Ten Tips for Developing a Successful Corporate Volunteer Program 1.   Establish objectives Set realistic 1-2 year goals Clearly define and communicate goals Plan for success to be measured 2.   Obtain management support Ensure senior managment and all staff believe in program mission Be able to provide the business case Communicate management-endorsed policy to all employees 3.   Survey the community Determine needs and opportunities for volunteering in the community Define unique skills your company has to meet those needs 4.   Survey employees Find out what co-workers have to offer or are already doing Determine what employees envision for a volunteer program Clarify employees' interest areas 5.   Decide on program function Build program on employee interests Find the right volunteer program model for your company 6.   Establish working relationship with Volunteer Hawaii Volunteer Centers can help you identify opportunities in the community and provide support 7.   Identify program leadership and location Determine location: community relations, public affairs, human resources, communications, PR, consumer affairs? Ensure program leader has excellent communication skills and the ability to work with people at all levels 8.  Create an environment that supports volunteerism Distribute policy to all staff Create a network of support Create visibility for the program Start a recognition program 9.   Establish a budget Plan budget accurately 10. Recruit volunteers only when program is ready  Information provided courtesy of United Way Massachusetts Bay