Western Digital Foundation FAQs
What is the new program called?
Western Digital Foundation
What are the key philanthropic focus areas?
The three global focus areas include:
- Education for under-privileged and underrepresented youth
o Focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
- Hunger relief
- Environmental issues
In addition, we will support programs benefitting U.S. Military Veterans
Who will be our Signature Partners?
The legacy SanDisk Signature Partner program will not be continued, but we will continue to support those legacy Signature Partners whose missions are aligned with a key philanthropic focus area of the new Foundation through grants and team volunteer events. We also encourage employees to continue to support those causes close to their heart.
Will there be individual volunteer matching? What will it look like?
No, the individual volunteer match will not continue. Our recent survey results showed employees have the most positive sentiment about volunteering when it is done in a group. This has helped guide us to the decision to move forward with team matching and end the individual volunteer match. Due to the scale of the new Company, focusing resources on the team match will make a more significant impact on the community organizations and causes close to our hearts.
When is the last day for individual volunteer matching?
The last day for the individual volunteer matching will be the end of the calendar year, December 31, 2016.
Will there be team volunteer matching? What will it look like?
Yes, there will be opportunities for employee teams to earn grants for nonprofit organizations through volunteering. We want to encourage employees to “do it together” both at work and in the community, unifying this vastly larger team. To qualify for a volunteer grant, teams will need to be a minimum of 5 employees. There is no maximum number and the donation to the NGO/NPO will scale with the size of the team. For remote employees, there will be online opportunities such as student mentoring and tutoring that will count as “team” volunteering.
Will product donations continue?
Yes, product donations will continue for schools and nonprofit organizations in the U.S.
At this time, we are developing a process for a global product donation program that meets Compliance and Export regulations.
Western Digital HR Communications – Internal Use Only – CONFIDENTIAL 2016
Will there be employee cash matching?
Employee cash matching will occur as communicated by the Western Digital Foundation e.g. for disaster relief campaigns.
Will the United Way Campaign continue for legacy WD employees in the U.S.?
No, we will not move forward with this campaign. This decision allows for us to dedicate more funds for employee volunteer events globally.
What is the new grant cycle? Where do I send a nonprofit or NGO organization to apply for a grant?
Grant applications are considered twice each year and only online applications are accepted. We have expanded the radius of eligible applicants based on the expansion of our business presence. More information on updated grants program will be available in December.
Will we have the opportunity to volunteer during the workday?
There will be opportunities for employees worldwide to volunteer at events held during the workday. We ask that employees obtain approval from their immediate supervisor prior to participating in team volunteer events during work hours.
Will my manager support my volunteer efforts?
Senior leadership, including Steve Milligan, CEO, recognizes Western Digital’s responsibility to respond to the needs of our local communities. There is support at all levels of the company to inspire a culture of community and giving around the world.
What were the key findings from the employee survey on volunteering?
97% of respondents who participated in company organized volunteering were very satisfied or satisfied with the experience. One respondent expressed it this way: “Thanks for providing us the opportunities to support our communities as a team! It is important for everyone to know that someone cares. Keep up the great work!”
Over 70% majority of respondents are motivated to participate in volunteer activities because they want to care for others and support a social cause, but they also see it as a good way for the company to “do the right thing” and live its corporate values.
Respondents are most active and interested in team activities and cite interacting with other people as a top reward for participating in volunteer events.
More than 95% of respondents agreed, strongly agreed, or were neutral that future volunteering and corporate giving should have an increased focus on educational opportunities for disadvantaged and under-represented youth in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
There is a positive and statistically significant correlation* between participation in company-organized team volunteering