How is pro bono different from traditional volunteering?
Traditional volunteering, such as a beach cleanup or serving at a soup kitchen, typically addresses the need for “extra hands” – a nonprofit needs people to help deliver a program. Pro bono service, however, uses specific professional skills to focus on addressing an organization’s internal strategic and infrastructure needs (often referred to as capacity building). For example, an HR professional could engage in traditional volunteer opportunity by planting a community garden, but could also provide pro bono professional services by helping an organization draft an employee handbook. Explore the Spectrum of Community Engagement.
How do you measure the value of pro bono service?
The best way to measure the value is to use the hourly rate of the professionals involved in service. The current average hourly rate for pro bono service, as determined in partnership with CECP, is $150.
How do I take my existing pro bono program to the next level?
No matter where you are in implementing your pro bono strategy, there is always an opportunity to take your impact further. We’d be happy to share our thoughts on how to expand or improve your program. Contact us for more information. Please also visit our Resources for helpful materials and tools.
How do I launch a pro bono program at my company?
Get in touch! Whether you’re a corporate social responsibility professional, a talent development leader, or any other employee, we’d be happy to help you think through the best next steps to bring pro bono service to your company. We can share more about our services or introduce you to resources that will help put you on the right path.
How can pro bono develop talent at my company?
Our programs provide unparalleled professional development opportunities for employees by integrating pro bono into a company’s talent development strategy. We can help your company incorporate its learning and development goals into a pro bono program that develops employees in areas like client management, problem-solving, and collaboration. To see an example of how pro bono can be a powerful experiential learning opportunity, read this interview with talent development experts.
What’s the business case for pro bono service?
One of the first steps to establishing a pro bono service initiative at your company is getting buy-in from key stakeholders. Luckily, the case for pro bono is well-documented. Not only can pro bono drive social impact, it’s also great for business. Pro bono service programs can help attract and develop talent, boost your company’s reputation, drive innovation, and much more. To get an in-depth look at how pro bono can help your business, check out our Business Value Flashcards.
What does a corporate pro bono program look like in action?
Taproot Advisory Services team designs and develops pro bono programs that meet our clients where they are. All of our program models are customizable, allowing companies to utilize the unique skillsets of their employee. A program might engage employees in a half-day consulting session or a full-day workshop that ends with the development of a deliverable. Or in some cases employees engage in multi-week strategy projects or long-term placements. We will work with you to determine the best option for your company depending on your business and social impact goals. To see examples of our programs, check out our most recent case studies.
