Workplace Giving

It's always nice to know the money you donate to charities gets to the person in need. However the hurdle of finding low cost resources to run fundraisers can be a time consuming and expensive process for most not-for-profit organisations.

Workplace Giving is a great solution for the donor and the charity, with the chance for charities to receive up to four times more than they would through traditional donations.

By making regular donations to charities through your employer's payroll system, you can know your money is making a big difference to those supported by the charity.

Employees are able to nominate the amount they would like to give from their pre-tax salary each month. Even if it is a couple of dollars, it all adds up when a substantial amount of employees participate.

How Charities Benefit

The donations can be quite significant once a number of employees take part. Because there is no cost to the charity, this money can go straight to where it is needed. In Ardoch's case it could give a child breakfast for a month, a new pair of school shoes, or even support a project worker at a school. This process takes out any costs relating to the organisation of events, raffles and other time consuming fundraising opportunities.

The regularity of the donations also allows the charity to have advanced knowledge of income, giving them the opportunity to plan for future programs and support activities.

How Business's Benefit

Once it is set up there is very little administrative commitment to Workplace Giving.

Charities develop strong relationships with the company and can invite staff to events and include them in activities that build office morale. Employer's can also arrange for staff to volunteer to assist the charity which also helps build teamwork and leadership skills that can be brought back into the office.

How Employee's Benefit

The employee can choose the amount they feel comfortable with donating and know that their money is being used to directly assist those in need.

In a benefit for everyone, the donation is made pre-tax, so it costs the employee less than what the charity receives. For example if you give a pre-tax per pay donation of $10, it will only end up costing you approximately $5.65, while the charity still obtains the full amount.

Workplace Giving also eliminates the need to collect, keep and claim receipts because you get an immediate, guaranteed tax deduction because it is processed through your pay.

It benefits employers, employees and charities – but most importantly it benefits those who need the most support. It takes a little bit of effort to make a big difference, and that is why Workplace Giving is the best way your company can get involved in the community.

How to get started!

If you would like your business to start Workplace Giving, ask your HR or payroll staff if it is possible and make sure you outline the great benefits for all involved.

Once you have approval, contact Ardoch Youth Foundation to set up your Workplace Giving account.

Then you can sit back and enjoy the updates on how your contribution is helping disadvantaged children and families in the community!

If you need further information on Workplace Giving, please contact Ardoch by emailing ashlea.milner@ardoch.asn.au or find more at www.australiancharitiesfund.org.au.

If your workplace does not want to be involved, you can still make regular donations by becoming a Friend of Ardoch