Business Connections by Adams

6 S P R I N G 2 0 1 9 G iving back to the community feels great, and many companies see it as “the right thing to do.” But did you know it can also be a profitable thing to do? Here are just a few of the benefits of volunteering for and donating to local organizations: • Improved image. Companies that give back are perceived as having integrity and a community spirit. This goodwill can translate into more business. • Stronger employee engagement. Studies have shown that most employees aren’t fully engaged with their jobs. But, the good news is, company giving can contribute to fuller engagement. More engaged employees provide better service, leading to more business for you. • More networking opportunities. Through the process of volunteering or donating, you get to know others in the community. Expanding your network is a great way to spread the word about your company. Companies can help local organizations in multiple ways. Be creative to come up with ideas that work for your company and local organizations. Here are some suggestions to get you started: • Donate and/or match employee donations. Organizations that help those in need are always looking for donations. Your company can contribute directly, provide a match when your employees make a donation, or do something fun like throw a party for employees if a certain dollar amount is reached. • Volunteer and/or help employees to volunteer. Discuss with organizations you want to assist how your company or team could put in hours as a group to help. For example, your team could spend an afternoon working on a Habitat for Humanity house. Or you could allow employees to choose their own organizations and give them time off to volunteer. • Offer services. Providing your products for free or at a reduced rate is another great way to contribute to local organizations. • Serve as a “middle man.” You could make your business a drop-off location for donations of needed items such as food, school supplies, or hygienic items. • Use social media. Use your Facebook, Twitter, and other social media accounts to announce fundraising events, suggest donating to a particular organization, or simply tell a wider audience more about what they do. To find organizations that might be a good fit for your company to help, contact your local Chamber of Commerce or check out websites like volunteermatch.org, allforgood.org , and idealist. org. Adams gives back to our community in a variety of ways including volunteer hours and financial and in-kind donations. Now is a great time to get involved with local organizations The Business Benefits of Giving Back