Beyond Charity: How Companies are Building Purpose into Their DNA

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – November 18, 2025 – For decades, corporate social responsibility often meant writing a check to a worthy cause. Today, a growing number of companies are moving beyond simple philanthropy, actively engaging employees in hands-on volunteer work. This shift isn't driven solely by altruism, but by a growing recognition that purpose-driven initiatives boost employee morale, attract top talent, and strengthen brand reputation. MATTER, a Minnesota-based global health nonprofit, is at the forefront of this movement, facilitating corporate volunteer programs that are impacting communities nationwide.

The Rise of Strategic Volunteering

MATTER recently hosted its 2nd annual ‘Companies That Matter’ celebration, recognizing corporate partners for their volunteer efforts. Over 12,000 employees from these businesses assembled 166,000 MATTERbox Snack Packs and Hope Kits, directly benefiting individuals and families in 44 states. While the scale of this event is impressive, it's indicative of a much larger trend. Experts agree that today’s workforce, particularly younger generations, actively seek employers who demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility.

“Employees want to work for companies that stand for something,” says one HR executive who partners with MATTER. “Volunteer opportunities provide a way for them to live those values and connect with colleagues in a meaningful way.”

This sentiment is reflected in recent data. A 2024 Deloitte survey found that 91% of respondents believe volunteer opportunities positively impact their work experience and connection to their employer. Furthermore, companies with robust volunteer programs often report higher levels of employee engagement and retention. MATTER’s approach, which provides “easy button solutions” for corporate partners—handling logistics, supplying kits, and offering comprehensive support—has proven particularly popular.

Beyond the Box: Making a Tangible Impact

At the heart of MATTER’s work is the MATTERbox, a kit containing nutritious food and hygiene items, accompanied by a personalized “You Matter” note. The organization doesn’t simply deliver aid; it fosters a sense of human connection. The simplicity of MATTER’s approach, coupled with its focus on both physical needs and emotional well-being, sets it apart.

In 2024 alone, MATTER and its partners packed and distributed nearly 200,000 Hope Kits and Snack Packs through over 9,000 corporate volunteers at 130 packing events nationwide. This represents a significant increase from previous years, demonstrating the growing demand for impactful volunteer experiences. Since 2020, MATTER has provided over 700,000 meals.

“It’s about more than just filling a need,” explains a program manager at one participating company. “It’s about showing people that they are valued and that someone cares. The personalized notes really make a difference.”

MATTER’s financial transparency is also a key factor in its success. The organization boasts a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, the highest possible, and allocates an impressive 96.81% of its expenses directly to its programs. This level of accountability inspires trust among corporate partners and individual donors alike.

The Employee Engagement Factor

Beyond the direct impact on recipients, MATTER’s volunteer programs are yielding tangible benefits for participating companies. Internal surveys conducted at several partner organizations reveal a clear correlation between volunteer participation and employee morale. Employees who volunteer report feeling more connected to their colleagues, more engaged in their work, and more proud of their company’s values.

“We’ve seen a significant boost in employee satisfaction since we started partnering with MATTER,” says a senior executive at a financial services firm. “Our employees are eager to participate in these events, and they come away feeling like they’ve made a real difference.”

One key component of MATTER’s success is its ability to cater to diverse employee interests and schedules. The organization offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from in-person packing events to remote kit assembly and virtual fundraising campaigns. This flexibility ensures that all employees have the opportunity to participate, regardless of their location or availability.

Furthermore, MATTER provides comprehensive training and support for corporate volunteers, empowering them to become effective ambassadors for the organization’s mission. This investment in volunteer development fosters a sense of ownership and pride, strengthening the bond between the company and the community it serves.

As corporate social responsibility continues to evolve, organizations like MATTER are playing a critical role in shaping the future of work. By facilitating meaningful volunteer experiences, they are not only addressing pressing social needs but also creating more engaged, purpose-driven workforces.