Episode 114 Corporate Volunteer Programs and How Your Nonprofit with Sandra Torre

Episode 114 Corporate Volunteer Programs and How Your Nonprofit with Sandra Torre

How One Agency is Making a Big IMPACT Through Corporate Volunteerism

A conversation with Sandra Torre, President & CFO of LAVIDGE
🎙 As featured on the Modern Nonprofit Podcast powered by The Charity CFO

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Hey nonprofit friends, welcome back! In this episode of the Modern Nonprofit Podcast, host Tasha Anderson sits down with Sandra Torre, the President and CFO of LAVIDGE, to explore how her company built an award-winning corporate giving initiative called IMPACT—and how it's changing lives, not just in the community but within the company as well.

From Advertising to Action: How IMPACT Began

LAVIDGE, a creative advertising agency based in Phoenix, has long been known for its community support. But when the company transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), leadership knew it was time to create a hands-on program for employees to give back—beyond monetary donations. That vision became IMPACT, a structured, intentional way for employees to volunteer during work hours.

What makes it unique? IMPACT is not just a "feel-good" perk. It's a strategically designed initiative with a formal mission, internal policies, and monthly service opportunities. “Having a policy gave employees permission to participate without guilt,” Sandra explains. “Even as the CFO, I wanted them to know it’s OK to take time out of the workday to give back.”

How It Works: A Culture of Service and Flexibility

Each month (sometimes more!), LAVIDGE hosts volunteer events ranging from helping at food banks to cuddling rescued pot-bellied pigs. Yes, pigs. “That one’s a favorite,” Sandra laughs.

Employees can volunteer up to 16 paid hours per year. Events are coordinated internally, with opportunities shared through Outlook calendar invites. Employees RSVP, show up, and make a difference—together.

Participation isn’t mandated, but it’s strongly encouraged. “It’s part of our culture. We track participation, include it in performance reviews, and give lots of lead time so people can plan ahead,” Sandra says.

Impact Beyond the Numbers

The program isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about building trust, boosting morale, and improving retention. “When people volunteer, it grounds them. It helps put work challenges into perspective,” Sandra notes.

For a remote-first company, it also brings people together. “You often only talk to coworkers you need something from,” she explains. “But through IMPACT, people from different departments bond and collaborate in new ways.”

The ROI of Giving Back

With 65 employees, LAVIDGE logs between 300–500 volunteer hours a year. Sandra, ever the finance leader, confirms that this investment pays off. “We see it in morale, in utilization rates, in job satisfaction,” she says. “We’ve even surveyed employees about their experience, and it continues to be a beloved part of our culture.”

And she’s not doing it alone. While Sandra still oversees the program, most of her time is spent coordinating and communicating—about five hours a month. Employees also suggest causes they care about, which helps keep the events relevant and diverse.

Advice for Other Businesses (and Nonprofits, Too)

Sandra encourages businesses to start small, gauge employee interest, and make it easy. “Give people permission to step away from their desks. Keep it during work hours. Provide structure—don’t just say, ‘Go volunteer,’” she says.

And for nonprofits? “Post your needs on volunteer hubs and LinkedIn. Make it easy for companies like ours to find you,” she adds. “We want to help—we just need to know how.”

Final Thoughts

If you're a business leader thinking about launching a volunteer initiative, this episode is a must-listen. If you're a nonprofit hoping to deepen corporate partnerships, it's filled with actionable advice. And if you're just someone who believes in the power of giving back, Sandra’s story will inspire you to take the next step.

You can follow Sandra and LAVIDGE’s volunteer efforts on LAVIDGE.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.

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💡 Like what you heard? Share this episode with a colleague, your company’s HR team, or your favorite nonprofit. Let’s spread the IMPACT.