July 2024 brings a range of holidays for businesses to engage employees and communities. Discover the history and ideas to participate.
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The Fourth of July is the big (hot) dog of this month's holidays. That doesn't mean there aren't lots of other opportunities for businesses to celebrate with their employees, customers, and communities in July.
From supporting American-made products on Made in the USA Day to slurping ice cream, this month offers something for everyone.
Some of these holidays, like Nelson Mandela Day, serve as a platform for companies to showcase their values and commitment to social responsibility. W
hether it's organizing a company picnic for Independence Day or participating in volunteer activities for Mandela Day, businesses can strengthen relationships with their team members and demonstrate their dedication to making a positive impact.
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
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Joel Joseph of the Made in the USA Foundation kickstarted Made in the USA Day in 1989 to encourage consumers and manufacturers to support American-made products.
The FTC first defined what “Made in the USA” meant in 1997. Essentially, to qualify for this label, "all or virtually all" of the product must be made in the United States.
If your company makes its products in the U.S., today is the day to shout it from the rooftops. Launch promotional campaigns, post to social media, and create in-store displays that showcase your American-made products.
You could even hold demonstrations of how those products are made so customers can better appreciate the craftsmanship.
Another way to celebrate is to give your employees a gift card to a local company that makes products in the U.S. The International Trade Association has a great resource of Made in the U.S.A products.
Thursday, July 4, 2024
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. The path to independence began on June 7, 1776, when Richard Henry Lee, a Virginia delegate, introduced a motion calling for the colonies' independence. Congress appointed a five-man committee, including Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, to draft a formal statement justifying the break from Great Britain.
On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Lee's resolution for independence, and two days later, on July 4, it formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, largely written by Jefferson. The Declaration proclaimed the 13 American colonies' liberation from Britain, reaffirming their rights as free men and declaring that they were no longer subject to the British monarch, King George III, but were now united, free, and independent states.
Businesses can celebrate the Fourth of July with a company picnic or barbeque for employees and their families. Consider raising flags and hanging other decorations at the office to make things feel festive.
Some companies encourage employees to participate in community service projects that align with the spirit of Independence Day, such as volunteering at a veterans' organization or supporting a local charity.
This is also a great opportunity to offer sales for customers and sponsor local events like fireworks displays or floats in the town parade.
Thursday, July 18, 2024
The United Nations officially established Mandela day in November 2009, with the first observance held on July 18, 2010.
Mandela Day serves as an annual reminder of the legacy left by Nelson Mandela, a man whose monumental achievements had a profound impact on the 20th century and continue to shape the 21st.
Mandela's unwavering commitment to human rights, freedom, and justice remains a source of inspiration for people around the world. He advocated for the inherent dignity and equality of every individual and encouraged engagement and solidarity across all borders.
To celebrate Mandela Day, businesses can engage their employees in volunteer activities within their local communities, focusing on projects that address social issues or support underserved populations.
Consider partnering with local schools or educational organizations to support literacy programs, mentorship initiatives, or scholarships, honoring Mandela's belief in the power of education.
Businesses can also use Mandela Day as an opportunity to review and strengthen company policies and practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming and fair workplace for all employees.
Sunday, July 21, 2024
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month and established National Ice Cream Day as the third Sunday in July. Reagan's proclamation wasn't just about celebrating a tasty treat — he wanted to recognize the dairy industry's contributions to the national economy.
The United States has a long history with ice cream, dating back to 1744 when the first mention appeared in a letter written by a guest of Maryland Governor William Bladen.
By 1777, the New York Gazette printed the first advertisement for ice cream in the country. Following the American Revolution, ice cream's popularity soared. Today, Americans eat an average of four gallons of ice cream per person annually, according to the International Dairy Foods Association.
Businesses can celebrate National Ice Cream Day by offering special promotions or discounts on ice cream products. Consider partnering with local ice cream shops or brands to create unique flavors or limited-edition offerings for customers.
Companies can also host ice cream socials for their employees, providing a variety of flavors and toppings for a fun and engaging workplace experience. This is a great opportunity to boost morale and foster a sense of community within the organization.
For businesses with a strong social media presence, running an ice cream-themed photo contest or encouraging customers to share their favorite ice cream moments can generate buzz and increase brand engagement.
Sunday, July 28, 2024
President Bill Clinton signed a resolution creating National Parents’ Day in 1994. Today, the Parents’ Day Council organizes events around the country to celebrate the occasion and gives out Parents of the Year awards.
Recipients are honored at a banquet in Washington D.C. alongside Congressional leaders.
To celebrate National Parents' Day, businesses can showcase their commitment to supporting employees' families by offering workshops that highlight the company's family-friendly benefits package.
These workshops can provide detailed information on policies such as flexible working arrangements, parental leave, childcare assistance, and subsidies for children's educational or extracurricular activities.
Businesses should also organize family-oriented events to honor parents and bring employees and their families together. Consider hosting a company picnic with fun activities like face painting, games, and a kid-friendly menu, or arrange a family movie night with popcorn and refreshments.
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