The concept of “corporate social responsibility” has flooded the business lexicon in recent years, but the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) has been focused on driving social impact since its founding over 150 years ago.
RBC takes its commitment to community by applying a “more-than-money-approach” to philanthropy. This approach recognizes that financial support alone cannot solve the pressing challenges charitable organizations face today.
RBC empowers one of its greatest resources, its employees and their ideas, to be part of the solution through skills-based volunteering (SBV) programs.
A trusted partner since 2018, Taproot Foundation has worked with RBC to develop and implement 10 skills-based volunteering initiatives, ranging from week-long sessions to three-month projects. These personalized programs are accessible to grantees across all of RBC’s community investment priorities including youth, the environment, and the arts.
In 2021, RBC and Taproot delivered powerful SBV programs inviting more community partners and encouraging employees to connect and serve through the isolation of quarantine. Dedicated RBC employees provided nearly $4M CAD in pro-bono services.
“The network I have been able to communicate with, both internally and externally, is amazing. I now have new friendships, new mentors, and new industry connections. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and look forward to reflection on my experiences as I continue to grow in the organization.” – RBC employee participant
Community partners also expressed why these SBV initiatives matter:
“The expertise of the RBC team has been given in a way that has had a sustainable impact on our organization, in a way, a grant alone cannot achieve.” – Community partner
RBC’s steady commitment to SBV as part of their “more-than-money” approach to social impact represents a best-in-class example for other companies to emulate.
Download this free resource to read more about this unique skills-based volunteering partnership…and learn how SBV can engage your employees while supporting your community.
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Are you interested in developing a skills-based volunteering program for your company? Email us at advisory@taprootfoundation.org.
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