As a leader in your workplace, you know how critical it is to uplift your Employee Resource Groups (ERGs); these spaces are where employees organize around a shared identity. Creating a positive environment where ERGs can thrive is important for employee morale, retention, and recruitment. It’s not just about allowing these groups to have the space and time they need to form — your company’s CSR and employee engagement efforts should actively engage these groups in meaningful campaigns and causes.
Among the most active and impactful Employee Resource Groups are women’s ERGs — groups formed to champion women’s personal and professional growth within the workplace. Beyond internal efforts, these groups hold powerful potential to create real change outside of your company.
One of the most rewarding ways a women’s ERG can extend its reach is by organizing a volunteer event with a nonprofit that supports women and girls. When a women’s ERG chooses to connect with a nonprofit, they’re not just donating time — they’re building bridges. These events can amplify the mission of critical nonprofits while giving ERG members a tangible way to learn, donate, and make a difference. And when companies support these efforts, they send a message that action matters as much as intention.
With Mother’s Day approaching, it’s a great time to connect with the women’s ERG at your workplace and empower them to make a meaningful impact at work. Whether you’re a CSR leader, a leader of your workplace’s women’s ERG, or looking to make an impact for women and girls, you can make a difference at work — to celebrate Mother’s Day or at any other time of year.
The power of volunteering
Volunteer events led by women’s ERGs can have a ripple effect across an organization. They boost employee morale, offer new perspectives, and bring people together in ways that go beyond job titles or departments. They give employees a break from the day-to-day and offer a chance to do something with immediate, visible impact.
These events not only elevate the mission of your chosen nonprofit — they also give ERG members a tangible way to learn, give back, and make a real difference, all while demonstrating your company’s values in action. From hosting a film screening to organizing a walk fundraiser, volunteering becomes a powerful team-building experience for your women’s ERG.
By fostering camaraderie and building new relationships, these moments reconnect ERG members with a deeper sense of purpose in and outside of work. You can also promote the opportunity across your company, making it easy for everyone to join in. Afterward, celebrate your accomplishments by sharing photos, reflections, and results in your CSR reporting to keep the momentum going.
Host our turnkey virtual event, Elevate Her
Looking for an event idea you can implement with just a few days’ notice? Host a watch party of our Elevate Her: Empower, Inspire, Achieve on-demand virtual event.
In a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and action, this event highlights stories of women who are transforming their communities and creating lasting change. During the recording, you’ll hear from two inspiring speakers at International Rescue Committee, Inc. and Operation Smile. They’ll share firsthand accounts of their impactful work supporting women and ways you can be part of their mission.
The accompanying toolkit includes the Elevate Her video, sample messages, and several activities to make it easy to host your own educational event. With the flexibility of the toolkit, you can plan your event at a time that works best for your ERG and your community.
Impactful events for your women’s ERG
Looking for more turnkey events to host with your ERG? A great place to start is our Employee Giving Hub, specifically our Employee Engagement Opportunities and Ideas and Support for ERGs resources, where you’ll find charity-led activities like assembling care packages, mentoring young women, and hosting panel discussions. A few to host with your women’s ERG:
- From Crisis to Resilience | Mercy Corps — Experience real-world decision-making scenarios focused on women in Nepal. Email [email protected] to learn more!
- Madan Sara | FINCA International — Host a film screening about women’s economic importance in Haiti’s economy and invite FINCA International to lead a discussion.
- Evelyn’s Story | Oxfam America — Immerse your team in a virtual reality experience exploring the global water crisis and its effect on women and girls.
- However Long the Night | Tostan — Kick off a book club centered on women’s empowerment with “However Long the Night” by Aimee Molloy. This story centers Tostan’s founder and the organization’s work fighting for women and girls across Africa.
Making an impact for women and girls at work
When your women’s ERG comes together to volunteer, it’s more than just an event: it’s a statement of your values. It shows that your company is committed not just to internal growth, but to creating a meaningful impact in the world. These moments build stronger teams, foster a sense of purpose, and remind us of the power of collective action.
And if you missed the chance to host something around Mother’s Day, don’t worry — there are plenty of meaningful days and causes to connect with throughout the year. Keep an eye on upcoming observance dates and explore our Employee Giving Hub for nonprofit resources and events that align with your ERG’s mission. There’s always another chance to show up, support, and lead with purpose.
Looking to foster a deeper connection? Global Impact works with leading international charities working on uplifting women and girls around the world. Reach out to us to get connected with a leading charity that fits your company’s CSR goals and your ERG’s mission.
