Giving and volunteerism

Giving and volunteerism are at the epicenter of our work as IBMers and are foundational to our commitment to supporting our local communities.
Group of volunteers working in community charity donation center

Our initiative

Senior woman volunteer cleaning up street with team

Continuing a legacy of service and innovation

IBM’s first CEO Thomas J. Watson declared a “duty to the community” as an imperative for IBMers in 1931. While our strategic focus as a company has and will continue to evolve to help the world work better, IBM's culture and values have persisted.

IBMers are committed to engaging with purpose-driven initiatives through our signature volunteer programs that align with our priority areas of education and social innovation. IBM also has a comprehensive, global giving program that allows us to provide expertise, technology, and funding to support these priorities and make a significant impact on those with the greatest need. As part of this program, IBMers are encouraged to take time away to volunteer, with paid volunteer time off and volunteering rewards.
Stories of impact
Portrait of Kim Cook-Boyd
Kim Cook-Boyd

Raised to believe she could make the world a better place, Kim turns that belief into reality through community volunteering. 

 Read Kim's story
Portrait of Gian-Luca Fenocchi
Sathya Mukka

Sathya’s 49 blood donations have been life-changing for patients in need and have inspired others to follow his example. 

 Read Sathya's story
Portrait of Alexandros Korkovelos
Rebeca Campos Marques

As the first in her family to earn an undergraduate degree, Rebeca now supports initiatives that help others do the same. 

 Read Rebeca's story