Investing in the Community with Sweat Equity

By Tina Adelstein | Jun 01, 2022 |

People can accomplish more together than any of us can on our own. At Brighton Jones, our philanthropic success is measured by the opportunities we create to help our clients achieve their personal and social impact goals—and this goes for our employees, too.

Four Brighton Jones employees holding shovels at a Compassion in Action event

Building Community Together

Trust is a key component of what we call the “Winning Formula” and giving back to our community is a cornerstone of our company values and overall mission. Encouraging employees to volunteer together at organizations in the community that they’re passionate about was an obvious way to foster fun and trust within the workplace, and it has proven to be a worthwhile investment for the company and amazing use of employee time.

“People are happiest when they’re doing things for others.”

Jon Jones, CEO and co-founder

The Employee Benefit

Brighton Jones offers unlimited paid time off for volunteering and a $25 match for each hour served. We also offers a generous donation match program and nonprofit board member training for employees who aspire to serve on a nonprofit board of directors.

2021 Compassion in Action Impact Report

Real Volunteer Stories

Last year, our employees were able to provide tremendous impact to their local communities and organizations. Hear what some team members have to say about their passions for volunteering.

Karlie CalvinKarlie Calvin, Senior Tax Associate

“The Unlimited Volunteer PTO program has been a huge game changer for me! The program allows me to be purposeful and intentional with the time I spend giving back, because there is no need to choose between my two passions: traveling and volunteering. Previously, I would have to pass on volunteering during the work week, because I wanted to make sure that I had enough PTO to travel, but now most of my volunteer hours are earned throughout the week. The program has allowed me to serve as first a member and now co-chair of the board of directors for Yoga Behind Bars. I also volunteer at other nonprofits such as CHOICES and my sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, among others. I did not realize how big of a difference the program made until I was named one of the five top volunteers at Brighton Jones. What I love is that the company gives its time, talents, and money to philanthropy, and the Unlimited Volunteer PTO program is a great example of that contribution.”

Kristen PurnellKristen Purnell, Director of Growth and Operations

“One thing that make Brighton Jones so special is our commitment to community. The unlimited philanthropic time-off we receive allows me to focus on several organizations I support. One is, Project 34, an organization committed to easing the financial burden for people who suffer spinal cord injuries, supporting them through physical therapy, adaptive devices, and home updates. I helped found the organization in 2018 and have committed many hours to creating the 501c3, structuring the bylaws, planning fundraising events, and reviewing and completing grant applications. I have always felt empowered to take a day or two off to spend time with the team or block an hour in the afternoon for a meeting. Other team members have also dedicated their time to fundraising and volunteering. I’m grateful for this opportunity and the support to focus on critical work.”

Matt CamrudMatt Camrud, Senior Lead Advisor

“As a longtime member of the Brighton Jones team, I have been fortunate to experience firsthand the genuine commitment we have to our community and the causes we all care deeply about. I’ve had countless opportunities to serve our community with Brighton Jones’s support, but one experience stands out. The United Way has hosted an annual Day of Caring in the past (pre-COVID), and I had the opportunity to spend a day one-on-one with several members of Seattle’s homeless population. I was able to hear their stories, learn from the adversity they’ve had to face, and then help them find the services they need to live a better life. Whether it was getting them a haircut, finding a new pair of shoes, sharing a hot meal with them, or connecting them with housing or healthcare resources, I felt like we were able to make a highly positive impact on these individuals’ lives. And, having the support of my employer to create this impact made it even more moving and powerful.”

Let’s talk

Whether you have a specific question, or you’re interested in learning more about how our approach can be tailored to your situation, we’d love to hear from you.