Philanthropic Identity at Work: Employer Influences on the Charitable Giving Attitudes and Behaviors of Employees

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Philanthropic discourse is increasingly present in the workplace. Given that one’s identity is often shaped by work, employees are likely to be influenced by the discourse and activities of their philanthropic-minded employers. This case study, as part of a larger project, used qualitative methods to explore how one employer may inform and influence individuals’ philanthropic identity, as evidenced by employees’ perceived changes in their charitable attitudes and behaviors since employment. Findings revealed that the workplace and workplace interactions strengthened employees’ philanthropic values and influenced behaviors in ways that both increased time and money donated and shaped decisions about charity choice. In summary, the corporation both enabled and encouraged the enactment of an employee identity that reflected a philanthropic self.