At The Merrimon Wynne House, Raleigh’s top venue for elegant and memorable corporate holiday events, we know the holidays are about more than just celebration—they’re about community, connection, and giving back. Hosting a corporate holiday party is the perfect opportunity to embrace the spirit of giving by incorporating charitable elements into your festivities. Not only does this strengthen your company’s values, but it also brings your team closer together as they work toward making a positive impact.

Here are five creative and meaningful ways to include charitable giving in your company holiday celebration.

1. Host a Holiday Donation Drive

Transform a portion of your holiday event into a collection point for much-needed items such as toys, non-perishable food, or winter clothing. Partner with a local organization like the Raleigh Rescue Mission or Toys for Tots to ensure the donations go to those who need them most.

How to Make It Special:

• Set up a festive “Giving Tree” where employees can hang gift cards or pledge items they plan to donate.
• Provide branded thank-you cards for employees who contribute.

2. Incorporate a Charity Auction

Add excitement to your celebration by hosting a charity auction. Encourage local businesses to donate items or experiences and invite employees to bid on them, with all proceeds benefiting a chosen charity.

How to Make It Special:

• Use our versatile Carriage House to display auction items elegantly.
• Hire a local auctioneer or let employees act as emcees to keep the energy lively.

3. Give Back Through Volunteer Activities

Dedicate part of your event to hands-on charitable activities. Create an assembly line to pack care packages for the homeless, fill stockings for underserved children, or prepare holiday cards for local nursing home residents.

How to Make It Special:

• Set up designated “volunteer stations” within the venue, complete with supplies and festive music.
• Capture team photos as employees work together, building camaraderie while making a difference.

4. Charitable Matching Gifts

Empower employees to choose their favorite causes by offering to match any charitable donations they make during the event. This not only multiplies the impact but also shows your commitment to supporting diverse causes.

How to Make It Special:

• Create a digital giving kiosk where employees can make their donations on the spot.
• Display a live tally throughout the evening to show how much the company has collectively raised.

5. “Party with a Purpose” Ticket Sales

Turn your holiday party into a fundraising opportunity by incorporating a ticket or raffle system. For example, offer entry to exclusive games or prizes for a small donation, with all funds going to a charity your company supports.

How to Make It Special:

• Work with our event planners to design customized raffle tickets or donation cards featuring your company branding.
• Share information about the charity throughout the evening to keep the cause front and center.

Celebrate the Season of Giving at The Merrimon Wynne House

At The Merrimon Wynne House, we believe the most memorable events are those that make a difference. By incorporating charitable giving into your corporate holiday celebration, you not only create a joyous and meaningful experience for your team but also extend that joy to those in need.

Our experienced event planners will work with you every step of the way to design a holiday party that’s as impactful as it is elegant. Contact us today to reserve your date and start planning an event that truly embodies the spirit of the season.