PEOPLE's 100 Companies That Care in 2024: Employers Putting Their Communities First

The businesses on PEOPLE's annual list go the extra mile to honor their customers, empower their employees — and make the world a better place

Together with global workplace authority Great Place to Work, we surveyed companies across the U.S. to find those that best demonstrate outstanding respect, care and concern for their communities, their employees and the environment. The rankings are based on more than 1.3 million survey responses from companies representing more than 8.2 million employees. Companies interested in applying for next year’s list can visit Great Place to Work.

Cisco

Cisco, a worldwide leader in technology that powers the Internet, has a purpose-driven mission: to power an inclusive future for all. And that mission drives the San Jose-based IT giant well beyond technological innovation.

In 2018, Cisco made an historic pledge to address homelessness in Santa Clara County, Calif., committing $50 million in grant funding over five years — the largest corporate donation of its kind at the time. The aim: to make homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring in the county; to develop a model that could be replicated outside of Silicon Valley; and to encourage other like-minded companies to join the fight. In the past six years, that commitment has been exceeded, with more than $130 million invested worldwide. This includes fruitful partnerships with nonprofit organizations like Covenant House, Habitat for Humanity and Communità di Sant’Egidio in Italy.

"At Cisco, we are driven by our Purpose to power an inclusive future for all, and it's an honor to see our team and partners recognized in People. Awards like Companies that Care empower a growing movement to make sure individuals and populations don't get left behind in this transformative age," says Francine Katsoudas, Chief People, Policy and Purpose Officer at Cisco. "This past year and for the fifth consecutive year, over 80 percent of Cisco employees supported communities and causes they love. But giving back and helping all individuals realize their full potential is not just fundamental to Cisco's culture — it's fundamental to our shared future."

Hilton

Hilton — a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising 7,300 properties and nearly 1.1 million rooms in 123 countries and territories — is committed to championing organizations whose efforts support destination stewardship, climate action, career development and community resilience.

Through its charitable arm, the Hilton Global Foundation, the company has awarded grants that have positively impacted more than 1.4 million people and provided critical relief to impoverished communities worldwide. In September 2023, in partnership with the Planet Water Foundation, Hilton team members helped install an AquaTower water filtration system in Puebla, Mexico, to provide the community access to clean drinking water.

“Hilton was founded on the belief that hospitality is a powerful force for good. Hilton and the Hilton Global Foundation are harnessing the transformative power of hospitality by driving meaningful impact in the communities where we live, work and travel,” says Katherine Lugar, EVP, Corporate Affairs and president, Hilton Global Foundation.

The Wonderful Company

The Wonderful Company — the Santa Monica-based enterprise that grows, harvests, packages and markets popular brands like FIJI Water and POM Wonderful — wants to ensure that the next generation of leaders receives quality education.

That’s why children of Central Valley, Calif.-based employees (more than 500 students from 70 high schools across the region annually) are eligible to receive company-sponsored scholarships of up to $30,000 per year, as well as individual college and career guidance. Beginning in ninth grade, they offer one-on-one counseling, weekly homework labs and individualized tutoring sessions. They also offer college-campus tours and assistance with financial aid applications.

“As Wonderful Neighbors, our commitment is to actively listen to community needs and collaborate on game-changing opportunities,” said Andy Anzaldo, chief operating officer of corporate social responsibility at The Wonderful Company in 2023. “All to improve the lives and opportunities of generations to come.”

Marriott International

A hospitality leader based in Bethesda, Md., Marriott International encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. That global positioning has given the company a unique perspective on doing good work throughout the world.

In 2022, Marriott made a public commitment to hire at least 1,500 refugees in the U.S. by 2025, and the following year they doubled down on 1,500 more hires throughout their European region by 2026. Putting a human face on this commitment are Ehsanullah Safi and Shah Faisal Safi, cousins who fled Afghanistan in 2021, and who are now proud associates at the Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ.

“The Safi cousins are fantastic associates, passionate and hardworking,” says Apoorva Gandhi, Senior Vice President Multicultural Affairs, Social Impact and Business Councils. “They’ve earned enough to buy their first family car, and their shifts are aligned so they can travel from home together. It provides them with not only income, but opportunities for the future. I text with their uncle, and he tells me they love their job, they love Marriott, and they love America. Multiply this hundreds of times, and you can begin to see the impact that we’re having on people’s lives."

Veterans United Home Loans

Veterans United, headquartered in Columbia. Mo., helps service members and veterans achieve the American Dream of homeownership — but the company also demonstrates a strong commitment to literacy and education.

Through its partnership with Scholastic Book Fairs, the Veterans United Foundation has been successful in bringing book fairs to Title 1 schools across Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Virginia, with the goal to foster a love of reading. Hundreds of VUF volunteers help set up displays, read aloud to children and help students select age- and reading-level-appropriate titles they can take home to enjoy.

“Through the data Scholastic gathered,” explains Erika, a VUF manager, “we learned there were some schools that hadn’t had a book fair in more than ten years.” Said another volunteer: “When the students came in today, their eyes were as big as saucers. It just means the world to these kids.”

NVIDIA

A key innovator of computer graphics and A.I.,the Santa Clara, Calif.-based NVIDIA recognizes its passionate, driven employees, who know where and how they want to make an impact in their communities.

To help inspire even more involvement, NVIDIA’s Inspire 365 program rewards giving back by doubling charitable donations, organizing volunteer opportunities and even matching employees to nonprofits specifically aligned with their interests. In each office, employee representatives, called Inspire Champions, work closely with the company’s charitable arm, the NVIDIA Foundation, to identify causes most important to local employees and nearby communities. In the last fiscal year, more than 40 percent of NVIDIANs participated in the Foundation's Inspire 365 efforts, donating more than $16 million and logging nearly 40,000 hours of hands-on volunteer time.

“[We] here at NVIDIA feel our work is meaningful and impactful to the world at large,” says one team member. “Our CEO [Jensen Huang] says, ‘Come to NVIDIA to do your life's work,’ and we feel that is exactly what we are doing.”

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.

Wegmans, the supermarket chain with more than 100 locations in the eastern U.S., lives the values of the late Robert Wegman: “Never think of yourself; always help others.”

One way the company is succeeding in giving back is through its Perishable Pickup Program, which donates unsold perishable food items to local food pantries and food banks throughout the week, getting the items to people who need them desperately. What began as a limited program comprised mainly of donations from in-store bakeries has expanded to include items from the dairy, deli, cheese shop, meat and produce departments, and restaurant. In all, last year Wegmans donated more than 32 million pounds of perishable and nonperishable food to help reduce hunger.

“At Wegmans, we believe good people working toward a common goal can accomplish anything they set out to do,” said CEO Colleen Wegman in the company’s 2023 impact report. “[We] continue to deliver against our mission to help people live healthier and better lives.”

BayCare Health System

Formed in 1997 by a group of local hospitals determined to continue providing not-for-profit health care to the community, BayCare Health System provides an integrated network of services, with 16 hospitals, ambulatory and physician services throughout the Tampa Bay and West Central Florida regions.

BayCare realizes that effective care doesn’t end when a patient leaves the hospital, and that nutrition is an essential component of wellness, which is why they ask everyone they discharge if they have enough food at home, providing food insecure individuals with “healing bags,” a two- to three-day supply of nonperishable items, like pasta, canned goods and grains.

“We strive to bridge the gap between hunger and health, treating food insecurity as we would any other barrier to well-being,” says Lisa Bell, BayCare’s director of Community Benefit, whose team has helped drive implementation of the initiatives across the system. “By addressing this fundamental need, we are not only nourishing bodies but also fostering stronger, healthier communities.”

Sheetz, Inc.

Founded in 1952, Sheetz—based in Altoona, Pa.—is one of America's fastest-growing family-owned and -operated convenience restaurant chains, with more than 680 stores in six states serving 1.6 million customers daily.

Supporting accessibility and increasing employment opportunities are core values at Sheetz, which led the company to create the Store Team Helper program, which places individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The pilot program has already helped 20 people, including Abel Keith of Hollidaysburg, Pa., gain experience and employment in multiple locations in Pennsylvania.

“As soon as Abel walks through the door in the morning, it sounds like a sitcom in here because we're all like, ‘Heyyyyy, Abel!’" says store manager Sarah Rogal. “He has brought patience and laughter to our store. He pays attention to all of our life happenings and asks about them. He loves to say hello and greets any customer he sees. He pumps us up when he starts dancing to the songs on the radio. There is never not a smile on his face, and he always fist bumps us goodbye and asks when he'll see us next. Any task that is asked of him, he says, ‘You got it, Boss,’ with a smile. He’s always eager to learn something new.”

Synchrony

The consumer finance specialists at Synchrony, based in Stamford, Ct., know that it’s essential to invest in the development and retention of team members. So they’ve taken great strides to offer skills training, education, mentorship and learning and development opportunities.

Through Synchrony’s Tech Apprenticeship Program, employees are offered a year of intensive training and education in different tracks, including artificial intelligence (AI), business continuity and disaster recovery, information security and tech supplier management. Open to anyone in a non-tech role, with or without a college degree or technical training, the program is designed to develop technology, business and leadership skills.

“I have the curiosity to learn new things all the time,” says Brittany Weisbeck, an AI apprentice who started her career at Synchrony in 2014. Weisbeck, a working mother who doesn’t have a college degree, calls the opportunity life-changing: “This unique program, which will prepare me for a career in artificial intelligence, is a huge opportunity for me, and I’m so grateful for it every day.”

Rocket Companies

Rocket Companies, a fintech platform centered on personal finance and consumer technology, operates under a For-More-Than-Profit philosophy, recognizing that businesses and communities are inextricably linked.

Since 2010, Rocket Companies’ team members have volunteered more than one million hours nationwide, the equivalent of 114 years of time donated to community cleanup, student mentoring, building homes and much more. In Rocket’s hometown of Detroit, the company is helping citizens buy homes and complete necessary repairs on their current homes. The Rocket Community Fund developed the Motor City Contractor Fund (MCCF), alongside their partners at Community Reinvestment Fund, Invest Detroit and Barton Malow Builders. MCCF, which was launched as a $10 million pilot program, will remove barriers for and provide Detroit-based contractors with a suite of services to grow their capacity and succeed in the increasingly competitive local marketplace.

“The support we give our community and the city of Detroit is amazing,” says one employee. “It is the reason I came to work for the company. Our CEO and the Rocket Community Fund really support the Detroit, and I am helping support that mission.”

Paramount Software Solutions

Paramount Software Solutions, an emerging technology product, technology services and staffing solutions company based in Atlanta, uses a “Rethink, Reinvent and Give Back” paradigm to guide their business. Socially-driven innovation is at the heart of Farm To Plate, their flagship blockchain-for-food-supply-chain product, which connects consumers, farmers, producers, manufacturers and logistics — promoting food and financial sustainability and reducing waste.

“Our goal is simple yet profound,” explains Pramod Sajja, Paramount’s president and CEO. “To build a transparent, sustainable and trusted food supply chain that benefits producers and consumers, ensuring that every product’s journey from farm to plate is one of integrity.”

Paramount is also a lead sponsor of the Vibha Dream Mile race in Atlanta. Vibha, a platinum-rated nonprofit rated among the top 0.5 percent of 1.8 million listed nonprofits in the world, uses the funds generated from the race and other initiatives to help drive child development programs in the United States and India. To date, the Dream Mile has raised more than $3 million to support more than 180,000 children.

Comcast NBCUniversal

Comcast NBCUniversal, the global media and technology company based in Philadelphia, is committed to helping low-income families access the Internet so they can fully participate in educational opportunities and the digital economy. Working alongside a network of nonprofit partners and city leaders, in 2020 the corporation launched Lift Zones, providing free WiFi inside centrally located neighborhood community centers for students, adults and seniors.

Comcast NBCUniversal has activated more than 1,250 Lift Zones nationwide, helping more than six million unique users get connected. More than 92 percent of sites with Lift Zones reported that the functionality helped them increased digital equity in their communities.

“We will continue to create even more packages and options to offer our customers and the communities we serve,” explains Broderick D. Johnson, Executive Vice President, Public Policy, and Executive Vice President, Digital Equity for Comcast Corporation. “We’ve made so much progress closing the digital divide and we remain committed to doing our part to ensure more Americans stay connected and that no one gets left behind.”

Alston & Bird LLP

Based in Atlanta, Alston & Bird is a leading international law firm with core practices spanning complex litigation, corporate, intellectual property and tax — but the firm’s culture is steeped in service and teamwork.

To help create an intentionally inclusive culture, Alston & Bird’s D&I and Pro Bono Committees joined together in 2020 to launch a Racial Justice Initiative, and that important work continues today through steady pro bono work, racial justice panel discussions, a Racial Justice Fund and much more. The fund has supported Michelle Mapp, an Equal Justice Works Fellow, who has advocated for the passage of a Tenant Right to Counsel law in South Carolina to prevent eviction and displacement of low-income and African American households. In total, last year, the firm completed 56,682 pro bono hours, with 98 percent of associates participating.

“The firm continues to place a true emphasis on culture, which shows in who we hire and how people interact with one another on a daily basis,” says one associate. “This is a truly collegial place to work. Showing that its priorities are in the right place, the firm highly emphasizes diversity, inclusion and pro bono work.”

Publix Super Markets

Publix Super Markets, currently operating 1,377 stores across eight states, cares for its employees and the communities they live and work in — especially in times of need.

When Hurricane Ian struck in 2022, the Publix store in Fort Myers Beach, Fla., was forced to close for months. On May 25, 2023, it reopened, with associates and locals joining in the celebration. The store handed out care packages to the first 300 customers and provided boxed lunches to the residents and construction crews still working to rebuild homes and infrastructure on the island. Publix also donated $5,000 in shelf-stable food, hygiene items, paper products and a Publix gift card for the purchase of additional needs to Beach Baptist Church to go toward efforts to help those still impacted by the storm.

“At Publix, we remain committed to standing side-by-side with residents and our associates as the community rebuilds,” said Lindsey W., Publix media relations manager at the time. “We are honored and privileged to serve our customers and welcome them back to their Publix store.”

Turo Inc.

Headquartered in San Francisco, Turo Inc. is the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, with a vibrant community of trusted hosts across the US, Canada, France, Australia and the U.K.

For the past five years, Turo has partnered with Dream Foundation, the only national dream-granting organization for terminally ill adults, to help fulfill end-of-life wishes. In collaboration with the Dream Foundation, Turo has helped facilitate 239 “dreams,” with 92 accomplished last year alone.

This includes one for Debra Sodomka of Burnsville, Minn., who at 63 was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a terminal brain cancer. With Turo’s assistance in assuring the Sodomkas could travel comfortably and for free, Debra and her husband Joe went Seattle to see their musician son Dan perform on stage and celebrate his album release. “Every parent likes to see their children experience their own dreams,” said Debra of the trip. “To be a part of that...was amazing.”

Nugget Market, Inc.

Nugget Markets, family-owned and -operated in Northern California since 1926, is a family of 16 stores, a central kitchen, a warehouse distribution center and a corporate support team, all dedicated to creating an extraordinary grocery experience — and an eco-friendly one at that.

Nugget recently celebrated its first full year of implementing the use of clean, green energy at half of their store locations with Bloom Energy fuel cells. The cells provide those eight stores with certified clean energy 24/7, eliminating the need for reliance on PG&E — even when the power grid suffers interruption.The cells generate a total of 16.4 billion watts of electricity annually, eliminating 4.6 million pounds of carbon dioxide from the environment — the equivalent of saving 225,000 gallons of gasoline. Nuggets eco-friendly efforts are pushed forward by a dedicated sustainability coordinator and “Green Guru” teams in every store.

“It’s an incredible company to work for,” says one associate. “They truly care. In the end, we’re more than just workers — we’re family.”

Bank of America

Bank of America creates a culture of caring for its employees by respecting work-life balance. The financial institution headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., offers an industry-leading sabbatical program to recognize and reward loyal employees. Teammates with 15 years of continuous service have the opportunity to take an additional four weeks of paid time off to recharge and refocus. After reaching 20 or 25 years, five weeks are available; after 30 years, six weeks are available.

In 2023, One BoA employee used the opportunity to take her young son from California to Nevada to meet his 87-year-old great-grandmother, the woman who raised her — a meeting that hadn’t yet happened because of the pandemic. In all, she was able to take a month to recharge and invest in joyful family times.

“It felt so amazing to spend quality, uninterrupted time with Jimi, and see him experience so many new things he was not able to because of the pandemic,” she says. “We made memories I will never forget.”

American Express

Leading global payment company American Express is committed to helping their team members — and community members — reach their career goals.

Through the American Express Leadership Academy, funded through the Amex Foundation, they have invested more than $100 million to support 165,000 leaders over the past 16 years. Many of those Academy alumni are now senior leaders and CEOs of nonprofits around the world. Amex relaunched the Academy in late 2022 to amplify its impact, focusing on “Resilient Changemakers” and helping nonprofit leaders around the world accelerate their development and build skills to meet the unique challenges facing communities post-pandemic. The 2023 class of 75 underrepresented nonprofit leaders from the U.S., Canada and Latin America took part online and on site in talks and panel discussions with cultural, governmental and philanthropic leaders; got hands-on training in communication and storytelling; and received peer coaching and one-on-one coaching, with a focus on combating burnout.

Alice Lin Fabiano, Vice President of Community Impact and Chief Operating Officer of the American Express Foundation recently said of the 2024 class: "We're thrilled… to support the development of nonprofit leaders worldwide. We aim to strengthen the skills of leaders who are embedded within and represent the communities they serve so they can deliver solutions to societal challenges during uncertain times."

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company, with more than 1,300 properties in 76 countries — and it's a company guided by the purpose to care for people so they can be their best.

Recognizing that economic inequality is at the root of systemic injustice, Hyatt has adopted a robust supplier diversity program intended to drive social change and racial equity by expanding opportunities for diverse- and women-owned businesses. The corporation set a goal to expand its purchasing with minority-owned businesses, specifically Black-owned businesses. By the end of 2022, Hyatt had surpassed its stated goal, with Black supplier spending accounting for 34 percent of these new diverse- and women-owned suppliers. In the past four years, more than 500 new Black suppliers have been identified, and their goods and services elevate the Hyatt experience.

Derrick Morrow, general manager of Hyatt Regency Atlanta, calls partnering with Symphony Chips, a local Black-own potato chip producer, an honor. “We want to represent the community we serve,” he says.

Plante Moran

Southfield, Mich.-based Plante Moran, one of the nation’s largest audit, tax, consulting and wealth management firms, bases its company culture, according to one team member, on the Golden Rule: “It makes us unique. We care about our people. We care about our clients. We care about our community. We care about our families. And we are dedicated to bringing the highest level of client service while giving our staff the opportunity to grow and thrive in a fun and caring environment.”

That fun and caring environment was on full display at a recent Black History Month Art Experience, a tribute to Black excellence that transformed Plante Moran’s largest offices into an art institute and sparked joy for all who attended. Arranged by the nearly 200-person-strong African American staff resource group, the event provided a venue for Black artists to display their work, and for local Black business owners to network and support each other.

“It was a whole experience, says team member Clenetta, “from the way the food was displayed to the live music and dancing to the joy of being together. The night was a total success. And it was a surreal moment, being able to celebrate ourselves, our history and our heritage.”

Salesforce

Salesforce, a leader in customer relationship management based in San Francisco, proves that you can see the best in people when the worst happens.

Following the catastrophic 2023 earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, a group of passionate Salesforce employees launched a grassroots fundraising campaign that had an initial goal of $100,000. By May 2023, they had raised more than $1 million, which was used to provide supplies, healthy meals and emotional support to those impacted. They also maintained a direct line of communication with philanthropy partners in Turkey and Syria, including Save the Children, CARE and World Central Kitchen.

“The campaign is the perfect example of Salesforce’s unique culture at its best,” says Regional Vice President and Turkish citizen Hayal Koc. “At Salesforce, not only do we believe that social impact is a core part of our DNA, but we are empowered as individual employees to drive action and make an impact. With this campaign, we humanized an environmental disaster, raised awareness about a tragedy in a part of the world that is commonly overlooked and demonstrated that each of us can truly make a difference.”

Baird

Team members at Baird, an employee-owned international financial services firm based in Milwaukee, believe that giving back isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s at the core of what it means to call a community home.

Each year, during Baird Gives Back Week, associates and their families come together to donate their time. They set a firmwide record in 2023, with more than 2,500 Baird volunteers from 103 locations participating, more than 7,700 hours of service logged and 223 charitable organizations supported. In one act of respect, Baird associates came together with other organizations on Memorial Day to plant 27,000 flags representing fallen service members from Wisconsin (see above).

“From the top executives down to the administrative staff,” says one associate, “Baird cares about its employees and community involvement, and they focus their attention on maintaining a positive work environment for everyone.”

SAP America, Inc.

A global leader in enterprise applications and business AI, SAP lets its associates know: Care isn’t simply a verb; it’s a way of being. And that includes care for the environment and being a responsible steward of the planet’s natural resources.

The Newtown Square, Pa.-based company is working to become carbon neutral, following an “avoid-reduce-compensate" approach. SAP is increasing the number of e-cars in its car fleet, setting a CO2 price tag for business flights and reducing greenhouse gas emissions overall. SAP has also pledged to address plastic pollution through a commitment with customers to strive for a dramatically cleaner ocean by 2030 at the World Economic Forum in Davos. And SAP set a goal of planting 21 million trees by the end of 2025.

“Everyone has the opportunity to make change happen,” wrote Henry Levenberg, a SAP learning management associate, to mark Earth Day. “But it’s up to us to make the change for the better."

SCAN Health Plan

SCAN Health Plan is a mission-driven not-for-profit organization that operates Medicare Advantage health plans that serve nearly 300,000 members in five states, as well as four subsidiary medical groups, to support seniors.

To promote wellness in employees’ everyday lives, SCAN has introduced “Get Moving” competitions to encourage daily exercise, offered Fitbits to help team members track their fitness and activity levels and made available other health and wellness resources, like HeadSpace for mindfulness and meditation and DietID for healthy eating.

“SCAN sticks by their mission to keep seniors healthy and independent, always thinking of new ways to service our diverse group of members,” says one team member. “Employees are treated the same. The organization always thinks about our needs as employees and recognizes our hard work and efforts throughout the year with various rewards and company events and outings.”

Cadence

Headquartered in San Jose, Cadence is a leader in electronic systems design — and they use that to industry-leading know-how to tackle global challenges.

Recently, Cadence employees teamed up with RefuSHE, a nonprofit based in Kenya, to support refugee girls and women by developing two important projects: a new e-learning and wellness website that is also mobile-friendly, and revamping their flagship education model, the Girl’s Empowerment Program. RefuSHE supports vulnerable women refugees through unique programs that provide equal access to safety, education and economic prosperity. A group of six employees developed a fully functioning e-learning and wellness platform for RefuSHE users with low literacy levels. This platform will help participants learn the foundations of running a small business and vocational skills, and introduce them to the importance of mental health support. In all, the RefuSHE project impacted more than 450 learners, totaling over 2,000 hours of pro bono consulting valued at $420,000.

“This company's work culture is truly exceptional, making it an inspiring place to work,” says a team member. “At the end of each day, you will feel proud of making a meaningful difference.”

Camden Property Trust

Houston-headquartered Camden Property Trust is a publicly traded, multi-family real estate investment trust that provides homes and exceptional customer service to more than 90,000 people across the country.

Through Camden’s partnership with New Hope Housing, they are transforming lives, helping to provide life-stabilizing, affordable and permanent housing and services for at-risk individuals in the Houston community. This includes people with physical or cognitive challenges, seniors, veterans, the formerly homeless, and individuals and families living on limited incomes. Camden Builders has completed 10 New Hope communities providing 1,541 homes, with more in the pipeline.

“Camden Builders is a true partner,” says Joy Hrovat Brown, Chief Executive Office of New Hope Housing. “They share our core commitment to excellence and deploy a superb team of project managers, supervisors and support personnel. Camden is dedicated, professional, thorough and responsive. I feel relieved when working with Camden because I know that I can trust them to act as an ambassador for New Hope’s interests.”

Bell Bank

Bell Bank, headquartered in Fargo, N.D., shows intentional care with its employees, customers and the broader community. Since 2008, the company’s Pay It Forward initiative has empowered more than $26 million in giving, primarily by providing every full-time Bell employee $1,000, and every part-time employee $500, every year to give away as they choose to individuals, families and organizations in need.

The stories of Pay It Forward’s impact are inspiring, having provided everything from backpacks to shoes to freshwater wells, and impacting people in Bell Bank employees’ own backyards and across the world. In one instance, Bell Bank employees — inspired by second graders hosting a lemonade stand to raise money for a classmate with brain cancer — teamed up to raise more than $30,000 to help the student and his family.

“People care about one another here, and that makes for an amazing workplace,” says one team member. “The company gives back to the community and shows a high level of interest and compassion for the employees.”

World Wide Technology

Founded in 1990, St. Louis-based World Wide Technology (WWT) is a technology solutions provider leading the AI and Digital Revolution.

As a good steward of the environment, WWT is striving to reduce waste and water use, two factors they believe tend to get overlooked in the global race to lessen greenhouse-gas emissions. To date, WWT has achieved 51 percent waste diversion from landfills through cardboard, wood, plastic and single-stream recycling, and is on track to meet a 75 percent diversion goal from landfills by 2030. WWT is also on track to achieve water neutrality by 2040.

“WWT was founded and built on our culture and core values, and it's these core values that differentiate our company from others,” says an employee. “Steadfast leadership driving consistent culture at its core makes this company a great place to work.”

Delta Air Lines

More than 100,000 Delta people deliver a world-class customer experience on more than 4,000 daily flights to more than 275 destinations on six continents, connecting people to places and each other.

Listening to employee feedback has helped Delta better serve its team. Through survey responses from more than 40,000 people, they learned that financial wellness was top of mind, leading them to launch an emergency savings program rooted in financial education. Team members earn $1,000 after completing a financial education course and individual financial coaching to help employees decrease debt, improve their credit scores and start (and grow) a rainy-day fund. Today, more than a third of Delta people have participated, and those who completed the program indicated a 77 percent increase in feeling in control of their overall financial situation, with a 140 percent increase in feeling in control of their ability to save for goals other than emergencies.

“Delta has an amazing customer/employee centric culture that permeates every aspect of what we do,” says a team member. “The values and expectations are clearly set, and people do the right thing because it's the right thing to do.”

DHL Express

With a global network in more than 220 countries and territories, DHL Express is the most international company in the world and can offer solutions for all logistics needs.

Of course, you don’t get to be an expert in global transport and logistics without being willing to go the extra mile — and that extends to finding innovative ways to support local kids and veterans abroad. Case in point: For its Operation Cookie/Hometown Heroes campaign, DHL partners with Girls Scouts of Nassau to deliver boxes of cookies to U.S. military personnel and first responders stationed overseas and on Long Island, N.Y. They successfully delivered more than 85,000 in May, the 19th year of the partnership. This initiative brings smiles and a taste of home to those who dedicate themselves to serving their communities and country.

“It has been inspiring to collaborate with the GSNC over the past 19 years to support Operation Cookie, which acknowledges the sacrifices of those serving our country and community," Pawel Zagaja, Senior Director of JFK Gateway, DHL Express, said earlier this year. “The growth of this program and the increasing number of donated cookie boxes each year is a heartwarming testament to the strong community spirit in Nassau County. We’re proud to leverage DHL’s extensive global air network to deliver a sweet taste of home to our hometown heroes and the brave U.S. servicemen and women stationed abroad."

Deloitte

Deloitte — which provides audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to the majority of Fortune 500 companies — promotes a culture of inclusion, collaboration, high performance and purpose.

Last September, in collaboration with Citi, Salesforce, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and the World Economic Forum, Deloitte helped launch Yes SF, the first location-based UpLink challenge created in direct response to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 11: to make cities more inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. The Yes SF Urban Sustainability Challenge engages local organizations to bring specialized expertise to help create equal access to opportunity and a more sustainable future. The mission of the Challenge is aligned with Deloitte’s social impact strategy and Deloitte’s ongoing efforts to help drive equity in places with the greatest need.

“The Challenge provides an opportunity to help support the San Francisco community in addressing some of its biggest challenges,” said Kwasi Mitchell, chief purpose and DEI officer at Deloitte. “This type of effort is foundational to our organization’s purpose and commitment to social impact in the communities where we live and work. We hope it will help catalyze systemic change by creating a more sustainable and equitable future for this city.”

Edward Jones

As a national presenting sponsor of the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the financial specialists at Edward Jones participate in more than 600 walks held nationwide each year. More than 100,000 participants have walked under the Edward Jones banner, and the company is well on its way to its pledged $50 million goal.

Edward Jones’s continued support enhances the Alzheimer’s Association’s care and support programs, provides educational materials, funds critical Alzheimer’s research and impacts early detection.

As managing partner Penny Pennington remarked, “This is a cause that’s near and dear to our hearts at Edward Jones. The reason why is that Alzheimer’s and other dementias rob people of their treasure. Their financial treasure, yes, but even more importantly, their treasured memories and the relationships with the people that they love the most. [...] As of yet, there’s not a cure and there’s not a survivor, but with all of our help there will be.”

IHG Hotels & Resorts

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. With a family of 18 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programs, IHG has more than 6,000 hotels in more than 100 countries, and more than 1,800 in the development pipeline.

As a global company, IHG considers addressing human trafficking a key component of its larger commitment to responsible business. That’s why IHG proudly partners with leading anti-human trafficking organizations ECPAT-USA and Polaris on education and advocacy efforts. IHG also supports the international nonprofit organization It’s a Penalty, which works to stop trafficking around sporting events, and Atlanta nonprofit organization Wellspring Living in the U.S., which focuses on transforming the lives of those at risk for or victimized by sexual exploitation.

At a 2023 anti-trafficking forum held in Atlanta, Elie Maalouf, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “IHG’s purpose in convening this conversation with our partner Polaris, trafficking survivors, elected officials and businesses is twofold: to keep trafficking prevention in the spotlight, but also to shine a new light on barriers that prevent survivors’ livelihoods. Putting a stop to trafficking requires deep collaboration and commitment, from the hotel training we require across more than 4,300 Americas IHG hotels to partnering with our industry, nonprofits and government.”

Adobe Systems Incorporated

As technology continues to reshape how we connect and engage with the world around us, Adobe Systems Incorporated is guided by its mission to change the world through digital experiences. But thinking globally hasn’t stopped Adobe from acting locally, specifically when it comes to improving its beloved San Jose, Calif., home base of nearly 30 years.

Recently, Adobe strengthened its Hometown Commitment, an initiative that aims to create positive change in its communities by bringing the full power of Adobe — including financial support from the Adobe Foundation — to achieve the missions of nonprofit partners. Adobe’s commitment is a holistic approach that encompasses employee engagement, volunteering and advocacy, along with financial and product donations to drive positive social impact — utilizing creativity, uplifting creators and supporting the infrastructure of downtown to build a thriving community for employees and partners. To that end, the Adobe Foundation has invested millions to support the San Jose Downtown Association, HomeFirst, The Kelsey, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, The Tech Interactive, Cinequest, Local Color SJ and the San José Museum of Art.

“Working at Adobe is more than just a job; it's an experience filled with purpose,” says a team member. “The culture here fosters creativity and collaboration, making it truly enjoyable to be a part of the team.”

Intuit Inc.

Intuit, a global technology platform with more than 100 million customers worldwide, states its corporate values plainly: “Integrity Without Compromise,” “Courage,” “Customer Obsession,” “Stronger Together” and “We Care and Give Back.”

Living that commitment to care and give back, Intuit recently celebrated “Small Business Big Impact Day.” The event took place in 17 locations in several countries, with thousands of Intuit employees participating, injecting life into small businesses and communities, from the Bay Area to Bangalore to Sydney and beyond. In total, they poured more than $1 million into their small business customers, purchasing items to donate to dozens of local nonprofits. Teams also logged more than 10,000 volunteer hours sorting, packaging, creating, writing and delivering much-needed items and notes to individuals and communities in need.

“The values that we speak are truly at the center of our decisions,” says an employee. “ It is empowering to work for a company that backs their values.”

David Weekley Homes

Houston-based David Weekley is one of the largest privately held homebuilders in America, and they’re passionate about their “Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives” purpose.

In 2023, 14 of the company's 19 local divisions, as well as the corporate office, completed Build Month projects to construct 1,015 beds. This included partnerships with 13 local chapters of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Other projects included assembling bikes and skateboards for children in foster care, building dressers for families rebuilding their lives after suffering personal tragedy, painting a shed and building window flower boxes for children in foster care and performing onsite maintenance repairs at a camp for children and adults with disabilities. In all, David Weekley’s CARE Program has donated more than $275 million to charitable causes over the past 20 years.

“Our CARE program is one of my favorite aspects of working for David Weekley Homes,” said Pam Hirsh, a land purchasing analyst at David Weekley Homes in Denver, last July. “Our annual Build Month projects really connect me to our community here and open my eyes to the different opportunities we have to help those around us.”

RSM US LLP

Chicago-based RSM US LLP, the leading provider of professional services to the middle market, believes in investing in their people and the communities in which they operate.

Each year, RSM embarks on its Season of Service, which honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service by encouraging everyone across the firm to serve others and give back by sharing their time, talent and treasures throughout the winter holiday season. During last year’s Season of Service, local offices across the firm hosted events in their communities, including the highly anticipated #HashtagLunchbag event to pack lunches for those in need. Through this program, volunteers safely packed and delivered 11,012 meals to the homeless. RSM volunteers also donated to the Racial Understanding Campaign, a foundation program that matches up to $200,000 in donations to be split among 10 charities focused on providing youth with equitable access to resources and opportunities. In total, 448 volunteers provided 1,017 service hours and generated $73,130 in donations.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Professional services giant PricewaterhouseCoopers is committed to employee development and the upskilling of its people to grow and expand their career opportunities.

Over the next five years, PwC will build upon this commitment through one of our biggest and boldest leadership investments yet. PwC's recent announcement of a $1 billion investment in AI over the next three years is a significant step toward the firm's goal of delivering human-led and tech-powered solutions to clients. As part of My+, PwC US will invest in upskilling its 65,000 people on AI tools and capabilities to work faster and smarter, help grow their careers and advise clients on the benefits of AI, as well as other transformative technology.

Says one PwC team member: “I feel like the company values me and shows that. My relationship leader tries to set me up for success. I have autonomy to do my job.”

Orrick

Orrick is a forward-looking global law firm focused on advising the world’s most disruptive companies in three sectors: technology and innovation, energy and infrastructure and finance. The firm is known for innovating in the way it serves its clients and thinking differently about inspiring, sustainable careers.

To emphasize inclusion, Orrick introduced the The Orrick Inclusion Conversation Series. As part of the series, the firm hosts four or five conversations each year with leading thinkers on justice and equity. Orrick’s affinity groups nominate speakers and lead the conversations, which typically draw around 1,000 team members and clients. The company has also launched a Senior Leader Ally Sponsorship Program, which pairs Black and Latinx lawyers with a Board or Management Committee member to serve as their sponsor, ensuring that diverse lawyers have access to the most influential people at the firm.

“Orrick strives to give us the best of the best,” says a team member. “We are given the type of work-life balance that allows us freedom and confidence, therefore we all work harder. I am proud to be an employee of Orrick and cannot imagine working anywhere else.”

CrowdStrike

Austin-based CrowdStrike has redefined modern security with the world’s most advanced cloud-native platform for protecting critical areas of enterprise risk – endpoints and cloud workloads, identity and data.

In keeping with theme of security, CrowdStrike has taken strong measures to ensure that all of its people feel safe and respected. In response to rapidly changing legislation in the U.S., CrowdStrike realized many employees and their loved ones felt unease over health and security concerns. CrowdStrike’s chief human resources officer and president hosted a company-wide town hall to support LGBTQ+ employees and their family members. The town hall included an overview of the resources available to employees as well as a listening session, where employees shared their experiences. CrowdStrike’s diversity, equity and inclusion team also created an LGBTQ+ benefits guide and gender transition guidelines and launched a best practice to display pronouns in company tools like Zoom, Slack and Workday.

Said one team member: “I found it very impactful that with the state of emergency declared for LGBTQ people's safety, people higher up in the company held a forum to discuss the concerns and pledge allyship and support to LGBTQ employees. Said another: “There have been benefits added in light of recent events in the United States. It gave me more confidence in upper management and made me feel supported.”

Target Corporation

Retail giant Target, headquartered in Minneapolis, has a vision to co-create an equitable and regenerative future with the help of its guests, partners and communities.

Making strides in sustainable operations, Target retrofitted its first net-zero energy store in 2022. It’s a powerful example of the company’s Target Forward strategy of sustainability, and a massive step toward Target’s commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. The Vista, Calif., location is its most sustainable yet. On its own, the store will generate more renewable energy than needed each year to power its operations. It also serves as a testing site for sustainability-minded innovations, providing learnings that will help inform future store designs.

“As a company and a member of the global community, it’s imperative for the health of both our business and our planet that we embrace new ways to move forward,” says Brian Cornell, chairman and CEO of the Target Corporation. “We know sustainability is tied to business resiliency and growth, and that our size and scale can drive change that is good for all. Target Forward deepens our collaboration with our partners and builds on our past efforts to ensure a better future for generations to come.”

HP Inc.

Global technology leader HP Inc. shows care and consideration for its 12,000+ team members and the communities in which they live and work.

Last year, HP launched the “Better Me in ’23” campaign, with new tools, support and motivation to help employees determine their greatest areas of opportunity and create a personalized well-being plan to achieve their goals. HP has continued to partner with Included Health to support employees in navigating the complex world of healthcare. U.S. employees have the opportunity to receive one-on-one lifestyle coaching at no cost from certified professionals. HP also creates a culture of caring in their employees by providing benefits like four hours of paid volunteer time a month, which helps to foster an ongoing level of support for organizations in need. They also participate in “40 Days of Doing Good,” where teams around the world volunteer to support digital inequality, which resulted in 46,000 total volunteer hours in 2023.

“HP Inc. trusts and empowers employees to be their best selves,” says a team member. “We are offered great work-life balance, and the management is very supportive of growth within the company. I don't see myself leaving this company because of its values and support throughout the past years.”

ITA Group

West Des Moines, Iowa-based ITA Group, which specializes in professional services and solutions, creates diverse and inclusive initiatives that promote team member achievement and success.

ITA’s I.D.E.A. Council (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Allyship) works together throughout the year to bring educational resources to all team members through initiatives such as “It’s OK to Ask” Lunch and Learns, Conversations in Color, informative internal blog posts, trainings and activities that promote diversity, equity and inclusion. Examples include company-wide DEI statements; current legislation impacting minorities and holiday education; Pride Month celebrations; gender-neutral dress codes; pronouns as part of hiring application process and employee email signatures; required leadership training with an external consultant on micro and macro aggressions; required team member DEI training as part of annual bonus plan; and support of our LGBTQ+YOU Committee,

The newest internal committee, the Remote Advisory Council, is made up of remote team members only. This group meets monthly to discuss topics important to remote workers and focuses on caring for their needs and ensuring they feel as ingrained in company culture as those who work in the office. “Leadership is 100 percent committed to implementing programs that lead to the personal fulfillment of its team members. It's an ever-evolving company,” says an employee.

Jamf

Jamf — an information technology company that extends the legendary Apple experience people enjoy in their personal lives to the workplace — puts people at the core of everything they do.

To address the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, many Jamf team members in Poland opened their doors to Ukrainian families, volunteered at the border helping with supplies and support resources, and organized volunteer events to raise money. Jamf also reimbursed employees for expenses incurred while assisting refugees or aiding in the crisis including gas, food and lodging. Jamf employees were allowed to take any amount of VTO time related to supporting Ukraine, as well as taking the needed time to work on their mental health. Jamf Nation Global Foundation also donated an additional $30,000 for Polish Humanitarian Aid and People in Need.

“I truly believe Jamf cares about its employees and customers,” says an employee. “There are many opportunities to grow professionally here and find the best job for yourself. I have been given many opportunities to grow professionally and personally and I know that management cares a great deal about me.”

Humana

Louisville, Ky.-headquartered healthcare company Humana is committed to honoring the extraordinary commitments that active-duty military, veterans and their families have made for America.

To this end, Humana provides employment and development opportunities to veterans and their spouses by honing in on uniquely qualified military talent. The company launched the Veterans Hiring Initiative in 2011 and has added more than 6,000 vets and military spouses to their ranks since. Humana has dedicated human resources team members focused exclusively on veterans and military spouses and helping Humana leaders better understand how this outstanding group of talent makes Humana an even better organization.

“I wanted to feel a sense of belonging and purpose in my career,” says one team member. “My husband is in the military, which caused us to move across the country, where we didn’t know anyone. I feel fortunate to work for a company that allows me to have a career, even as a military spouse. It has been such a stress relief knowing my position would be able to move with me.”

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated

The upscale casual restaurant chain based in Calabasas Hills, Calif., is one of the busiest in the country — but they remain committed to their purpose: to nurture bodies, minds, hearts and spirits by giving back to the communities they serve.

To tackle food insecurity, The Cheesecake Factory’s Nourish Program takes excess food from restaurants to local nonprofits, which are, on average, seven miles from restaurants. In the past year-and-a-half, the company has donated more than 900,000 pounds of food in support of more than 700 nonprofits and food banks. The Nourish Program also benefits the environment. In 2022, the donations helped to avoid approximately 2.5 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions.

“The donation we received yesterday was tasty lasagna!” said a nonprofit partner in Irvine, Calif. “We used it to feed lunch to all 15 kids at our shelter today. We have small budget for groceries that we usually dip into twice a month, so donations help alleviate the worry of purchasing food. We truly appreciate it and are grateful for our partnership.”

PulteGroup, Inc.

Atlanta-based PulteGroup is one of the nation's largest and most respected homebuilding companies, with operations in more than 40 markets throughout the country.

PulteGroup’s Built to Honor program has given more than 78 military families a new, mortgage-free home. Working in partnership with compassionate and generous suppliers and contractors, the program has gifted more than $35 million in value since 2013, in order to make one critical part of re-entry to civilian life easier for these men, women and their families. One such family — Matt and Helen Perry — received their new home on March 14, 2023, after three sequential head injuries during Matt's Marine combat mission in 2008 caused post-traumatic epilepsy secondary to closed brain injury, a chronic condition requiring lifetime monitoring and treatment.

“Matt’s condition will only get worse,” says Helen, herself a former Army captain. “With this house, we don’t have to worry if he’ll be able to climb the stairs, because we have a wheelchair-accessible bedroom on the ground floor. We don’t have to worry if he’ll need special accommodations in the kitchen because we’ve been able to build all that in. I can’t tell you how much it means to us to not have to worry about the future anymore.”

Box, Inc.

As a leading content cloud platform, Box powers how the world works together — and the company puts that same purpose into making sure it’s working hard for its employees.

Recently, Box has begun implementing Fresh Air Days, which are days off for mental health and well-being, and they also provide health and wellness stipends. Additionally, Box provides three days per year of PTO for Boxers to use volunteering.

“Box is more than just a great place to work,” says one team member. “It's a community. Yes, we get meaningful work done and have exceptional clients. However, work has a different feeling when you are making a palpable impact with people you enjoy being around!"

Walmart Inc.

Walmart, the people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer, goes beyond employee training: They emphasize belonging and the role it plays in traditional diversity, equity and inclusion measures.

In April 2023, Walmart appointed its first-ever Chief Belonging Officer (as an evolution of the Chief Diversity Officer role). The reason for this change was simple. In Walmart’s words: “Inclusion is an input. It’s about us — our efforts, our policies and programs. Belonging is an output. It’s about our people — their experiences, their day-to-day treatment, the way they feel at work.” Walmart reports representation data twice a year through Culture, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (CDEI) reports that disclose metrics around demographics and progress in the inclusion space. This transparency helps them better understand which areas require their focus.

The company’s latest annual report shows Asian and Hispanic representation is up year to date across the board and the makeup of new-hire population is becoming increasingly diverse. This year, Walmart also scored 100 percent on the HRC corporate equality index, the sixth consecutive year to hit that benchmark.

Highlight Technologies, Inc.

Highlight Technologies, Inc. is an awarding-winning, employee-owned federal government contractor dedicated to providing digital government and mission support services to more than 20 federal agencies.

Through HighlightCares, its corporate community service program, Highlight supports more than 16 national organizations and local communities, like the American Cancer Society and multiple local chapters of United Way, specifically their efforts to improve childhood literacy. (The Highlight team recently gave 179 books in addition to a $6,000 corporate donation.) HighlightCares also gave strong support to The Mission Continues and One Tree Planted, and hosted an Honor Run, where employees were challenged to compete for the fastest 5K time and for the most miles run or walked. In all, Highlight donated more than $12,000 and 50 hours to its causes, before closing out the year with support of HOPE Worldwide and their global food security initiative, raising more than $5,500 (or an estimated 55,000 meals) to those in need.

“Highlight truly cares about its employees in a way that I believe is rare to find,” says one team member. "The intention to do good on behalf of or for the employees is behind every decision.”

Crowe LLP

Crowe LLP is a public accounting, consulting and technology firm with offices around the world. Crowe uses its deep industry expertise to provide audit services to public and private entities.

Based on feedback from Crowe’s pulse surveys and focus groups, the company found that Black women are the most disconnected population in the firm and among the highest risk to leave. In response, Crowe launched its Lift as We Climb forums, bringing together early-career Black female professionals with Black female partners to establish deep connections while fostering community and support. Crowe’s chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer has hosted LAWC forums across many offices, including Atlanta, Chicago, Houston and Washington D.C., with plans to expand.

For Ariana Evans, who started her career at Crowe at the height of the pandemic in 2020, the forum provided a sense of community and belonging. “Being able to meet peers who look like me and have a safe space to talk about issues that other people might not understand was really important to me,” says the senior staff member in Consulting. “I left the forum feeling super motivated and energized.”

Accenture

Accenture is a leading global professional services company of 738,000 people in 120 countries. The company helps businesses, governments and organizations build their digital core, optimize operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services.

Last February, Accenture introduced a way for its people to become Allies in Action. The global experience is designed to bring together all existing and new allies — to learn what it means to be an ally, practice inclusive behaviors and be role models for others. Allies in Action includes a variety of learning programs, events, community building activities and more. The experience introduces and amplifies Accenture’s five essential ally behaviors: activate awareness, practice presence, say something, have humility and inspire inclusion. All team members have the opportunity to become an ally in one or more of Accenture’s communities supporting racial and ethnic equality, LBGTIQ+, gender equality, mental health and well-being, neurodiversity, cross-cultural diversity, disability inclusion and cultural heritage.

Says one team member of the program: “The ability to be a Mental Health Ally and create a safe space for colleagues to talk and get support as needed [makes Accenture a great place to work].” Echoes another: “All people deserve love and compassion.”

Hilcorp Energy Company

Founded in 1989, Hilcorp Energy Company is the largest privately owned oil and natural gas producer in the United States. The Houston-based company says it's "built on the people and energy we produce, and strives for alignment with our fundamental core values.”

Hilcorp is creating “lifetime givers” in its employees, providing them with generous amounts of money to donate to organizations that touch them personally. The company also provides educational and informational resources to teach team members where their contributions can go furthest. As a result of the Growing Great Givers initiative, launched in partnership with the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) and the Alaska Community Foundation (ACF), Hilcorp employees donated nearly $35 million to charities across the nation in 2022 alone, more than triple what their employees donate in a typical year. And 96 percent of Hilcorp employees continue to actively participate in the Hilcorp Giving Program

“The culture at Hilcorp is truly incomparable,” says a team member. “Our leadership puts the well-being of the employees at the forefront and truly cares.”

The Progressive Corporation

The Progressive Corporation provides insurance for personal and commercial autos and trucks, motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles and homes.

Central to Progressive’s mission as a company is the implementation of programs that allow employees to better take care of themselves — and each other. Through a partnership with WinFertility, Progressive supports its people on their family-building journey with free 24/7 access to nurse care managers to help employees understand their benefits, explore treatment options, manage medication usage and ease emotional strain. Progressive also offers virtual care through its health clinic, and its fitness center teams offer hybrid fitness classes, allowing flexibility for employees to fit in a workout whether they’re in-office or working from home. Also offered: numerous events focused on mental health education, including webinars such as How to Define Yourself, Managing Social Anxiety, Understanding Eating Disorders, How to Slow Down and Accomplish More and The Pressure to Be Perfect.

“[Company leadership] goes above and beyond in providing a great work environment, even if you work from home,” says one team member. “Progressive is fair and really rewards those who work hard and do well. I've never felt more valued as an employee.”

Insmed

Insmed, headquartered in Bridgewater, N.J., is a people-first global biopharmaceutical company striving to deliver first- and best-in-class therapies to transform the lives of patients facing serious diseases.

The company is also taking definitive steps to become the best eco-friendly corporate citizen it can be. In May 2023, Insmed launched an employees-only company store for consumer goods and will be planting a tree for every item purchased. They have also partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant more than 1,700 Aspen trees toward reforestation in the Pacific Northwest in honor of completing enrollment in the Phase 3 ASPEN clinical trial. Recently, Insmed also launched a pilot program to incorporate the use of electric vehicles into its fleet for field employees. The company also offers electric vehicle charging stations at its headquarters.

“Great culture!” says one team member of what makes Insmed such a special place to work. “And not as a tagline, but in a meaningful, intentional way. Insmed truly does foster an inclusive, diverse workforce in which everyone can have a voice.”

ServiceNow

The Santa Clara, Calif.-based ServiceNow provides a cloud platform and solutions that help digitize and unify organizations so that they can find smarter, faster, better ways to make work flow.

For their employees, ServiceNow is making strides in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) spaces. The company has provided a carbon-neutral cloud platform for its customers and developed an approach to reach net zero by 2030. On the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) front, ServiceNow has improved their spend with diverse suppliers, achieving 19 percent (versus the industry average of 3 to 5 percent). Internally, their DEI work includes pay equity reviews and ensuring inclusive promotional practices.

“The company strives to make it more than a job, encouraging belonging and involvement in the community,” says a team member. “We have a cycling team that rides for a global charity. Our executives are supportive by donating their time, including donating ‘executive experiences’ — golf or dinner with an executive — that we auction off to raise funds.”

Credera

Based in Dallas, Credera is a global, boutique consulting firm that creates measurable results at the intersection of strategy, data, transformation and technology.

To build awareness and engagement, CredClimate began hosting Green Week — a week of team challenges, guest speaker events, book club discussions and other activities celebrating sustainability efforts and educating Credera team members on how to take action. CredClimate will host more educational events throughout the year, recognizing that the work of making a business more environmentally responsible is never truly done. Credera also holds a company-wide Service Day to give employees the opportunity to impact their communities. Recently, approximately 700 Credera team members paused client delivery and internal operations work to participate in 57 events across nine cities. Employees served a total of 3,000 hours with 27 nonprofit partners, impacting more than 72,000 lives.

“This company focuses on core values more than any company I have been a part of,” says a Credera team member. “They truly live up to the work-life balance expectations and care greatly for their employees.”

Credit Acceptance

Southfield, Mich.-based Credit Acceptance offers automobile dealers finance programs to help them sell vehicles to consumers, regardless of credit standing. That commitment to assisting people in getting a leg up can be life-changing — but life-changing work is just what Credit Acceptance does.

Case in point: Last year, Credit Acceptance granted a special wish to 4-year-old Lucy, who is battling leukemia, on behalf of its Sales Team of the Year. Before Lucy went to join the princesses at Disney World, the team threw her a sendoff celebration at a local park. The group celebrated Lucy’s wish come true with special “Lucy Got Her Wish” T-shirts and gifted Lucy’s family Mickey Mouse ears.

Says Chris W., Sales Director of the Year: “This experience has been one of the highlights of my career at Credit Acceptance. We all know that we change dealers’ and credit-challenged individuals’ lives daily, but when you see the impact something like this has on an entire family and their closest friends firsthand, you realize we do much more than help dealers and customers. We really do change lives, including our own.”

Collaborative Solutions, a Cognizant Company

Collaborative Solutions, a Cognizant Company, is a leading global Finance and HR Transformation consultancy that leverages world-class cloud solutions to help deliver successful outcomes for clients.

To successfully deliver a workplace at which team members can grow and thrive, the company has implemented “Collabie Convos,” video chats with small groups of employees and leaders, allowing for open dialogue to identify areas of improvement and celebrate wins within the organization. The convos are great opportunities not only for employees to share their voice and provide their input, but also to get to know the leadership team. The company also recognizes jobs well done through quarterly Collabie Champions, spotlighting team members who exemplify the core values of People, Collaboration, Knowledge, Balance and Integrity. Similarly, the Collabie Awards recognize hard work and dedication through peer nominations, in categories like Culture Champion, Outstanding Citizen and Mentor of the Year.

“An inclusive and collaborative culture” is how one team member sums up the company’s unique appeal. “Work-life balance is at forefront, and employees are extremely willing to lend a helping hand and support other growth and learning.”

Texas Health Resources, Inc.

Texas Health Resources, Inc has 28,000+ employees and is one of the largest faith-based nonprofit health systems in the U.S. and the largest in North Texas in number of patients served: more than 2 million annually across a service area of 8 million.

Texas Health’s culture of caring is demonstrated by its outstanding staff, like those at Texas Health Kaufman, who went above and beyond to help a patient with challenging home conditions. One of Texas Health’s paramedics would travel to the homes of patients who had been discharged to make sure they had everything they needed to recover and, hopefully, avoid being readmitted. When the paramedic saw that a particular patient lived in conditions unfavorable for improvement, he brought the situation to the attention of hospital leadership, who were moved to step in.

“We got together on a Saturday and went to the patient’s home,” says Renea Kelley, a Texas Health radiologist. “We spent the entire day cleaning, visiting, going to buy food, getting medication and making sure the home and surroundings were a safe place for the patient to recover. We left with such a sense of pride in our hospital and each other. We worked hard — but it didn’t seem like work at all.”

Jackson Healthcare

Alpharetta, Ga.-based Jackson Healthcare is one of the largest healthcare staffing companies in the U.S., which means they know a thing or two about support.

That support extends to more than 430 nonprofits and organizations around the world. Jackson Healthcare provides medical care and training in underserved areas, and has performed more than 65,000 life-saving surgeries. They connect orphans in 31 countries with clinicians and provide educational programs and enrichment opportunities for children across the globe. Associates are enveloped in a culture of care and support each other when needed. Their LoveLifts Associate Relief Fund provides support to associates facing hardships. Working closely with partners, last year Jackson Healthcare served more than 39,000 orphans and foster children worldwide, and nearly 7.5 million students through educational programs and enrichment opportunities.

“I like the values and how they are seen throughout the organization,” says one Jackson Healthcare team member. “In the associates, our vision and mission, and the giving of the company.”

Nations Lending Corporation

Nations Lending Corporation is a fast-growing independent mortgage bank located in the Cleveland area that goes above and beyond to care for its employees.

Nations Lending executives show love and support to employees by sending flowers during times of bereavement, food and other spirit-lifting gifts during times of prolonged illness or surgery, and birthday cards and other well wishes on special occasions. Additionally, Nations Lending promotes health and wellness among employees through annual Wellness Fairs and monthly Color Walks. And an in-house charitable committee called NLC Cares donates its time and efforts to nonprofits each month, whether cooking dinners for the families of patients in local hospitals or packing boxes at a local food bank.

Says one team member: “The amount of effort the entire company puts forth in ensuring team member success — whether you are a loan officer, loan processor, underwriter or part of the management team — is top-notch and like nothing I have ever experienced at any other job.”

KPMG LLP

A “Big 4” professional services firm that provides audit, tax, advisory and industry services, KPMG promotes a diverse, inclusive and supportive culture that empowers its people and helps them to grow their career and thrive.

In an effort to eliminate stigmas, KPMG recognized Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting a Courtside Chat with NBA player Kevin Love — a national advocate for mental health — on opening conversations. Employees were reminded that, similar to athletes, KPMG professionals need to care for themselves, especially after a busy season or major project. Following the session, everyone at the firm was encouraged to take the afternoon off as a mental health break. The chat and firm-wide break were part of a month-long program of activities focused on continuing to break the stigma surrounding mental health — including a series of webcasts, guided meditations and even a documentary screening — that provided tools, information and resources to help people prioritize their well-being and support the well-being of colleagues, friends and family.

“We’re corporate athletes, and we need to not only be physically ready to do our job, but we need to be mentally ready to do our job,” Sandy Torchia, KPMG’s vice chair of talent and culture, told Fortune in March. “If we make these investments in our people, we are going to have higher-performing teams.”

Venterra Realty

Founded in 2001, Houston-based Venterra Realty develops, owns and manages apartment communities in 19 US cities that provide housing to more than 44,000 people and 15,000 pets.

Venterra’s WOW Program stands out as a pillar of its caring culture. Through the program, the company empowers its leaders to seek out and act on opportunities to “wow” members of their teams by creating personalized and memorable experiences. And Venterra allocates an annual team member WOW budget of more than $100,000 for leaders to use as they see fit. Some recent memorable WOW moments include unveiling a crib for a maintenance manager during a speech at his baby shower; gearing up a maintenance technician to take on his first ski trip; surprising a leasing consultant with a new grill and grilling tools in time for a relaxing Memorial Day weekend; secretly delivering wish list items to an assistant manager moving into her first roommate-free apartment; and rewarding an outdoorsy team member’s hard work with a new kayak.

“This company not only cares about its residents, they care about us, the employees, in ways I have never in my life seen before,” says one team member. “We here have a voice. We are treated as a part of the whole. It’s wonderful.”

EY

EY, the professional services giant headquartered in New York City, exists to build a better working world — helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets. But they’re also committed to creating more opportunities for underserved communities.

In 2023, EY’s Social Justice Fund provided a grant for the Nomi Network, where funding will support the organization’s first domestic site for the Youth Workforce Development Program. This program creates opportunities for economic empowerment for girls from historically under-resourced communities so they can break free from cycles of poverty and abuse. EY also provided a grant for Youthcast Media Group, where funding will provide program support over two years for 12 multimedia journalism boot camps and workshops — impacting up to 144 high school students, of whom more than 95 percent will be BIPOC. All will be recruited from schools where more than 60 percent are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.

“Our work over the last year toward achieving our DEI ambitions reveals both progress and opportunities in creating an inclusive culture with people at the center,” EY leadership recently stated in a 2024 DEI report. “ We will continue to proactively drive positive change by valuing differences, cultivating a culture of care and empowering all our people through tremendous opportunities that enable us all to succeed."

AbbVie

AbbVie, a biotechnology and pharmaceuticals company headquartered in North Chicago, works nonstop to solve some of the world's most serious health issues — but never at the expense of care and compassion for individuals.

In January 2023, AbbVie and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital opened Family Commons, the first-ever treatment-free and clinical-staff-free floor at St. Jude, offering patients and families a home-like space to find comfort and respite in between clinic appointments. The design and construction of Family Commons, a 45,000-square-foot space, was funded by a historic $50 million donation from AbbVie. AbbVie’s donation has also supported non-clinical services, such as music therapy and school programming, that will continue in Family Commons

“AbbVie has been an incredible partner in that they've been with us every step of the way, making sure that all the details are appropriate and that they're going to meet the needs of our patients and their families,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., the President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude.

Mastercard

Mastercard, headquartered in Purchase, N.Y., is a global technology company in the payments industry whose mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible.

Always looking for ways to improve employee experience, Mastercard has made great strides in a number of arenas. Recently, they increased the global median pay for female employees to 94 percent of the median pay for male employees, up 0.8 percent from 2021. (Females continue to earn $1 for every $1 males earn, with the median pay gap predominantly due to more men in senior roles.) The company also grew the number of U.S. Black leaders at vice president level and above from 62 to 72 — a year over year increase of 16 percent — in 2022. (Since 2020, the percentage of Black representation in leadership at the vice president level and above in the U.S. has grown by 7 percent.) And since Mastercard launched their In Solidarity commitment in 2020, they’ve invested $423 million in Black communities by expanding city programs, providing affordable financial tools and services, providing capital and resources for Black-owned businesses and increasing Mastercard’s spend with Black-owned suppliers.

“Mastercard truly walks the walk,” says a team member. “Doing well by doing good.”

Panda Restaurant Group Inc.

Panda Restaurant Group, headquartered in Rosemead, Calif., is a family-owned and family-inspired restaurant company with more than 52,000 associates and more than 2,500 restaurants worldwide. One of the group’s goals: to become a world leader in people development, by investing in employees and caring for community members.

As the philanthropic arm of Panda Restaurant Group, Panda Cares provides food, funding and volunteer services to support underserved youth. Focusing on health, education and disaster relief efforts, Panda Cares fosters the core value of giving by empowering associates to fundraise in stores every day. In 2022, Panda donated $21 million, supported 131 children’s hospitals, helped 7.5 million patients and opened 11 new Panda Cares Centers of Hope for patients and students nationwide. They also donated 62,234 meals, hosted 461 Panda Cares events and donated 1,400 meals to first responders and their families.

“Something unique about this company that makes it a great place to work is the kind of relationship associates and management have with each other,” says a Panda team member. “A sense of having a second family — and ensuring a positive and safe environment for everyone.”

Wellstar Health System

Marietta, Ga.-based Wellstar Health System has a mission: to enhance the health and well-being of every person they serve. True to that mission, Wellstar is nationally ranked for its high-quality care, inclusive culture and exceptional physicians and caregivers.

And Wellstar knows that sometimes employees need a bit of help when unexpected costs arise, which is why they’ve adopted a unique benefit for their team members. The Wellstar Purchasing Power benefit helps employees immediately buy much-needed large ticket items such as appliances, electronics, furniture and more, and spread the cost over a year. There are no required credit checks, added interest or fees to use Purchasing Power. All costs are publicized up front in an easy 12-month fixed payment plan through payroll deduction. It’s a popular benefit that makes a positive financial difference for many team members. In 2022, Wellstar team members completed 3,653 Purchasing Power transactions.

“I have been employed with Wellstar for 16 years, the longest I’ve ever stayed with an organization,” says a team member. “I attribute this to the culture, my leadership team and colleagues. Wellstar is truly a great place to work!”

Elevance Health, Inc.

Indianapolis-based Elevance Health is a trusted health partner whose purpose is to improve the well-being of humanity, and that includes focusing on the overall health of its people.

Elevance’s Life Essential Kits provide eligible associates the choice to select from healthy food, transportation or childcare funds to help cover the cost of these essentials. The Nutrition Kit includes a spending card up to $3,000 per family and access to a dietitian. The Child Care Kit funds up to $3,000 per year to help cover childcare expenses for children under 13 or other dependents who require support while the associate is working. And the Transportation Kit includes a spending card for up to $3,000 per family to access public transportation and rideshare programs, as well as coverage for fuel, repairs and maintenance costs. In just one year, associates who used the cards experienced a 10.2 percent decrease in overall medical costs; 13.8 percent decrease in ER visits; and a 12 percent decrease in preventable hospitalizations.

“I love the people that work on my team,” say an Elevance employee of the company culture. “We all have the same goal, and it is so nice to show up to work every day. I feel very lucky and proud to work here.”

CarMax

CarMax, the Richmond, Va.-based used auto retailer, has ongoing and long-term partnerships with several national nonprofits, including The Mission Continues, Hiring Our Heroes and the American Red Cross.

One partnership that’s particularly near and dear to team members’ hearts is the collaboration with KABOOM!, an organization that helps build playgrounds for children. More than 80 CarMax volunteers built a playground in Uvalde, Texas, in response to the critical needs of the community (despite having no business presence in the area). And last October, CarMax completed its 100th build in conjunction with KABOOM!, a milestone that allowed them to reflect on more than $10 million invested in playspace equity and the more than 150,000 children annually who have been granted access to safe, fun equipment.

Of the playground built in Uvalde, Javy Gallardo, senior sales consultant at CarMax’s San Antonio store, says: "My mom drives by daily and sees children playing on the new equipment and having a great time. It has really made a significant impact to this previously underserved community.”

Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight Tools is a 45-year-old national tool retailer with the energy, enthusiasm and growth potential of a start-up. And the Calabasas, Calif.-headquartered business brings that same energy to improving its communities and the lives of its neighbors.

Harbor Freight Tools for Schools is a program of The Smidt Foundation, established by Harbor Freight Tools Founder Eric Smidt, to advance excellent skilled trades education in public high schools across America. With a deep respect for the dignity of these fields and for the intelligence and creativity of people who work with their hands, Harbor Freight Tools for Schools aims to drive a greater understanding of and investment in skilled trades education, believing that access to quality education gives high school students pathways to graduation, opportunity, good jobs and a workforce the country needs.

“The company itself is a unique place to work,” says a team member. “It is innovative, exciting, fun and dynamic at its core. One of the things that stands out is its diversity and the willingness to listen to people at all levels when there is an opportunity for recommendations.”

First American Equipment Finance

Headquartered in Victor, N.Y., First American Equipment Finance provides equipment leasing and project financing to the most creditworthy and sophisticated commercial borrowers in the county, including nonprofit organizations.

First American has taken an active role in increasing opportunities and equity for women in the workforce. One of First American’s most significant accomplishments toward its DEI goals is the recent launch of the Women in Business (WIB) employee resource group. The group currently has 114 members (representing 39 percent of First American employees). Its mission is to promote a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace where colleagues grow as leaders, build productive relationships and enjoy robust, fulfilling careers — pursuing their greatest potential by cultivating an empowered, confident and resilient mindset. The group meets quarterly for a networking breakfast and regularly hosts events like the recent “Women in Business Tell All” panel, International Women’s Day breakfast and self-defense training.

“First American gives its employees opportunities to pursue passions they feel strongly about,” says a team member. “For example, they allow employees to form committees or run events or projects that benefit the local community, and give employees set hours to volunteer their time in the community on an annual basis.”

Zillow Group

Zillow Group believes that home should be more than just a dream, which is why the Seattle-headquartered real estate specialists are committed to helping people get the home they want by connecting them with digital solutions, great partners and easier buying, selling, financing and renting experiences.

Zillow knows there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to home buying — or office work. The company’s CloudHQ model of work, which has given the majority of its people the option to work where they are happiest, has been a gamechanger. Not only has it done away with forcing potential employees to weigh relocation and cost-of-living considerations, it allows Zillow to recruit the best and brightest talent, regardless of where they live. Employees now have the flexibility to work from where they are most productive, and make choices that work best for their families and personal responsibilities. To level the playing field even further, Zillow pays its people based on their experience, not where they happen to live. By the end of 2022, Zillow employees were working from 49 states and 73 percent were categorized as working remote.

“The culture here is unmatched,” says a Zillow employee. “I work with some of the best set of peers I've ever met for many different reasons, with a general understanding that we are all better together.”

Pinnacle Financial Partners

Pinnacle Financial Partners offers banking, insurance, trust and investment, specialty lending and mortgage services to businesses and consumers interested in a deep relationship with their financial provider.

Recently, Pinnacle helped finance and shepherd through the development process The Skyliner, a new apartment building in Nashville that opened in 2023 to serve a mixed-income community close to downtown. It sits on a major transit route, offers many amenities popular in Nashville urban living and adds 147 units to Nashville’s affordable housing stock. This work was led by Rick Neal, a Pinnacle commercial real estate advisor who also serves as vice chair of the Tennessee Housing Development Agency.

For home ownership to change lives, the new owners must be financially fit enough for it. So Pinnacle associates provide ongoing education on early concepts like budgeting, savings, debt retirement and how to manage a credit score. After seeing how Pinnacle approaches home loan assistance, one community partner said, “Your people came through my meeting and crushed it, making my day!”

Navy Federal Credit Union

Navy Federal Credit Union serves more than 13 million members of the military and their families from its operations centers in Florida and Virginia, with 350 worldwide branches. The company offers a full range of financial products and services such as savings, checking, credit cards, loans, financial education and counseling, brokerage accounts, trust services, auto and personal insurance and small business services.

Navy Federal’s unique level of care extends to the environment, and the ways they encourage their team members to be good stewards of the earth. Last spring, their Greening Up team initiated an enterprise-wide sustainability challenge in which employees could come up with thoughtful solutions to create meaningful change, such as adding community composts to campus locations, upcycling household items and installing light sensors to reduce electricity use. The challenge finished with 500 participants, 35 challenges and 3,084 completed submissions. These climate ambassadors committed to pledges advocating for sustainability, increased awareness and education, and small incremental changes to their daily lives.

“Sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,” says Sherlyn Grecia, an assistant branch manager. “It's important to know how we can help in our own little way for our planet, for the next generation.”

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the United States. Their commitment to showing care for people inside and outside of the organization will have lasting impact for years to come.

A prime example: Over the past few years, Nationwide’s leadership witnessed its employees becoming increasingly concerned about their children’s mental health. In fact, 8 out of 10 working parents believe mental health challenges have increased in recent years. In an effort to provide support to parents as they navigate their children’s mental health needs, the Nationwide Foundation recently funded the creation of the Bloom program. Bloom is a free, confidential set of resources created by the behavioral experts at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The curriculum, which is part of a broader initiative for children’s mental health called On Our Sleeves, offers short courses that help parents and caregivers build mental wellness habits, start mental health conversations and recognize when kids need additional help. Nationwide associates were instrumental in helping to develop the curriculum as they piloted this effort and provided the hospital with critical insight into parents’ greatest needs. As of 2023, Bloom has transitioned from its pilot phase and is available to employers from all sectors, with no-cost to nonprofit organizations. The program earned the prestigious Halo Award for Best Health Initiative from the Engage for Good organization

Says a team member: “The culture is truly one of a kind, and we value people as our priority both internal to the organization, and in everything that we do. I have never been so aligned from a personal value and professional value standpoint and am very proud to work at Nationwide.”

MetLife

Established in 1868, MetLife is the largest life insurer in the United States based on life insurance in force. The MetLife companies offer life insurance, annuities and other financial services to individuals.

MetLife knows that a positive work environment begins with caring benefits, so at the start of May 2023, they launched a new Employee Care and Innovation Center of Excellence (COE), and introduced a new role: chief employee care officer. The goal of the COE is to design innovative, end-to-end solutions focused specifically on caring for employees. The COE is housed in HR, but aims to address every aspect of employee care across the enterprise. It supports employees in areas that span employee relations, DEI, learning and development, health and well-being, benefits, flexibility and other aspects of the day-to-day work experience. And while the COE is run by a centralized HR team, an enterprise-wide, cross-functional Employee Care Circle ensures its comprehensive reach.

“They genuinely care about their customers and stakeholders,” says a MetLife team member, “ about transparency and security. They use their resources to better their environments and use influence for good.”

Robert Half Inc.

San Ramon, Calif.-based Robert Half Inc. is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions and business consulting firm, whose mission is to positively change people’s lives by finding them rewarding work and to assist businesses in locating the talent they need to succeed.

In 2022, Robert Half launched its innovative People Promise, which includes four focus areas: well-being, career, connections and impact. The People Promise is the idealization of Robert Half’s values in action, providing a clear roadmap for investment in an employee's success. It also emphasizes Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Employee Experience, Operational Excellence, Talent Development, People Technology and Analytics. By the end of the year, Robert Half concluded that employee engagement was at an all-time high.

“Building a thriving workplace culture means putting our people first,” explains Senior Vice President of Human Resources Lynne Smith. “Providing them with an inclusive work environment, connecting them with opportunities to learn and grow and giving them the support needed to achieve work-life balance, a feeling of connection and overall well-being.”

Splunk Inc.

Splunk Inc. helps make the world’s largest organizations more resilient by keeping their digital systems secure and reliable on its unified security and observability platform. If you ask executives at the San Francisco-headquartered IT outfit the secret of their success, they’ll tell you: it’s the people — Splunkers, familiarly.

One way they honor their people: “Pwny Perks,” a global well-being reimbursement program named in honor of the company’s mascot, Buttercup the Pony. The program allows employees to choose from perks, activities and programs that can improve their well-being or create conveniences to make their lives easier. Receiving a reimbursable budget each quarter of $500, Splunkers have a range of eligible expenses that include fitness and health products, family support and financial wellness resources. To date, 90 percent of all Splunkers across the globe have submitted at least one claim, with travel, gym memberships and personal care being the top three reimbursement categories.

“From my first day at Splunk, I felt the strength of the organizational culture,” says a Splunker. “Splunk has a strong culture. I enjoy contributing to the business’s success, as well as helping my team achieve their goals.”

Dow

Midland, Mich.-based Dow manufactures a broad range of advanced materials that include plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones

At the beginning of 2023, Dow Chair and CEO Jim Fitterling wrote to all employees, thanking them for their hard work: “Your resilience, your adaptability and your commitment were on full display… and I want to thank the entire Dow team for all you achieved.”

Dow’s spirit of adaptability goes both ways, as demonstrated by the company’s introduction of Design Your Day, a post-pandemic approach to productivity. Seeing firsthand that many team members could be productive while working away from their typical on-site office settings, Dow launched Design Your Day, which enables each employee and their leader to collaborate on an individual workplace plan — based on an individual’s specific role and responsibilities — that maximizes their productivity and balances personal needs. DYD also extends to how employees dress, encouraging a commonsense approach geared toward authenticity and flexibility.

Tri Pointe Homes, Inc.

One of the largest homebuilders in the U.S., Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. is a recognized leader in customer experience, innovative design and environmentally responsible business practices. The company builds premium homes and communities in 12 states and the District of Columbia, with deep ties to the communities it serves — some for as long as a century.

Maintaining a sense of community is key to Tri Pointe’s business success, and the satisfaction of its team members. Tri Pointe’s Compass Club fosters a positive and inclusive culture by planning events that bring fun, purpose and value to their people and the communities they serve. This cross-functional team, with members at each of Tri Pointe’s divisional offices, embodies the H.E.A.R.T. (Humility, Empowerment, Authenticity, Results and Team) mission and values, recognizing and rewarding efforts, building relationships and strengthening teamwork. Through intentional and thoughtful planning, the Compass Club curates multiple events per month around fun and engaging culture-building themes, such as Random Acts of Kindness Week, National Adoption Month and holidays. They also engage the teams in charitable events like shoe drives, diaper drives and beach cleanups.

“The management in the company go above and beyond to support our success,” says a Tri Pointe associate “I appreciate the recognition for our hard work and dedication, and the team's ability to know what needs to be done and executing it well.”

Trane Technologies PLC

Trane Technologies PLC is a global climate innovator that brings efficient and sustainable climate solutions to buildings, homes and transportation, via strategic brands Trane and Thermo King, and a portfolio of environmentally responsible products and services.

In 2022, to inspire and enable its people to advance its corporate citizenship strategy around the world, Trane Technologies created Purple Teams. Among many other acts of goodwill, Purple Teams has partnered with Reading is Fundamental to collect and package backpacks with STEM-focused books, bookmarks, worksheets and handwritten notes for low-income schools. More than 200 Trane Technologies team members invested a total of 386 hours to help impact more than 11,000 students in 35 participating schools. That same year, Trane increased its philanthropic giving by 39 percent from 2021, to a total of over $15 million. Trane’s growing global network of dedicated partnerships support its mission to bolster access to STEM and sustainability curriculum among underrepresented students and to achieve a rich pipeline of diverse talent.

“We are literally helping change the world for the better with our products and Services,” says a Trane Technologies team member, “and are an example for all companies and communities to build diverse and inclusive environments that help people thrive.”

MCN Build, Inc.

Washington D.C.-based MCN Build offers pre-construction, construction management, general contracting and consulting services, and its transparent problem-solving approach and core technical competencies provide clients with the optimal construction partner from start to finish.

MCN Build and its employees put values into practice through the MCN Build Foundation. MCN’s dedicated philanthropic efforts allow employees to give back to the communities where they live and build, and to leave the world better than they found it. That means creating opportunities for children and adults who have been afforded fewer chances in life, by providing easier access to education, both locally and abroad. The MCN Build Foundation is a catalyst for the company to leverage experience and skills in construction to make the world a better place, one community at a time. The more than 20 nonprofits supported by the foundation include Bread For the City, DC Central Kitchen, St. Ann's Center, Wise Young Builders, Wreaths across America, She Builds, Dreaming Out Loud and Capitol Hill Ministries.

Says a team member: “This company has given me every opportunity to excel and utilize my experience to better the company. We hire great employees and give them great opportunities as well.”

Capital One Financial Corporation

The diversified financial services company headquartered in McLean, Va., puts its people first through fair pay, transparency, a commitment to diversity and opportunities for growth. And investing in its people allows Capital One to share the benefits with the larger community.

Capital One strives to share its greatest assets — associates’ talents, ideas and knowledge — with communities through direct support to local and national nonprofits. In 2022, nearly 14,000 associates volunteered more than 250,000 hours in their communities. More than 900 of those associates engaged in pro bono volunteerism, supporting 162 unique community partners (55 percent Black-led and 56 percent women-led organizations) delivering almost 20,000 hours of skilled advice, counsel and problem-solving to community groups and nonprofit partners.

“Capital One has created a culture where people can be fully themselves,” says an associate. “I have always felt like I have a voice, and that my managers and mentors are advocates for me. I look forward to coming to work, engaging with my peers and finding creative solutions to get the job done, all facilitated by the Capital One culture.”

Teleperformance USA

With nearly 500,000 inspired and passionate people speaking more than 300 languages, Teleperformance USA’s global scale and local presence allow the Salt Lake City-based professional services outfit to be a force of good in supporting communities, clients and the environment.

In March 2023, the TP Women resource group hosted events in Teleperformance locations across the country in honor of Women's History Month. TP Women set a hefty goal of $300,000 in clothing donation items through a professional clothing drive to benefit women entering or reentering the workforce. In total, more than 625 bags of clothing were donated in support of this cause, totaling more than $384,000 in gift-in-kind donations, far exceeding the initial goal. TP Women also installed 50+ new/expectant mother premier parking signs at the various Teleperformance physical locations to show appreciation for working mothers.

"Teleperformance is a great place to work,” concludes one team member. “Good management, approachable bosses and supervisors. [And] there are so many interesting activities. Indeed the best!”

Mediavine

Mediavine is the largest full-service ad management company in the United States, exclusively representing and monetizing more than 10,000 publisher partner websites with 1.6 billion monthly page views in addition to its owned and operated properties.

To mark National Foster Care Month 2022, and to honor team members who have direct connection to foster care, Mediavine launched its Nurture + Shine project. The goal of Nurture + Shine is to help children and families who are in the process of fostering or adopting receive the emotional and financial support that they don’t normally receive. In collaboration with Hello Bellow, Mediavine donated 6 months of diapers and household bundles to 25 families in the Denver area.

“I love how diverse and interactive the company is,” says a Mediavine team member. “I feel truly seen and I walk into work feeling like I have the proper support system to help me do my job to the best of my benefit.”

Power Home Remodeling

Chester, Pa.-based Power Home Remodeling is the nation’s largest, full-service, exterior home remodeler and culture powerhouse, committed to creating an environment where people don’t just live — but thrive.

At its core, Power views itself as a service organization, “because the deepest part of a Power person’s DNA is about serving others, without being asked and certainly without being told.” Power has maximized volunteer hours, the amount of goods they’ve donated and the dollars they’ve raised — and through a partnership with the financial investment firm Harvest Partners — established the Power of Giving Foundation, which allocated more than $5 million in charitable giving in 2023.

Power describes their slightly unorthodox foundation this way: “[Power of Giving] has no mission statement and has no parameters yet — and that’s on purpose. While it’s in its infancy, we want to learn from our people so that the Foundation is a reflection of them. What are the things employees are most passionate about? Where do they think these dollars can make the biggest impact? The Foundation will put up the dollars, but employees are in the driver's seat when it comes to putting in the action that is required to make those dollars meaningful.”

W.W. Grainger Inc.

Grainger is a leading broad line industrial distributor with operations primarily in North America, Japan and the United Kingdom, serving more than 4.5 million customers globally.

Recently recognized for the second time by Military Times as a Best for Vets Employer, Grainger has made great efforts to recruit, retain and support current and former service members, military spouses and military caregivers. Grainger’s Veterans and Military Supporters (VMS) business resource group hosted an event with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves (ESGR), a group that works to promote the unique talents and skill set Guard and Reserve Service members can bring to the civilian workforce. Grainger also joined the ESGR’s Statement of Support Program, which encourages employers to act as advocates for employee participation in the military. Grainger Chairman and CEO D.G. Macpherson formally signed the ESGR pledge to reinforce Grainger’s commitment to this organization and to those team members who have or will serve in the military.

“The friendly environment that Grainger fosters is what helps make this a great place to work,” says a team member. “Everyone is willing to cooperate with one another.”

Stellar Solutions Inc.

Los Altos, Calif.-based Stellar Solutions Inc. is a global aerospace and systems engineering services provider to commercial, defense, intelligence, civil and international sectors. The company values equity in the workplace and has committed to building a more diverse team.

In 2022, Stellar Solutions signed the Space Workforce 2030 pledge, a long-term commitment to improving diversity in the workforce and holding themselves accountable for measurable results. Members of this growing consortium of more than 30 companies meet at a working level twice per year for open discussions about progress and to exchange best practices. Annually, Stellar Solutions publicly shares aggregated industry data. In the past year they have already seen improvements in workforce diversity, especially at the leadership level.

“I believe I have a voice that is heard within the company,” says a team member. “I'm given the opportunity to build and grow within the company. Additionally, Stellar goes out of its way to recognize great work and looks for opportunities outside the organization for recognition.”

Vizient Inc.

Irving, Texas-based Vizient helps healthcare organizations improve their performance. It starts with Vizient’s mission, centered on assisting providers in achieving sustainable results, and a shared passion to think creatively about ways to improve America’s healthcare.

In 2022, Vizient launched two new diversity networking associations (DNAs). APIDA@Vizient supports and empowers employees who identify or relate to Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi-American heritage, while Dimensions@Vizient promotes awareness around intersected identities and elevates the voices of all employees with a focus on interwoven identities and lived experiences. And because DNA leaders add tremendous value, visibility and impact to the organization, above and beyond their day jobs, Vizient now compensates qualifying DNA leaders with an additional $10,000 annually. To meet the threshold, they must be in their second year of successful leadership and otherwise be in good standing.

“The volunteer opportunities and commitment to creating and maintaining our culture as a company has been amazing in my time here so far,” says a Vizient associate. “I have been here for over one year now and have had opportunities to give back to my own community — even though I work remotely — participate in wonderful webinars and discussions and attend team-building events.”

Toast, Inc.

Boston-based Toast Inc. powers successful restaurants of all sizes with a technology platform that combines restaurant point of sale, front of house, back of house and guest-facing technology with a diverse marketplace of third-party applications.

Toast is committed to the purpose: “Enrich the food experience for all.” That corporate philanthropy is fueled by Toast.org, which galvanizes people to participate in community service, support other organizations and restaurants making a difference, create products that improve the food landscape and help drive impact across the cause pillars “food, community and environment.” In 2022, Toast launched its inaugural Impact Grants program, directing $1.25 million in grants to nonprofits working to create an impactful and inclusive restaurant community and to address food security in communities around the world. This global grant-making includes more than $1 million from the company’s inaugural round of Impact Grants to 22 nonprofit organizations and $200,000 to organizations supported by 40 Toast.org local volunteer committees.

Say a Toaster: “The culture makes Toast a great place to work. People are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work and we keep our customers at the forefront in everything we do.”

ezCater, Inc.

Headquartered in Boston, ezCater is the leading food for work technology company in the U.S, connecting anyone who needs catering for their workplace to more than 100,000 restaurants nationwide.

At heart of ezCater’s corporate philosophy is a simple truth: “We love to help.” That means helping customers, partners, vendors and each other. It also putting team members in the best position to help others, which ezCater has done through active nonprofit support. Their donations include more than 300,000 meals to Feeding America through the CaterCares initiative; 140 computers to the Boys & Girls Club of America and the Girls Inc. nonprofit organizations; and more than $7,000 in food to the New England Center and Home for Veterans, Volunteers of America and the Winter Walk Organization.

“The culture, camaraderie, transparency and opportunities for growth and advancement are unparalleled compared to other companies I have worked for,” says a team member.

Atlassian, Inc.

As a leading provider of collaboration software for teams, San Francisco-based Atlassian, Inc. knows the value of working together to increase wins and unleashing the potential of teams.

When it comes to climate, this means helping other teams move faster to make a climate commitment. It’s not enough for Atlassian to reduce emissions; the company says it needs more businesses to get in the game now. So to make getting started easier, in April 2023 Atlassian released its “Don’t #@!% the Planet” resource, which lays out Atlassian’s own journey from establishing its sustainability program and setting science-based targets. The goal in sharing real-world experience is to provide a blueprint for teams to get started sooner and help others accelerate their current commitments, while empowering leaders to build momentum within their own companies — allowing everyone to move through roadblocks more quickly. The guide was downloaded more than 500 times in the first month.

Of Atlassian’s unique magic, one employee says: “It's hard to explain, but you feel it. I trust my forward-thinking direct executive leaders. This is the future.”

Workiva

Workiva is on a mission to power transparent reporting for a better world. The company builds and delivers the world’s leading cloud platform for assured integrated reporting to meet stakeholder demands for action, transparency and disclosure of financial and non-financial data.

Workiva knows that building a better world involves empowering employees around the globe to come together and give back. March 17 is the annual company-wide day of service. Last year, hundreds of employees banded together and participated in a variety of volunteer activities, like preparing meals at food banks, cleaning beaches, researching school curriculum for code.org, writing cards and more, serving more than 120 different nonprofits and tracking 2,484 volunteer hours. This paid day of service is also in addition to the eight hours of VTO every employee receives.

“This company truly lives by what it preaches,” says a Workiva team member. “Everyone here believes in the product and is willing to go the extra mile for customers. I feel seen as an individual and know I make a difference at our company.”

Lucid Software Inc.

Lucid Software is a leader in visual collaboration, helping teams see and build the future from idea to reality. With its products — Lucidchart, Lucidspark and Lucidscale — teams can align around a shared vision, clarify complexity and collaborate visually, no matter where they're located.

Every summer, Lucid hosts an internal hackathon, setting aside three days to work on Lucid-related passion projects. Any employee who wants to participate may join a team and then together choose a project to focus on. Projects range from features they believe will enhance product to fun gamification adds to moonshot ideas that change the technological trajectory of the company. The effects of the hackathon last long beyond the three days, renewing the company’s creative energy for months. The projects and new ideas can also guide Lucid’s collective vision for the remainder of the year. Since 2020, the Hackathon includes both in-person and virtual components, ensuring Lucid’s teams across the globe are able to participate, watch project pitches and vote on their favorites.

“When it comes to core values, Lucid walks the walk,” says a team member. “This company is unique in that aspect. As a new employee, I've never felt more welcome at an organization. My leadership is transparent, supportive, wise and approachable. Lucid is a great place to be, and I am super grateful to be a part of this phenomenal team.”

Roth Staffing Companies, L.P.

Roth Staffing, based in Orange, Calif.,is an award-winning, full-service staffing firm, driven by its company purpose: “To make life better for the people we serve.” The organization includes five specialized business lines that work independently or together to fulfill clients’ workforce management needs.

Giving back to the community is one of the cornerstones of Roth Staffing’s efforts to fulfill that company purpose. One of the most impactful community initiatives has been “Roth Food for Thought," where coworkers across the nation volunteer at local food banks in support of Feeding America. Through this year’s initiative, Roth saw a huge influx of participation, coworker engagement and more than 650 volunteer hours, surpassing the prior year’s effort.

As one team member describes the undeniable appeal of Roth Staffing: “A culture of belonging, outstanding leadership team and excellent opportunities for advancement and growth.”

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Houston-based Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is the global edge-to-cloud company that helps organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere.

To foster the spirit of community far and wide, HPE employs a program called Mystery Coffee. The program matches a team member with another HPE colleague from around the world based on similar interests and connects them in order to have a conversation – either virtually or in person. All team members are eligible to sign up and participate, and the program makes it easy by providing icebreaker ideas and setting up calendar invites. More than 4,000 team members globally have participated in this program to-date. And to promote peer recognition, HPE launched a tool called Star Point that makes it easier for team members to send e-cards to their peers and team and track recognition points to spend at an online store.

“The ability to be yourself and to voice your ideas and not be shot down [makes HPE special],” says an employee. “This company does a fantastic job of encouraging people to make change and we are supported all the way!

Sephora

Sephora is a leading global prestige omni-retailer, featuring more than 3,000 stores globally, with a mission to champion a world of inspiration and inclusion where everyone can celebrate their beauty.

As a beauty retailer, Sephora believes in the responsibility to help its consumers make sustainable choices and informed decisions about the products they purchase. That’s why Sephora continues to improve its assortment with science-backed innovations and eliminate unwanted ingredients via the Clean at Sephora standards. In addition, the retailer actively works with brands to help update formulas to meet distinct criteria. Partnerships with organizations like Novi Connect and ChemForward help bring these goals to life.

“I appreciate the opportunity to contribute at multiple levels,” says a Sephora team member. “My opinion is never discounted just because it might not be within my direct area of responsibility. The collaborative spirit and inclusivity make this a special place to work and something that I have not seen in previous employers.”

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.