Association Director of the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO), Heather Lishman, on the importance of supporting charitable activities in organisations.
For organisations seeking to build strong cultures and engaged teams, supporting charitable activities can be a powerful lever. Beyond the obvious benefit to the chosen cause, charitable partnerships create opportunities for employees to connect with something meaningful, reinforcing values and shaping a more purposeful workplace.
The alignment of a charity with an organisation’s culture and values is critical. When the cause reflects what the business stands for – whether that’s community, sustainability, education, or wellbeing – employees are more likely to feel authentic pride in their involvement. This sense of alignment creates a bridge between corporate purpose and individual motivation, cultivating morale and reinforcing the organisation’s identity.
Crucially, effective charitable engagement extends beyond fundraising. While donations are important, many employees derive greater satisfaction from hands-on involvement – volunteering, mentoring, or contributing their professional skills to a cause. These experiences not only deepen the connection to the charity but also foster teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving within the organisation. Employees see their impact first-hand, which can be more energising and rewarding than financial support alone.
From a cultural perspective, charitable activity can act as a catalyst for collaboration and inclusion. Colleagues at different levels of the business come together with a shared goal, breaking down silos and creating stronger interpersonal bonds. This shared sense of purpose often translates into improved morale and motivation in day-to-day work. ABPCO actively champions neurodiversity in events, recognising the importance of inclusivity and different ways of thinking.
The association has chosen Mind Over Mountains as its charity partner, reflecting its commitment to wellbeing, balance, and resilience – and its values of sharing, community, and belonging – all of which are central to its members and the wider events industry. Together, these commitments reinforce ABPCO’s culture of care, purpose, and progress, demonstrating how charity partnerships can strengthen both organisations and the communities they serve.
Abpco.org | Mindovermountains.org.uk