By Emma Piercy-Sadler | Featured in Little Rock Soiree's Work Wife Blog, 6/30/2025
Good news: Giving back is on the rise. Annual research from Volunteering and Civic Life in America found more than a quarter of Americans now formally contribute their time to organizations. The collective impact is incredible, reaching nearly 5 million hours and $170 billion in economic value. So, how can we build on this positive momentum, especially when many charities face increased demand for services
As we’ve learned at Heart of Arkansas United Way, it starts by finding our perfect (nonprofit) match. Whether you’re looking to donate your time or establish a giving campaign for your workplace, by asking the questions below, you can narrow in and find a cause that makes you want to swipe right.
What’s your goal? Before diving into a new relationship, you should consider your priorities. What skills do you bring to the table, and what opportunities are you interested in pursuing? It’s important to weigh how certain variables may affect our options, such as the size of our group or our team’s physical abilities. Developing a preliminary list of ideas for accessible projects or non-starters can help guide our search.
Are you on the same page? Signing up for a volunteer shift or launching an employee giving program shouldn’t feel like a blind date. You need to feel confident about where you invest your time and money. Researching an organization’s mission, vision and values is a crucial first step. Seeking verification from a trusted community partner, such as Heart of Arkansas United Way, can also be beneficial.
What kind of commitment do you want? Do you want the maximum flexibility from signing up for a single shift or an annual day of giving? Or do you want to consider something longer term, such as a voluntary monthly paycheck draw? Understanding your availability and resources will set clear expectations and help meet all parties’ needs.
Are you okay with stepping outside our comfort zones? Some volunteer and donor opportunities aren’t widely advertised or don’t exist yet, even at organizations where you already serve. By putting yourself out there and inquiring about unique ways to help, you may uncover new avenues to serve your neighbors or financially support vital causes within your community.
A final piece of advice? Relationships are a two-way street. Everyone — volunteers, donors and nonprofits — must be aligned for a successful match. If you need help finding a cause to love, visit heartaruw.org.
Emma Piercy-Sadler is the director of workplace giving and corporate volunteering at the Heart of Arkansas United Way, a more than 100-year-old organization that mobilizes resources to support well-being, create opportunities for youth, enhance financial security and foster resilience. Contact Emma to get started volunteering today!