Workplace giving allows employees to make donations to non-profits directly from their payroll. Employees have the option to make a one-time gift or an ongoing pledge throughout the year. Employees are able to donate conveniently through payroll deduction. You may have had the opportunity to participate in one of these giving campaigns if you work for the state, federal government, county, city, or a corporation.

There are many benefits to both employees and charities participating in these campaigns. Many employers offer matching gift programs, which can double or triple an employees’ contribution to make an even greater impact.

APCF is gearing up for its busiest season of the year, the season for workplace giving campaigns. Below are 5 tips for employees who donate or want to start donating through workplace giving campaigns.

1. Find a cause you are passionate about.
Before participating in your employer’s workplace giving campaign, reflect on the issues you are passionate about and want to support. You can designate your donation to a specific charity.

2. Determine how much you can afford to give.
Review your personal finances and set your giving goals.

3. Learn more about the participating charities.
Research the charities you would like to support and learn more about their mission, history, programs, and population served. Donors can be confident that their donations and pledges are going to a charity that has been pre-screened and meets certain standards of management and responsibility.

4. Ask your employer if they have a matching gift program.
Many companies match employee contributions doubling or even tripling an employee's gift. Through your employer's matching gift program, your donation has an even greater impact.

5. Stay in touch with the charity.
Many campaigns give donors the option of receiving a letter of acknowledgment directly from the charity. By staying in touch with the charity through their website, newsletter, or mailings, you can find out how your donations were put to use and the successes and accomplishments of the charity throughout the year.

Ask about your employer's workplace giving program or learn more about how to start a program at your place of work by calling (213) 624-6400 ext. 2. Click here for a list of the workplace giving campaigns APCF is currently participating in.