Is there a word or phrase that is said often at your workplace?

For a unique fundraiser challenge your employees to donate a certain amount every time they say the chosen phrase or word.

Consider this 2020 Twist: Coronavirus Swear Jar – Each time an employee mentions the Coronavirus they make a donation! Encourage employees working from home to have their own jar at home to play along.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: – A clear jar or some type of container that can be placed in a central area of your business.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the jar in an open area and decide how much people should put in each time they say the “buzzword”

2. Send out an email explaining ground rules to fellow employees.

3. Keep the swear jar out for the duration of the workplace campaign and share total dollars collected at the end of the campaign.

Suggested entry fee: $1-$2 each time the phrase or word is mentioned (outside of a necessary mention)

EQUITY CONSIDERATIONS: This challenge should be optional and care should be taken to address negative comments or micro-aggressions. If chosen buzzword is related to the Coronavirus pandemic, take into consideration employees who have been personally affected. 

ACCESS: For companies working virtually, another tallying system should be considered.

MOBILITY ISSUES: Jar for collection should be placed in an area that is easily accessible to accommodate any mobility issues employees may have (lower to the ground, easy to add change too, etc.). 

ABILITY ISSUES: None

Questions? Interested in having a United Way staff help host this special event with you? Contact Ashley Renee Hampson, Marketing & Engagement Director at Ashley.hampson@uwloraincounty.org or (440) 277-6530. 

Virtual Option: Ask employees to submit their favorite recipe and ask your team to vote on the one they’d most like to try!

Recruit the best chef’s in your workplace and ask them to showcase their BEST recipe at your special event. Accept donations at the entrance of the event and encourage your other employees to attend and vote on their favorite recipe.

Potential Challenge Ideas:

• Chili Cook-Off
• Bruch Off
• Best Barbeque
• International Food Festival

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Location for a special event
• Ability to keep food warm or cold during the event
• Proper sanitation materials and utensils (plates, silverware, gloves, napkins, disinfectant, etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Recruit and hold a sign-up for the best chefs in your workplace and set a date.
2. Promote the fundraiser and communicate the donation entry fee.
3. Determine judging system – either attendee voting on their favorite dish, or pick a few people in your workplace with expert palate’s to pick the best dish!

Suggested entry fee/donation: $5-$10 donation per person, or pledge to donate during the campaign!

SUGGESTED PRIZES:

•  Company branded swag!
•  Gift Cards to a local store or restaurant
• Tickets to a local sports game
• Bragging rights and a certificate of “The Best Chef at [Your Company’s Name]”

EQUITY ISSUES: This challenge should be optional and care should be taken to address negative comments or microaggressions regarding different types of food.

ACCESS: Will need access to an event space, employees will need access to a location either in your offices or at their homes to prepare their featured dishes. Care should be taken when serving food, all potential allergens in food should be posted clearly during the event. Consider asking employees to register for the event and indicate their dietary restrictions so you can label all dishes appropriately.

MOBILITY ISSUES: The event should be hosted in a location that is accessible to everyone regardless of mobility issues. 

ABILITY ISSUES: None

Questions? Interested in having a United Way staff member help host this special event with you? Contact Ashley Hampson, Director of Marketing and Engagement, Ashley.hampson@uwloraincounty.org, or (440) 277-6530.