A Three-Step Guide to Planning a Successful Community Service Event

By Keli Kliebhan, Corporate Citizenship Coordinator -- New Home Star

In 2013, Cone Communications released results from a study exploring the evolution of corporate social responsibility. The data encompassed one major trend: That companies today are "expected to be an active participant if not a driving force in solving the most pressing social and environmental issues." The reason? Modern professionals are placing increasing value on--and investing in--those corporations who make an effort to give back. 

Engaging in frequent outreach efforts as a company can be rewarding, both personally and professionally. Jumpstarting this habit (and keeping it going) can be simple. Here are three critical steps to creating a successful community service event: 

1. Research community outreach organizations that are interesting to you and your sales team.
   One of the best places to start is by gathering information from your team. Is there a cause that is particularly special to an individual or to your builder client? Remember, not every sales professional is going to be as passionate about volunteering as others. Take the time to learn about which local organizations can benefit your company; some team members might need to understand how volunteering can help them build their network in the greater community. Volunteering with an organization like Habitat For Humanity, that specializes in building homes across the globe for the less fortunate, is a great place to start for those in our industry. Additionally, most builder clients have charitable organizations that they donate to or work with already, making this a perfect way to start your outreach initiative and build perceived client value! Whatever you choose, make sure to get your entire team and your builder involved!
    
2. Document your event!
   While it's most important to bond with your team and make a substantial impact in the lives of others, it's good to get in the habit of documenting your outreach opportunities. Take lots of pictures, post on your company's social media networks and get everyone amped about the difference that you're making. Make sure and reach out to the volunteer coordinators of the charities as well and thank them; it's always good practice to build relationships. If they're in your area, they likely have a strong connection to the local community and can be a great resource to you in your selling. 
3. Remember to reflect.
   Reflection is one of the most important things that you can do after volunteering (both in professional and personal settings). After the event, do a follow-up meeting with your team and break down how it went. Is this a charity you'd like to work with again? Did your team feel empowered? You will be amazed at how a few brief hours can change your team's attitude and willingness to be active participants in the greater community. It's all too easy to get into a routine and forget that not all people have been given the opportunities or stability that we experience on a daily basis. By giving back for just a short amount of time, you will be making a substantial difference in the lives of those you have helped.

This February, New Home Star launched The GEM (Giving Every Moment) Project to further community outreach efforts in each of the company's sales divisions. We are incredibly excited to begin making our mark on various causes across North America! 

As part of New Home Star's new initiative, Corporate Citizenship Coordinator Keli Kliebhan works to assist sales teams with performing frequent community outreach amongst their greater communities. New Home Star has a goal to exceed 40 different service opportunities across the United States and Canada this year.