Why Philanthropy is the Missing Link in Employee Wellbeing (CEO Magazine)
Published May, 2025
Dr. Carylynn Kemp Larson explores how organizations can address the growing employee well-being crisis by tapping into one of the most overlooked drivers of engagement and resilience: purpose. While many companies invest in traditional well-being strategies—such as flexibility, mental health resources, and burnout prevention—she argues these efforts often fail to address a deeper issue: the lack of meaningful connection between employees and their work.
Drawing on research and real-world examples, Dr. Larson highlights how a strong sense of purpose is linked to improved health, motivation, and performance. She points to philanthropy as a powerful, scalable way for organizations to help employees connect their work to a broader impact. When employees can see how their efforts contribute to something larger than themselves—whether through giving, volunteering, or supporting meaningful causes—their engagement and well-being significantly increase.
She outlines practical ways leaders can integrate philanthropy into workplace culture, including involving employees in decision-making, aligning initiatives with personal passions, and creating shared experiences that build connection. Ultimately, Dr. Larson positions philanthropy not just as a social good, but as a strategic lever for organizations seeking to enhance well-being, strengthen culture, and unlock the full potential of their people.
Key Takeaways
Employee well-being is still in crisis—despite growing investment.
Traditional approaches often address symptoms, but not the deeper issue of meaning and purpose at work.Purpose is a powerful, often missing driver of well-being.
Employees who feel connected to a greater impact experience higher motivation, resilience, and satisfaction.Philanthropy creates a tangible connection to purpose.
Giving and volunteering allow employees to see the real-world impact of their work, strengthening engagement and fulfillment.Meaningful work drives better performance.
When employees understand how their efforts contribute to something bigger, they are more productive, committed, and likely to stay.Small acts of giving can have a significant impact.
Research shows that contributing to others increases happiness, optimism, and overall well-being.Leaders play a key role in activating purpose.
By integrating philanthropy into workplace culture, leaders can help employees connect their work to meaningful outcomes.Employee involvement is essential.
The most effective initiatives are those that reflect employees’ passions and give them a voice in how impact is created.Connection and community amplify impact.
Shared experiences like volunteering and service projects strengthen relationships and reduce isolation at work.
Authored by Carylynn Kemp Larson,