The innovative concept of peer-to-peer fundraising intertwined with corporate social responsibility (CSR), showcasing how businesses can drive meaningful impact in their communities, with Steve Lausch, the Director of Product Marketing at One Cause and Managing Director of IndyTechGives.
Steve starts by taking us back to 2019, the inception year of Indy Tech Gives, a pioneering initiative born from a simple yet profound question: “What might happen if we were to give our peer-to-peer fundraising software away to local Indiana businesses at no cost?” This question led to the creation of a five-week social giving program that unites Indianapolis’s tech community to support various nonprofits.
One of the key highlights of this fun conversation, with host Julia Patrick, is the seamless integration of competitive and community giving. Steve elaborates, “We talk a lot about community giving and competitive giving, and they are two beautiful sides of the same coin.” This dual approach has spurred a vibrant engagement among employees and tech companies, driving significant fundraising outcomes. The competitive spirit is evident as teams and individuals participate in unique fundraising activities, from shaving heads to hosting yoga sessions in public parks, all to rally support for their chosen nonprofits.
The pandemic’s onset in 2020 posed a significant challenge, but it also brought to light the adaptability and resilience of the initiative. As Steve recalls, “People don’t know where north is on the compass, and we need to rethink this.” Despite initial uncertainties, the program not only continued but thrived, proving the power of digital engagement in times of crisis.
Julia and Steve dig into the benefits corporations reap from participating in such initiatives. The boost in employee morale, the enhancement of CSR efforts, and the alignment of corporate values with community impact are profound. Steve emphasizes the importance of engaging employees early in the process, allowing them to voice their preferences and rally around causes they genuinely care about.
As the two wrap up, Steve shares the impressive milestones achieved by Indy Tech Gives. Over six years, the initiative has seen participation from 30 businesses and raised over $325,000, impacting numerous central Indiana nonprofits. This success story is a testament to the potential of combining technology with philanthropy, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community.