Corporate volunteering is often seen as something nice to do, but evidence shows it plays a direct and measurable role in strengthening businesses, developing talent, and supporting future economic growth. This session explores how strategic volunteering, particularly through work with schools and youth development, creates a stronger labour market, boosts staff skills, improves team performance, and enhances public reputation through innovation.
The event will offer practical insights from Leicestershire Cares’ education and community programmes, supported by real case studies from local businesses and opportunities for delegates to reflect on how volunteering could support their own workforce development and business productivity.
What’s covered / what will attendees learn?
• Networking Lunch
- Understand how corporate volunteering contributes to local economic growth through skills development, workforce preparation, and strengthened social capital.
- Recognise the business benefits including improved staff skills, team cohesion, leadership development, enhanced public image, and fostering a culture of innovation.
- Learn how volunteering in schools helps upskill young people and build a future-ready workforce.
Who should attend?
- SMEs and start-ups
- HR leads
- CSR professionals
- Community engagement teams
What will attendees gain?
- Identify innovative and practical ways SMEs and start-ups can embed meaningful volunteering into their business strategy.
- Connect with other local organisations committed to linking business growth with community impact.
- Recognise the personal benefits of volunteering.
- Connections with peers/experts.
- Map volunteering opportunities that align with internal skill development needs.
Who is delivering the session?
Bella Emmerson - Education Project Development Officer, Leicestershire Cares
Bella leads the Education project at Leicestershire Cares, delivering impactful employability events in mainstream schools and alternative provisions across Leicester and Leicestershire. Working closely with local business volunteers, she helps connect young people with the world of work. Bella also leads on business communications within the charity, building strong relationships with employers to support meaningful engagement with education and community.
Ross Cox – Altogether Now Project Manager, Leicestershire Cares
Ross manages the Altogether Now project, supporting SEND young people into employment, education, or training while helping them develop essential soft skills. He works closely with local employers and community groups to create meaningful volunteering and networking opportunities. Ross also specialises in corporate business relationships within the charity, building and maintaining strong partnerships with both new and existing members.