Inspiring, Engaging, and Empowering Employees through Corporate Volunteer Programs

According to Benevity, a leader in the social impact space, there has been a massive surge in corporate volunteering over the last three years. Companies are realizing that aligning with causes they care about is important to their employees, customers, and beneficiaries. In post-pandemic times, employees have been eager to get back out to serve their communities. Never before have so many companies invested this much into their corporate volunteer and social impact programs — and gained so much in return.

Today’s employees and younger generations are looking for connection, learning, growth, and meaning through their work. With this in mind, companies are creating effective volunteer engagement strategies as part of their CSR programs. These strategies foster a sense of passion, commitment, and connectedness while boosting not just an employee’s productivity but their overall well-being. This mindset paves the way for accepting volunteerism as a force for positive change. In the spirit of that mentality, 365 Connect was born.

In 2020, Teresa Miller and Carlen Haag joined forces to create 365 Connect, a 501c3 in San Diego, with hopes of addressing the critical needs of the community and inspiring a strong sense of community through shared volunteer experiences and cause-related events.

“Corporate volunteerism is one of the pillars of—and essential to—a company’s social responsibility program”, says the Co-Founders. We work with over 100 organizations that are supporting a variety of causes from homelessness, veterans, active military, foster youth, park revitalizations, environmental concerns and so much more. 365 Connect empowers organizations to connect with volunteers and provides the tools organizations need to inspire supporters to take that first action and to keep them engaged long-term. After working with countless causes, 365 Connect knows what it takes to strengthen those powerful relationships and ignite a passion among volunteers to do more good. Take a look at our Year in Review Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_rMF-zqULc&t=2s

All project proposals are custom to the client’s needs and can include:
● Half-Day Projects
● Full Day Projects
● Week of Service
● Youth Service Programs
● Ongoing Volunteer Programs
● CSR Development
● Grant Writing
● Nonprofit Event Management

Corporate volunteering programs are a powerful tool for fostering happier, healthier workplaces while being a force for good! If companies and their employees continue to invest in volunteer engagement programs for social impact, imagine what the future holds!

365 Connect can help make 2024 the best year yet for your employees and your community! CONNECT WITH US: www.365-connect.org
teresa@365-connect.org carlen@365-connect.org 833-365-4663

Some of our Partners in Action!

 

Community outreach and charitable giving is a large part of our culture here at PRAVA Construction. It is our honor to be able to network and learn about new organizations and the ways that PRAVA can continue to serve our community.

Our mission is leadership through service. Our strong commitment to collaboration and open communication on our project sites allows us to help our clients with cost, value, and scheduling so they are able to maximize their resources.

We are engaged with our community through service, leadership, and excellence in business.

• As a General Contractor, we are enabled to assist in the revitalization of our local communities for the betterment of our surrounding neighborhoods. We are a full-service general contractor that specializes in technical commercial/industrial construction projects. Proudly family-owned and operated, we run our business on the same principles on which we have established our family: Integrity, Partnership, Dedication, Fairness, Respect, and good old-fashioned hard work. We provide the personal service and flexibility of a small builder but have the experience and strength of a large contractor.
• Outside of construction, PRAVA’s engagement continues to grow considerably through charity work, volunteering, fundraising, industry affiliations, and diversity. The Prava Team is dedicated to community partnerships throughout the year; including the San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, the Boys & Girls Clubs of North County, Girls Rising, Canine Companions, and the San Diego Blood Blank, to name a few.

February marked a remarkable achievement for us – 20 years of delivering excellence and innovation in the Commercial/Industrial Construction Industry here in San Diego. We are immensely proud of this milestone and grateful for the support that has shaped our success.

PRAVA is participating in several upcoming events!

This March, in honor of women’s history month, we partnered with Girls Rising who provides mentorship and support to young girls, guiding them as they navigate their paths towards success. Their program offers invaluable opportunities for growth and personal development, equipping girls with the skills and confidence they need to reach their full potential!

On April 13th, we are partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of North County for their Great Future’s Gala and Auction at Pechanga Resort, which raises funds for the programs like homework help, sports, arts, music, healthy habits, and helping them to reach their full potential.

In July, we are hosting a blood drive at our office with the San Diego Blood Bank!

Learn more about us at our website: https://pravacsi.com/community-involvement/

NGA helps nonprofits of every size and sector build capacity through expert counsel in fundraising, planning, staffing, and training. Our projects range from campaign planning studies and capital campaigns to strategic planning and executive search.

As a leading regional consulting firm, we are working with 45 nonprofits across California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawai`i. The San Diego staff are partnering with Armed Services YMCA, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Timken Museum of Art, The Winston School, Pacific Ridge School, Brave Trails, and Pacific Clinics.

We are excited to be growing our team with staff who bring new expertise and perspectives to NGA’s proven approach. With a combined 250+ years of professional experience and a track record of success built over 39 years, NGA partners with nonprofits to create lasting impact for them and the communities they serve.

Our regionally based team provides active board and committee leadership to AFP San Diego and are in their 10th year serving on the board of North County Philanthropy Council. As a member of NCPC, NGA values sharing their knowledge through networking with nonprofit professionals, board members, and volunteers along with corporate and community supporters.

To learn more about our us, visit netzelgrigsby.com

 

At Cal State San Marcos our mission is student success. CSUSM is focused on closing educational equity gaps and providing social mobility for the most underserved populations in the region. As an engine of transformative knowledge, our community of dedicated teachers, scholars, and staff holistically advance the academic, social, professional, and personal development of students across the student life cycle through education, innovation, and community partnerships. CSUSM strives to be the first-choice university for first-generation students and future generations.

This mission drives our vision: to support all aspects of success for our students before, during, and after their time with us. We are redefining what it means to be a leader in social mobility. In fact, CSUSM is in the top 1% nationally out of more than 1,400 schools measured in the ninth annual Social Mobility Index (SMI) by the online publication CollegeNET. The SMI rates four-year U.S. colleges and universities “according to how they hold the line on tuition, enroll students from low-income backgrounds, graduate those students into good jobs, and apply their promotional messaging to solve our nation’s social mobility problem.” A high ranking in the report indicates that the university is a sound investment for donors seeking to support institutions that promote social mobility; it represents evidence of results, reputation and transparency and projects future impact.

In concert with social mobility, CSUSM has received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for ten years in a row, a national honor that recognizes the institution’s outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion. CSUSM is recognized as a Carnegie Foundation community engaged institution because of its outward facing programs that provide access to and success through college and into the workforce.

Thursday, April 4, is One CSUSM, a 24-hour social media driven campaign to raise funds for scholarships at Cal State San Marcos.

One CSUSM is an important fundraising event because for many students, financial support from family is not an option as nearly 70% of our students receive financial aid. Scholarships are a vital component to student success, encouraging them to persist to graduation and experience the sense of pride that comes from earning a degree. Our work to fill the gap of unmet need continues as we believe financial need should not derail a determined student from earning their degree.

With more than 100 scholarships to choose from, help us carry the flag for our students on Thursday, April 4, with a gift to your favorite scholarship.

Visit our website: http://www.csusm.edu/onecsusm

NCPC provides a range of professional development and networking opportunities for our University Advancement team. Over the years, our team members have been involved with board and committee leadership and our staff, faculty, and donors have served as featured speakers and panelists at events that bring the community together around important topics and initiatives.

Cal State San Marcos was founded in 1989 and first opened its doors to students in 1990. Today, the university offers more than 70 bachelor’s program offerings, more than 20 master’s programs, 5 credential programs, and a joint doctoral program with UC San Diego. With over 16,000 students, CSUSM is a high-demand, first-choice institution in this region and beyond. We continue to strengthen our partnerships with the community and prepare our students to be the talented workforce needed by local companies.

The university encourages community spectators for our 13 NCAA Division II athletic teams, along with various art and culture events that take place throughout the year. We are committed to building a stronger and more vibrant region by connecting the University to surrounding communities in mutually beneficial ways. CSUSM reaches out to all communities it serves to help address the region’s most critical issues.

 

Puzzle Pieces Marketing (PPM) is a creative and colorful Black-owned, women-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, and veteran-owned marketing agency specializing in nonprofits and mission-driven businesses.

Owned and operated by NCPC Board Member and Past President Angel Mason Broadus, and her wife, Kristine Mason Broadus, Puzzle Pieces Marketing offers Branding, Website Design & Development, Graphic Design, and Copywriting & Messaging services.

Since their founding in 2009, the agency has long been dedicated to amplifying the voice and reach of mission-driven, cause-based, and nonprofit organizations that contribute tangible positive change to the community.

With roots firmly planted in San Diego, it’s their passion to support community growth. From Board President to Board Member to Committee Chair and Volunteer, the positions they represent in our community are as diverse as their team and the organizations they take pride in serving. They offer the advantage of their community involvement experience and perspective as a minority owned small business. Their unique perspectives help build brands that speak to their audiences in a more impactful way.

They’re proud to have worked and are currently working with incredible people on projects with other NCPC members including:

• Junior Achievement of San Diego County – Website Redesign & Development
• Community Resource Center – Fundraising Campaigns
• Casa Cornelia Law Center – Website Redesign & Development
• Resounding Joy – Website Redesign & Development
• Accessity – Website Redesign & Development
• NCAAWA – Branding & Marketing

Current Projects with NCPC Members

• MAAC
• San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

To see more of their work visit https://puzzlepiecesmarketing.com/our-work/

In the spirit of giving back and uplifting the lives of people in our community, they offer four annual scholarships to financially assist minority and LGBTQ+ graduating high school seniors. As a women and LGBTQ+ owned business, providing opportunities and supporting BIPOC female and LGBTQ+ youth is important for them.

https://puzzlepiecesmarketing.com/scholarships/

Visit their website to learn more about Puzzle Pieces Marketing.

 

https://puzzlepiecesmarketing.com.

 

MP Consulting services encompass strategic planning, retreat facilitation, comprehensive campaign consulting and strengthening Board engagement. At MP Consulting, our purpose is to be your trusted advisor and help build a strong nonprofit Board and staff to master the art of Philanthropy.

Our promise is to creatively inspire your Board to develop and implement strategies to increase resources and ensure your organization’s leadership and investors are working together.

MP Consulting will listen to what is important to you – assess and apply your strengths – recommend achievable approaches – and be with you through implementation.

As President of MP Consulting, Marianne Pekala, CFRE has more than 20 plus years as a development professional, consultant, educator, and implementer.

Marianne is a BoardSource Certified Board Trainer and a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE). Since 1999, she has proudly served on the Board of Directors of North County Philanthropy Council (NCPC) and is currently chairing its Strategic Planning Committee. Marianne has also served on the Boards of the Pat Tillman Foundation, HD South, and Gilbert Leadership.

MP Consulting has worked with local and national nonprofits with all size budgets to help them become stronger, resilient sustainable organizations. Marianne cares about your philanthropy and how it impacts your nonprofit. You can reach Marianne at https://www.mpekalaconsulting.com/.

 

As a premier member of the North County Philanthropy Council (NCPC), Community Resource Center is thrilled to share news about its latest updates that reflect our shared commitment with NCPC to uplift our community.

Our Ongoing Mission:

For 45 years, CRC has been serving our North County neighbors in need, providing food, shelter and housing assistance, counseling, and vital services to those at risk of homelessness, including survivors of domestic violence. Reaching more than 6,400 individuals every year, our mission is to help our neighbors create paths to healthy food, stable homes and safe relationships.

What’s New at CRC:

• Capital Campaign for Expansion: Our $10.5 million capital campaign aims to create a healing-centered campus, enhancing our capacity to serve those experiencing hunger, homelessness or trauma in a setting that upholds their dignity. Discover more about our plans in the recent San Diego Union-Tribune article and stay tuned for how you can contribute to building One Community • One Heart.
• New Trauma Recovery Center: Thanks to grants from the Lucky Duck Foundation, Greathouse Family Foundation and the State of California, we established a Trauma Recovery Center in Carlsbad. This center will provide holistic care to a diverse clientele, including domestic violence survivors and individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges.
• New Food & Nutrition Programs: As part of our commitment to expanding our Food & Nutrition Program’s reach and accessibility, we are excited to introduce two new food program initiatives to bring sustenance to where it’s most needed in the community.
  • Mobile Food Distribution Truck: This year, we’re planning to launch a mobile food delivery truck, enabling us to distribute fresh, nutritious food directly to various locations.
  • Project Dash Food Deliveries: In collaboration with DoorDash, we started a specialized home delivery program to help make sure that everyone, regardless of mobility or transportation barriers, has access to the food resources they need.

To learn more, watch our interview on CBS8 Working for Our Community series. Thank you to our partners at SDG&E for making it possible for us to find effective, inclusive ways to serve and support our community’s nutritional needs.

Get Involved with CRC:

We invite you to participate in our upcoming events and initiatives:

• CRC Tour: Join us for a tour of our Food & Nutrition Center, the next one is on Thursday, February 15, at 4:00 p.m. at our Encinitas location. Register here for this free tour
• Raising Awareness this February: A staggering 1 in 3 teens face dating abuse in the U.S. Help educate and empower youth about teen dating abuse this month during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Learn more
• CRC Tea Fundraiser: Join us for our 29^th Annual CRC Tea on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Fairbanks Ranch Country Club. Details about tickets and how you can contribute to our silent auction or raffle are available at org/Tea.
• Partnerships: Our annual partnerships are a wonderful opportunity for sustained visibility and engagement with our North County community. Partners are recognized year-round in CRC’s communications and events. Learn more

For more information about our initiatives, capital campaign, and how you can get involved with Community Resource Center, please visit our website at www.crcncc.org.

For 75 years, San Diego Audubon has been defending our region’s birds, unique biodiversity, and threatened habitats through advocacy, education, and restoration.

With the help of their members, volunteers, donors, and community partners, they are working to protect endangered species like the California Least Tern and the Light-Footed Ridgway’s Rail; restore the natural wetlands of Mission Bay to ensure cleaner water, greater climate resiliency, and improved public access along the bayfront; preserve natural spaces at their two wildlife preserves for the plants and wildlife who call them home, and the people who love to visit; and inspire and educate the next generation of environmental stewards.

There are many ways for you to get involved with San Diego Audubon! Visit them at Anstine-Audubon Nature Preserve in Vista or at Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary in Lakeside. Sign up for their email list. Become a member (there are some great perks!). Learn more at sandiegoaudubon.org.

February 21 – 25 is the 2024 San Diego Bird Festival, an opportunity for bird lovers from all backgrounds to celebrate these special animals. The San Diego Bird Festival will feature keynote speakers Christian Cooper, Julia Zarankin, and Tiana Williams-Claussen along with hands-on workshops, interactive art displays, bilingual programming, and, of course, more opportunities for birdwatching than we can count! Learn more HERE.

MyPoint Credit Union proudly stands as a member of the North County Philanthropy Council and is dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities. Guided by the principles of knowledge, support, and inclusivity, MyPoint believes in the transformative power of education.

With an unwavering dedication to financial literacy, MyPoint has conducted over 800 workshops, imparting essential skills in budgeting, credit management, and savings. The credit union’s bilingual workshops break language barriers, ensuring that everyone has access to crucial financial understanding.

In addition to these workshops, MyPoint extends its support to more than 50 organizations whose missions align with its values. This collaborative effort reflects the essence of the Credit Union motto, “people helping people.” MyPoint’s significant contributions to community well-being are evident in its active involvement and support.

As a proud member of the North County Philanthropy Council and the recipient of the 2023 Corporate Philanthropy Award, MyPoint’s commitment to positive change is recognized. However, the credit union acknowledges this as a renewed call to continue efforts with humility, hand in hand with the communities served.

We’re proud to be a part of San Diego, full of one-of-a-kind communities and diverse and passionate doers. At MyPoint Credit Union, we want to help these doers – individuals, families, local businesses, and everyone in-between – do more of the things they love in the city they call home. For over 75 years, we’ve been helping our members make the most out of their finances so they can live life on their own terms. Life may be short, but it should be awesome, and that’s why we’re focused on helping our members get the most out of their lives.

Connect with MyPoint Credit Union:

mypointcu.com

Adriana Brunner, VP of Community and BD.
abrunner@mypointcu.com

Cox offers affordable internet and Wi-Fi program for eligible K-12 households

Low-income households with children in grades K-12 that need help getting connected to the internet at home can take advantage of an affordable internet program through Cox Communications.

Cox’s Connect2Compete program helps families get and stay connected by offering home Wi-Fi for $9.95 a month so their children have the technology tools they need for their education.

Access to technology at home is critical to the quality of a student’s education, yet many students in America lack internet access. That’s why Cox Communications is working to provide opportunities for families and students by offering low-cost internet to qualified households through its Connect2Compete program.

• 1/3 of households with children ages 6 to 17 do not have a high-speed internet connection at home.
• 25% of teens are often unable to complete homework assignments due to unreliable computer or internet access.
• 91% of Cox Connect2Compete enrolled parents agree low-cost internet service at home gives children a leg up for high school graduation.
• 95% of parents enrolled in Cox Connect2Compete reported that the internet has improved their communication with their child’s school.

To learn more about Cox’s Connect2Compete options, visit cox.com/digitalequity.