Corporate Engagement in Population and Disaster Protection Surges in North Rhine-Westphalia

A recent 2025 report by ZiviZ in the Stifterverband reveals that corporate participation in population and disaster protection efforts in North Rhine-Westphalia has more than doubled since 2018, reaching 25% of companies. This marks a significant increase in societal engagement among businesses in the region.

The report shows that 59% of companies remain engaged in sports-related activities, followed by education at 43% and leisure at 39%. However, the rise in involvement in population and disaster protection highlights a growing focus beyond traditional areas. Most companies channel their efforts locally, with three-quarters engaging in their immediate communities, primarily supporting children, youth, financially disadvantaged individuals, people with disabilities, families, and their own employees.

Larger companies tend to implement broader and more intensive engagement activities, including donating employee time, while smaller firms mainly contribute through donations. Companies in smaller communities also tend to collaborate more with local organizations, whereas urban firms spread their engagement across various themes.

Andrea Milz, State Secretary for Sports and Volunteerism, noted that many employers encourage and support their employees’ volunteer work, which benefits both society and the companies themselves by enhancing employer attractiveness and employee retention. Looking forward, over 20% of companies plan to expand their engagement, while nearly three-quarters intend to maintain their involvement. The findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and civil society to foster sustainable corporate social responsibility efforts in the region.