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2025 Talent Conference & Expo
 

To attract today’s top candidates, companies must go beyond traditional benefits and demonstrate a genuine commitment to their employees' well-being and community impact. This session delves into how strategic corporate giving—aligned with employee support and company mission—can enhance talent selection by building a workplace culture that draws high-quality, values-driven candidates.

Abagail McKiernan, community leader and founder of multiple socially responsible initiatives, will share insights on creating a meaningful, purpose-driven workplace that resonates with the modern workforce. Attendees will learn how corporate giving, when strategically aligned with mission and talent acquisition goals, helps companies stand out to job seekers who prioritize culture, empathy, and shared values. Through real-world case studies, participants will see how prioritizing employees’ needs and aligning with community initiatives can drive both recruitment and retention success.

Learning Objective 1: Attract Talent with Purpose-Driven Culture: Understand how corporate giving and community alignment create a unique culture that resonates with top talent.

Learning Objective 2: Align Giving with Talent Goals: Discover methods for integrating mission-based giving into your recruitment strategy to attract candidates who align with your company values.

Learning Objective 3: Enhance Employee Loyalty from Day One: Learn how mission-focused giving and a culture of care strengthen employee commitment, resulting in smoother onboarding and longer retention.

 
Date(s) & Time(s): 
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Presenter: 
Abagail McKiernan
Founder; Executive
HelpLink
Connect Online with this Speaker

Founder of Spark in the Dark & Co-Founder of HelpLink.

As the founder of Spark in the Dark, a nonprofit connecting individuals in need with resources, I've spearheaded a movement that has empowered over 30,000 members and 18 volunteers across Michigan, facilitating the resolution of over 100,000 needs since 2017. With a mission to enable direct assistance anytime, anywhere, Spark embodies the power of community support.

Recognizing the need for businesses to maximize their social impact, I co-founded HelpLink, a platform revolutionizing corporate philanthropy. With HelpLink, I'm passionate about streamlining corporate giving, ensuring businesses can support local causes while prioritizing the needs of their employees. Our innovative approach fosters a culture of giving within organizations and communities, enhancing brand reputation and driving meaningful change.

As an entrepreneur committed to driving social impact through technology and innovation, I bring over 12 years of experience in marketing, public relations, and nonprofit leadership. Named one of the 2022 "40 under 40" to watch in Northern Michigan and recognized as one of the region's most influential women, I've been honored for my dedication to community building and philanthropy. Additionally, Spark in the Dark was awarded the 2020 Torch of Ethics by the Better Business Bureau and selected as one of 77 organizations worldwide for the 2020 Facebook Community Accelerator, receiving direct training from Meta (Facebook).

SESSIONS:
Session Type: 
Breakout Session
Intended Audience: 
Beginner

Source URL: https://sessions-cron.shrm.org/conference/2025-talent-conference-expo/session/attracting-top-talent-through-purpose-driven