Make the Holidays Sweeter for Employees by Connecting Them with Their Community

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays…everywhere you go.

For a lot of us this means lengthy to-do lists, congested commutes and throngs of shoppers at every turn. (Or if you're me, a browser full of tabs and a growing sense of panic about shipping deadlines.)

But the holiday season also brings a glimmer of magic we all need–increased hope, generosity, and opportunities to give back.

For employers it’s the perfect time to invest a little extra in your people. Show them their efforts matter. Give them opportunities that make their season a little more joyful. And honestly? It doesn't have to be complicated.

The holidays amplify our desire for belonging. For community. For feeling valued, needed, and part of something bigger than ourselves.

The good news? Giving that to your employees might be easier than you think.

Opportunities to strengthen community ties are everywhere – especially during the most wonderful time of the year. Here are three things you can do:

1. Arrange Opportunities for Employees to Give Back to the Community

Workers don't just want a paycheck anymore—they want purpose. Up to 71% of employees say it's important that their employer supports workplace giving and volunteer efforts. 82% of businesses report that their employees want to participate in corporate-sponsored volunteer events with their peers, and 70% of employees say that companies sponsoring volunteer activities have a more pleasant atmosphere at work.

The impact on employee wellbeing is equally striking. 79% of employees reported lower stress levels due to volunteerism, while 70% of corporate volunteers feel that volunteering boosted employee morale.

Sure, global giving initiatives are great. But often, the most impactful experiences happen right where we live and work. It's one thing to donate money to a national charity. It's quite another to know you helped provide warm clothing and a gift or two for a family down the street.

At Access Development, we organize multiple community giving opportunities, especially this time of year. From collecting and serving meals at the local food bank to hosting onsite blood drives, our team shows up. We've gathered professional attire for those re-entering the workforce, provided warm clothing for families facing winter without proper gear, and brought holiday joy to children through Project Elf with the Christmas Box House.

But the impact goes both ways: the benefits don't just impact those in need. They lift the spirits of everyone who participates. Our volunteer day at the local shelter brings people together across departments who might never otherwise connect—and the energy they bring back to the office is contagious.

Pick one local cause. Make it easy for employees to participate. Then watch what happens when people feel like they're making a real difference together.

2. Help Employees Save Money When They Support Local Businesses

Shopping local isn't just about convenience—it's about strengthening the economy and supporting the neighbors who make our communities what they are. Plus, it just feels good to support the small businesses that give our neighborhoods character.

But here's the reality: no one likes paying full price. Especially during the holidays when shopping lists are a mile long and budgets are stretched thin. Between gifts, groceries, and eating out, expenses add up fast.

This is where employee discount programs shine. And I mean really shine—usage spikes during the holiday season because people genuinely need the savings.

Now, discounts at big online retailers are nice. But here's a stat that might surprise you: even in our increasingly digital world, over 81% of retail spending still happens in physical stores. And get this—80% of consumers' discretionary spending occurs within 20 miles of home.

So yeah, online discounts are the icing on the cake. But local discounts? That's the actual cake.

Hook your employees up with deals at restaurants near the office. The dry cleaner around the corner. The local shops where they're doing their holiday shopping. That's the stuff they'll actually use—and remember.

Check your employee discount program. Are you offering deals at places your employees actually go? If not, it's time to focus on local.

3. Partner With Community Organizations to Provide Employee Perks

As a young dance teacher in one of my first jobs, our studio visited the local children's home every Christmas. We'd spend the afternoon dancing with the kids, sharing a meal, and handing out presents. It cost the studio a few hours and some gift wrap, but the impact on our team? Immeasurable. We'd come back recharged, reminded that our work could matter beyond the studio walls.

The holiday season brings endless opportunities to show your employees some extra love. And you typically don't need to look beyond your own community for solutions. Because real life is local.

When deciding which perks employees will appreciate most, think about what takes something off their plate during the busiest time of year.

Mobile oil changes right in the company parking lot? Yes, please. A barber who comes to the office so employees can get haircuts without leaving? Genius. Holiday gift-wrapping services set up in the break room? Now you're talking.

Look to local businesses and service providers. They're often willing to partner because it's good for their business too. Find quick, simple ways to make your employees' lives a little easier during the busiest season of the year.

Bringing It Home This Holiday Season

Here's what I've learned: we often think we need to go big and bold to make an impact. But the things that usually mean the most? Those hit closest to home. And that's never more true than during the chaotic holiday season.