Corporate volunteering in Italy evolves into structured business practice

Corporate volunteering in Italy is transitioning from sporadic individual initiatives to a structured practice integrated into corporate culture and human resources policies. This trend is highlighted by research from Fondazione Sodalitas and the University of Macerata, which analyzed 31 interviews and 21 case studies. The study found that 18 of the 21 companies reviewed had formalized their commitment through internal policies, utilizing both operational support and professional skill-sharing.

Beyond community impact, the research indicates that corporate volunteering strengthens internal relations by reducing hierarchies, fostering collaboration across different functions, and enhancing the sense of belonging among employees. It also serves as a tool for integration and onboarding.

In a practical application of these trends, BNP Paribas Cardif in Italy organized its ‘Volunteering Week,’ involving 200 employees in seven projects alongside Fondazione Francesca Rava. These initiatives included educational workshops for young detainees at the Cesare Beccaria Juvenile Detention Institute and maintenance of educational farms to support children and families in vulnerable social conditions.