The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates that as much as 80% of the global workforce is composed of “deskless workers” – individuals whose roles require them to operate away from traditional office environments.

In today’s workplace, companies are increasingly embracing purpose-driven cultures by offering volunteer opportunities and charitable giving programs. But too often, deskless workers are left out of the equation. For employees who frequently feel disconnected from headquarters or broader company culture, providing meaningful opportunities to give back can foster a sense of pride, belonging and shared purpose.

These employees typically work on fixed schedules, earn hourly wages, and lack access to conventional workplace systems and digital tools.  Without intentional design, engagement efforts risk creating inequity rather than building community. However, when companies thoughtfully engage their deskless workforce, they unlock a deeper sense of connection and purpose, boosting morale, retention, social impact and long-term business value.

One Size Does Not Fit All
To create inclusive programs, it’s important to recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach is often ineffective and inequitable. For example, volunteer events scheduled during standard office hours may work for employees with flexible calendars, but they can be out of reach for deskless workers tied to specific shifts or responsibilities outside of a traditional office environment.

Rather than hosting a fixed-time volunteering event, companies should offer multiple shifts or time slots, allowing employees to participate when it best suits their schedule. Flexibility is key to enabling participation.

Another valuable strategy is micro-volunteering: quick, simple actions that support a cause. These may include packing hygiene kits or school supplies in break rooms, or assembling care packages and snack bags for local shelters. Because these activities can be done in short bursts – even during breaks or shift changes – they offer an accessible and meaningful way for employees to give back without losing income or needing to travel off-site.

Empower Employees to Become Philanthropists
Fundraising events, often a cornerstone of corporate giving and matching programs, allow employees to become philanthropists and support causes they care about. Yet many deskless workers may hesitate to participate due to limited financial resources, which can inadvertently lead to their exclusion.

Traditional giving and matching programs require employees to make a personal donation first, which the company then matches. But increasingly, companies are adopting more inclusive approaches that make participation easier, such as seeding employee giving accounts with funds that can be directed to the causes of their choice.

These company-sponsored contributions, sometimes referred to as company rewards, can be awarded for a range of reasons: completing a wellness challenge, reaching a service anniversary or demonstrating company values. By giving employees both the opportunity and the funds to support nonprofits they care about, organizations can drive even more engagement and connection than through traditional matching programs. Employees feel recognized and valued, and the company demonstrates alignment with their personal values, without adding financial strain.

Tech Makes It All Possible
Deskless workers may not have regular access to computers or internal systems, but that shouldn’t be a barrier to participation in employee events or company philanthropy. The key is mobile-first, intuitive technology that enables them to engage anytime, anywhere, whether it’s signing up for a volunteer shift, donating to a cause or tracking their impact.

Tools that support QR code access, SMS alerts, and multilingual content further remove friction. With the right technology in place, inclusivity becomes scalable, and every employee, regardless of where or how they work, can be part of your company’s culture of giving and impact.

Creating a Culture Where Everyone Belongs
By designing volunteer and giving programs that are flexible, accessible and equitable, companies can ensure that every employee, including those on the frontlines, feels seen, supported and empowered to contribute. The most impactful organizations will be those that meet employees where they are – physically, financially and technologically – and invite everyone to be part of the mission. True impact happens when everyone has the chance to participate.