TRU EVENTS launches its first US Unconference April 19-20 in WI. The Unconference trend-it’s all the rage! What is an unconference? An unconference is a facilitated participant-driven face-to-face conference around a theme or purpose, says Kaliya, author of The Unconference Blog. The unstructured sessions, the encouragement of open dialogue and debate, and the intensity of meeting with like-minded people is invigorating. Bill Boorman, and Geoff Webb co-founders of the Tru Eventsbring this international sensation to the United States.

I am delighted to lead a track at TRU USA about Compassionate HR, and the importance of steward leadership. As Gerry Crispin said, world class recruiters are not just people who are good at their jobs. They are professionals who are doing great things in their community. What I’ve learned since I launched my blogtalkradio program is that people who are engaged in volunteerism be it through their industry, or by participating in global humanitarian efforts are being fulfilled. I believe there is a causal relationship between corporate supported humanitarian efforts, and employee retention, attraction, motivation and recognition. I’ve been waving the flag of steward leadership, and this was validated when I attended the ERE Expo in San Diego last week.

In future posts, I will chronicle the companies and individuals who spoke about their humanitarian efforts. Corporate responsibility is not just a buzz word. It’s compassion in action.

As a part of my presentation at TRU USA, I will share detailed accounts about the inspiring experiences of the companies, and people who are doing spectacular things in their communities. Whether your volunteer efforts are local, or global, every act of kindness counts.

How do we empower our workforce? Help them to feel apart of something bigger than themselves. It doesn’t cost a dime to organize a day of volunteering at your local soup kitchen, shelter, or unemployment office. As human resource professionals, each of us can do our part.

Just say yes to service, you’ll be glad you did.