The 3,300-hour impact: How Deloitte and Pilotlight are building stronger communities

Client: Pilotlight

Deloitte, in collaboration with Pilotlight, has implemented a transformative two-phase programme to strengthen local communities. This initiative, part of Deloitte’s Social Impact programme, connects its 23 UK offices with local strategic charities for a three-year period. The first phase involved identifying and recruiting these local charity partners. Here we used Pilotlight’s expertise in the sector to ensure an efficient and robust selection process, crucially streamlining the process to minimise the burden on charities. Charities were shortlisted based on their potential for local impact, and alignment to Deloitte’s strategic focus areas, with Deloitte employees voting for their office’s partner.

The second phase engaged Deloitte employees in skilled volunteering through two Pilotlight initiatives: in-person “Impact Days” and virtual/hybrid “Catalysts.” These programmes addressed critical operational challenges such as income generation, marketing, and operational efficiency, while fostering collaboration, diverse perspectives, and professional growth among participants.

The partnership achieved significant outcomes, with 540 Deloitte volunteers contributing over 3,300 hours. Charities received solutions, enhancing their resilience and service delivery, while Deloitte employees developed skills, strengthened team cohesion, and deepened community connections. With high satisfaction rates, this co-created initiative exemplifies the power of combining corporate expertise with sector knowledge to drive meaningful social change.