Engage Your Employees With The Arts

By Nicole R. Smith 

As Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) becomes more and more prevalent with larger companies like Target, Chase Bank, Disney World and Office Depot moving the needle in the community, it has encouraged many businesses large and small to consider doing the same. Often the food pantries, serving the homeless or anything the United Way or Habitat for Humanity does is top of mind. However, if you are passionate about the transformative power of the arts…consider looking to your nearest cultural arts organization as a way to give back. 

Many cultural organizations such performing arts theaters, dance and music organizations,  botanical gardens and museums, large and small are overlooked as an option for companies to donate their time to. The truth is, there are many volunteer opportunities at these organizations that are vital to our society. Not to mention, it is a wonderful way to see the funds donated to the organization in action. Here are a few examples. 

Festivals: Miami has a multitude of festivals. Many of them are looking for volunteers to help the event run smoothly. 

Performances: Do some of your employees want to team up and provide ushers and greeters for arts events? It’s a fun way to empower team building. 

Education: A cultural organization is a fabulous way to combine your love for arts and arts education. There is nothing like seeing children learn life lessons through the dance, a stage play, a musical or classical music concert. Additionally, many zoos, museums and gardens have an educational component to their organization that works closely with the community that you may be able to help with. 

Concerts: Many cultural organizations offer free concerts to the community and may need a few extra hands to greet the crowds on occasion. 

Special Events: Some cultural venues host landmark events such as graduation and networkers. Helping to connect families to a worthy cause or witnessing first-hand families exploding in celebration when their loved one crosses the stage reminds you of the importance of the achievement…and this time, you had a part in it. 

Keep in mind, no two organizations are alike so some may have varying opportunities, but at the end of the day, if it is a non-profit organization, they can use the help and will be glad to have it. So the next time you are looking for somewhere to volunteer, either as a group or it is your individual choice, check your local cultural arts organizations to inquire about what type of help they may need. 

 If you aren’t sure what organizations are in your community, look for resources like the Arts and Business Council in your area that are well connected and can help you find a cultural organization that fits your passion. You never know the gem you may uncover that can leave your life transformed as well.

If you live in the Miami area, consider the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts for your next volunteer outing. Click here for more information on how your company can help transform our community through the performing arts. 

Nicole R. Smith is an Author, Motivational Speaker, Podcast Host, Blogger, Passionate Community Engagement Professional. She is Manager of Volunteers and Interns for the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami. Reach her at nsmith@arshtcenter.org or www.arshtcener.org/volunteer