into even greater support for our community!

Retired? You may still qualify! Some companies extend these benefits to retirees, so it’s worth checking with your former employer or using our Employer Gift Matching Tool to see if your volunteer hours can go even further.

Employer Match Eligibility & Benefits

Many companies offer financial matches for volunteer hours, but the details vary. Employer match amounts typically range from $10 to $25 per volunteer hour, with some companies offering even higher rates. Some match donations dollar-for-dollar (1:1) or provide a fixed grant once an employee reaches a set number of hours.

Employee eligibility also depends on company policy. Most programs are available to full-time and part-time employees, and some extend benefits to retired employees as well. It’s always a good idea to check with your employer to see if you qualify.

Companies may also offer corporate volunteering benefits, such as Volunteer Time Off (VTO), which allows employees to take paid time off to volunteer, or corporate group volunteer opportunities, where teams can serve together. Additionally, many businesses provide volunteer grants, awarding donations to nonprofits once an employee completes a certain number of volunteer hours. For example, some companies contribute $500 for 20 hours of volunteering, with requirements varying by employer.

Checking your company’s policies could mean turning your volunteer time into even more meals for neighbors in need. If your employer offers a matching program, submitting your hours is an easy way to increase your impact and encourage your company to give back to the community.

4 Easy Steps to Submit Your Volunteer Hours

1. Start by checking with your HR department or reviewing your company’s benefits portal to see if they offer a volunteer hour matching program. Be sure to look over the guidelines, including any deadlines or minimum-hour requirements.
2. Next, track your volunteer hours by logging into your Redwood Empire Food Bank volunteer profile, where you can access your recorded time. 
3. Once you have your hours, follow your employer’s submission process, whether it’s an online form, company portal, or paperwork. Some companies allow submissions throughout the year, while others prefer them at the end of the year—setting a reminder can help ensure you don’t miss out.
4. After approval, your company will send a matching donation to the Redwood Empire Food Bank, turning your volunteer time into even more meals for neighbors in need. 

Every hour counts, and with employer matching, your generosity can stretch even further! If you have questions or need assistance, contact our volunteer team—we’re happy to help.

Thank you for helping us End Hunger in Our Community!