By Holly MacDonald

Recently, I’ve been volunteering at my daughter’s school through a program that I’ve spearheaded in our school district called Odyssey of the Mind.  I heard about it from another HR Director that I admire a great deal.  As someone who has spent a lot of time in the training field, this is a natural way for me to give back.  I am helping kids develop much needed skills on critical thinking, teamwork, innovation, communication and many others.  I am also supporting teachers and the public school system.  It is also a community-building activity, allowing kids to work with adults who are not their parents nor their teachers.

It reminds me (in that season of giving) that HR professionals have a tremendous opportunity to share their skillls/expertise in many ways to local organizations that may need HR help, but can’t afford it.  Why not consider giving your time and talents in a way that is natural for you?

• Provide selection advice for a volunteer-driven organization
• Develop/share a leadership development program for a not-for-profit that needs it
• Design training on phone etiquette for a telephone support agency
• Partner with a health agency that means the most to your employees and swap some program advice (they can give you health & wellness)
• Host an employee within your department to allow them an HR immersion experience
• Donate your performance appraisal forms to a non-profit that could use some help with feedback

These are ways that we can help those that need it, hone our skill set, build community and generally improve HR practices.  If you have examples or stories to share, why not leave a comment?

Happy Holidays!

Holly MacDonald is an independent consultant with well over 15 years of experience in the learning & development field.  Holly is a bit of a techno-geek and can often be found playing online.  When she steps away from her computer, she spends time outside: hiking, kayaking, gardening and of course walking the dog.  She lives on Saltspring Island and is a leader in the live/work revolution.