Employee Engagement Calendar - December 2022
December 9, 2022by Carissa Harrison in Workplace Wellbeing
Important dates and employee engagement ideas for the month of December.
World AIDS Day - December 1st
Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day. Today it provides an opportunity to unite in the fight against HIV while supporting those affected by it and commemorating those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. World AIDS Day reminds the public and governments that HIV has not been eradicated and there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight stigma, and improve education.
Engagement Ideas
- Educate yourself and your team about the prejudice and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
- Donate to a national organization dedicated to AIDS research and awareness in your area:
Special Education Day - December 2nd
Special Education Day is celebrated in the United States to commemorate the signing of the nation's first-ever federal special education law on December 2nd, 1975. Today we celebrate Special Education Day to show support for those who learn in unique and special education, thereby improving teaching and learning for all students.
Engagement Ideas
- Have an open conversation with your team about the prejudices, stigma, and biases associated with special education.
- Donate to an organization that supports those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Listen to stories and amplify the voices of people with disabilities.
Wildlife Conservation Day - December 4th
World Wildlife Conservation Day raises awareness and engages conversations about species that are endangered or nearing extinction due to poaching, trafficking, or environmental pressures. Wildlife conservation is the act of protecting endangered and near-extinct species by preserving their natural habitat. World Wildlife Day is an opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that their conservation provides to people.
Engagement Ideas
- Attend a beach, forest, or city cleanup with your team.
- Challenge your team to eat sustainably on this day.
- Re-evaluate your organization's current sustainability plan, seeking to improve upon the environmental pillar.
Human Rights Day - December 10th
Human Rights Day is observed by the international community every year on December 10th. It commemorates the 1948 United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights proclaims a broad range of fundamental, inalienable rights and freedoms to be guaranteed to individuals everywhere, without distinction based on nationality, gender, ethnic origin, religion, language, or any other status.
Engagement Ideas
- Reflect on human rights issues that are most important to you and your organization.
- Donate to or volunteer with your team at a local social organization fighting for human rights in your community.
First Day of Hanukkah - December 18th
Hanukkah (also spelled 'Chanukah') is an eight-day winter "festival of lights" which begins each year on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev, meaning it commences on December 18th of this year. The eight-day celebration commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Many Jewish families now celebrate Hanukkah by spending time with family and friends cherishing food, connection, tradition, and spiritual faith.
Engagement Ideas
- Learn about the history of Hanukkah and its importance to the Jewish people.
- Consider incorporating Hanukkah décor into your office holiday display.
- Try using a neutral greeting like "Happy Holidays" to remain inclusive of all traditions.
Christmas Eve - December 24th
Christmas Eve marks the beginning of a week full of Christmas and New Year festivities. Traditionally a pagan winter celebration celebration called Saturnalia, and then a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas and Christmas Eve are now celebrated by people from various religious, secular and cultural backgrounds.
Engagement Ideas
- Celebrate Christmas Eve with a day of rest and reflection.
- Spend time with your loved ones if possible.
- Practice gratitude for all the gifts in your life and try to soak in the magic of the season.
Christmas Day - December 25th
We at CheckingIn wish you a very Merry Christmas! Christmas is not simply a day to exchange gifts. It is a time for giving and togetherness, a time to think about others, and a time to take stock of what's most important to us. It can be time for healing and renewed strength, a time of connection and celebration. We hope you take good care of yourselves and your community this holiday season.
Engagement Ideas
- Throw a holiday office party to get in the festive spirit.
- Gift your colleagues a small token of appreciation or set up a secret Santa exchange.
- Volunteer as a team with a local charity or participate in a Christmas hamper drive for struggling families.
- Remember that this day can be painful for some people; reach out to someone for whom this is a difficult time of year.
New Years Eve - December 31st
On December 31st, many people worldwide celebrate the last day of the Gregorian calendar and gather in eager anticipation of the coming new year. In many countries, New Year's Eve is celebrated with dancing, eating, merriment, and fireworks. While the arrival of a new year can provide an opportunity for self-improvement, it is important to keep goals attainable and remember that you are always worthy exactly as you are.
Engagement Ideas:
- Celebrate those you love.
- Take some time to set intentions with our 5 Days of Intentionality program.
