Give and Get Y

“What kind of resident activities are you interested in?”

The question was posed to a group of Gen Y’ers – 20 somethings that had agreed to sit live and unplugged for an audience late last year. In addition to community mixers, the group, showed enthusiastic support for charitable events. When pressed further with, “If the community signed up for an area run/walk or other charitable activity you would participate?” they not only said they would, but also indicated they would help plan it.

A 2007 Time Magazine article “What Gen Y Really Wants”, indicates Generation Y's search for meaning makes support for volunteering among the benefits it values most. The article referenced a Deloitte survey that revealed that more than half of workers in their 20’s prefer employment at companies that provide volunteer opportunities.

It makes sense then that Millenials will respond favorably to activities where they can get involved and make a difference. Make sure to include charitable functions/events in your retention plan this year. In addition, marketing should reveal your company’s philanthropic efforts as an appeal to the target’s values. Let them know what you stand for. Tell them about your “Soul brand”.