Corporate Social Responsibility in Action

How Corporate Volunteering in February Helped Fight Hygiene Poverty

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is more than a statement on a website or a line in an annual report. At its best, it’s a lived commitment – one that strengthens communities while deepening purpose within organizations.

This February, we saw Corporate Social Responsibility in action.

178 volunteers
13 corporate groups
152,802 hygiene items packaged

That’s 152,802 essentials that will go directly to local schools and community partners – ensuring students and families have access to the basics many of us take for granted.

But the impact goes beyond the numbers.

Why Corporate Involvement Matters in the Fight Against Hygiene Poverty

Hygiene poverty affects attendance, confidence, workforce readiness, and mental health. When students lack access to soap, deodorant, shampoo, or feminine hygiene products, it doesn’t just impact cleanliness – it impacts dignity.

Corporate volunteerism gives companies a tangible way to address this critical need while aligning with Corporate Social Responsibility goals focused on:

Community investment
Employee engagement
Health equity
Education support
Workplace dignity

And often, the impact starts closer to home than companies expect.

“When we first started volunteering for Giving the Basics, it opened our eyes to our own team members. Shortly after, we started offering the basics to our team and we were shocked how often there was a need to replenish. Giving team members pride and dignity was very meaningful.”

Transforming Workplace Culture

Corporate Social Responsibility doesn’t just change external communities. It can transform workplace culture.

Today’s workforce – particularly emerging professionals – increasingly chooses employers based on purpose and values alignment. Corporate volunteer programs that address tangible, local needs like hygiene poverty:

Increase employee morale
Strengthen cross-department relationships
Boost retention
Reinforce company mission
Build pride in the workplace

When employees see their company actively restoring dignity in the community, it fosters loyalty and shared purpose.

That’s not just good Corporate Social Responsibility. That’s good business.

The Real Stories Behind the Service

Volunteering often becomes personal. Many corporate team members in February shared that this issue resonates deeply with their own experiences.

From Harrah’s KC

“I can’t imagine the sadness of a child in school who is being made fun of and bullied simply because of their smell. I hope that the soap we have prepared will help at least one child to not feel that pain and rejection. For just that one child – that time and effort was worth it.”

“My daughter’s teacher has to remind the class about hygiene because tween kids can smell if not maintaining it. I can’t imagine how hard it would be as a kid hearing those reminders knowing there’s no way to remedy it.”

From Devoted Health

“I have known many people without the basics and it affects them deeply socially which ripples out into the rest of life. I remember a girl on my bus who never had the basics or anyone to sit with.”

“As a retired 8th grade teacher, I’ve purchased hygiene products my entire career for students. THANK YOU for doing this.”

From KU Health Systems

“I was once a kid whose family did not always have the basics. While the experience was tough, it impacted my career of being a social worker to help others experiencing the same. I remember being bullied, made fun of, being hungry and sometimes sick. Being able to volunteer today and help others gives me so much joy because we all are worthy and deserve being seen, respected, heard, loved and having the basics.”

“I have been one that was in need! I know what it’s like to feel like you have to choose toiletries or food/rent.”

These aren’t abstract issues. Hygiene poverty is personal – and corporate volunteers are often closer to the experience than they realize.

How Corporate Groups Can Get Involved

Volunteer Packaging EventsBring your team onsite to package hygiene kits that go directly to local schools and partners. It’s high-energy, hands-on, and measurable. Sign Up Here.
Participate in Spring ShowersOur annual Spring Showers Hygiene Drive invites companies to rally employees around a shared goal of providing essential items to local students. It’s a simple, engaging way to activate your Corporate Social Responsibility strategy during April – with built-in resources, team tracking, and measurable impact.Learn more about Spring Showers
Host a Product DriveMobilize employees to collect essential items like deodorant, shampoo, soap, and feminine hygiene products. Learn More.
Get Involved in an EventGiving the Basics offers multiple events throughout the year for your team to work together to support families and students in need. From golf tournaments to volunteer competitions, there are multiple ways to make a difference. Learn More.
Offer Workplace Hygiene SupportAs some corporate partners discovered, hygiene insecurity can impact employees, too. Companies can integrate internal hygiene access as part of employee wellness initiatives.