In today’s competitive job market, companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to boost employee morale, deepen engagement, and improve retention. One powerful yet often underutilized strategy is classroom volunteerism, a form of corporate engagement that not only benefits students and schools but creates a lasting positive impact on employees and the organizations they serve. 

Why Classroom Volunteerism Matters 

When employees step into a classroom, they’re doing more than representing their company, they’re becoming mentors and role models. These experiences provide a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the community, which can strengthen employee satisfaction and workplace pride. 

In fact, a 2024 Deloitte Volunteerism Survey found that 87% of respondents consider workplace volunteer opportunities important when deciding whether to stay with their current employer or pursue a new one. That figure climbs even higher among younger generations, especially Gen Z—who are not only mission-driven but actively seek out employers aligned with their values. 

For companies looking to attract and retain the next generation of talent, this matters. Gen Z is vocal about their desire to work for companies that give back to their communities. Integrating classroom volunteerism into your culture doesn’t just enhance your social impact—it also positions your company as a values-driven employer that young talent wants to be part of. 

Real-Life Volunteer Impact 

Here are just a few stories that highlight the power of giving back: 

• Canvas Credit Union: Canvas Credit Union is deeply committed to employee volunteerism by supporting K-12 schools through its community outreach initiatives. Last school year alone, Canvas volunteers made a meaningful impact by reaching over 300 classrooms across the Denver Metro area. Their efforts bring financial education and real-world insights directly to K–12 students, fostering a culture of learning and empowerment.  

• OneMain Financial: OneMain Financial has made financial empowerment a cornerstone of its community outreach. Through its partnership with EVERFI, OneMain provides financial education to students across the U.S. OneMain employees participate in classroom events focused on budgeting, credit education, and career readiness – equipping students with tools they need to build brighter financial futures. 

• Suncoast Credit Union: As Florida’s largest credit union, Suncoast is deeply invested in student success. Through the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, the organization awarded $7.63 million in funding to support youth initiatives in 2024. Suncoast also sponsors over 100 schools through their partnership with EVERFI across West Florida. Suncoast employees actively volunteer in local classrooms, hosting engaging financial education activities and sharing career insights. 

These programs not only benefit the communities they serve—they also create powerful stories of impact that companies can share internally and externally, reinforcing their commitment to purpose and people. 

The Business Case for Volunteerism 

Research consistently shows that employees who engage in meaningful volunteer work report, making a strong business case for classroom volunteerism:  

• Higher job satisfaction 

• Stronger connection to their company 

• Improved retention 

• Stronger corporate culture 

How to Get Started 

EVERFI makes it easy for companies to integrate volunteerism into their culture. With ready-to-use digital lessons, training resources, and school partnerships, employees can make a meaningful impact with just a few hours of their time. When employees give back, everyone wins. Classroom volunteerism is more than a good deed—it’s a strategic investment in people, purpose, and long-term success.