In today’s high-stakes business environment, companies are investing millions in technology, marketing, and operations — yet one of the most powerful drivers of growth often goes underleveraged: employee engagement. The data is undeniable. According to Gallup’s 2023 State of the Global Workplace report, companies with highly engaged teams see: 

• 23% higher profitability 

• 18% higher sales 

• 18%–43% less turnover 

• 81% lower absenteeism 

• 10% greater customer loyalty 

• 28% less shrinkage (theft) 

So, what fuels employee engagement in a meaningful, lasting way? 

Purpose-Driven Volunteerism 

One of the most effective — and scalable — ways to foster employee engagement is through purposeful volunteer and community engagement programs. These programs do more than check a CSR box. They offer employees a sense of purpose, help companies strengthen their brand reputation, and provide communities with resources they otherwise might not have access to. And when employees are engaged in their communities, they’re more engaged at work. 

Why Volunteerism Works 

EVERFI’s Trends & Opportunities report reveals that classroom volunteerism has a ripple effect across the organization. Benefits to companies and their employees include: 

• Higher morale and job satisfaction 

• Greater employee retention 

• Stronger alignment with corporate values 

• Improved brand affinity and reputation in the community 

Meanwhile, students and educators gain access to critical resources — like personal finance education, mentorship, access to career exploration, and more — that can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. 

Supporting Schools, Strengthening Your Workforce 

When companies support schools, they’re not only investing in the next generation, they’re creating new avenues for employees to connect with a greater purpose. Volunteering in classrooms, mentoring students, or helping schools deliver much-needed resources allows employees to see the real-world impact of their efforts, deepening both personal fulfillment and workplace engagement. With financial education mandates expanding across the country — often without funding — schools need support. That’s where business can step in, bridging the gap through both employee-led volunteerism and sponsored digital education. 

Through digital financial education programs, companies can: 

• Provide branded financial education to thousands of students 

• Empower employees to mentor, teach, and connect with students 

• Support schools in low-to-moderate income (LMI) communities 

Combining hands-on employee engagement with scalable education solutions creates stronger schools, more connected employees, and a more trusted brand. 

Purpose Leads to Performance 

The companies winning today and future proofing for tomorrow aren’t just those with the best product — they’re the ones that connect their brand to a broader mission. They give their teams the tools to do meaningful work and create pathways for future talent to thrive. Employee engagement is the growth engine you can’t afford to ignore. And sponsoring K–12 financial education is one of the smartest ways to activate it. 

Download the 2025 K–12 Trends & Opportunities Report to see how leading companies are using purpose-driven engagement to power business results.