How to Build Sustainable Volunteer Programs with a Trust-Based Approach

The most effective volunteer programs do more than check a box — they build trust, deepen connections and create deep value for both nonprofits and employees. A trust-based approach makes that possible — helping companies build programs rooted in meaningful employee experiences, long-term partnerships and lasting impact.

Join Jessie Heckman, Manager of Global Employee Volunteer & Giving at Vanguard, and Angela Parker, CEO & Co-founder of Realized Worth, for a conversation on what it takes to design volunteer programs that truly work — for nonprofits, employees and companies alike.

Drawing on 15+ years of experience helping global companies activate purpose through volunteering, Angela will share how trust-based principles build authentic partnerships and deepen engagement. Jessie will bring those ideas to life through Vanguard’s story — showing how their programs empower employee choice, reduce nonprofit burden and create meaningful community impact. With 110,000 volunteer hours logged in 2024 and 74% of crew participating in community programs, Vanguard’s approach proves that programs built with nonprofits in mind can also energize employees and scale impact.