Local Charities and Business

Today more than ever local charities are hurting for donations, sponsorships, and money. So as a business owner which charities, if any do I want to put my hard earned dollars toward. This question approaches every year and the answer can be a difficult task, especially in a down turned economy. Here then is my new economical solution. First, if you have placed in your yearly budget a donation amount then use those funds to help local charities that benefit your immediate community they need the funds the most. Second, if you have the time volunteer to help local charities for giving of oneself is the most selfless act a person can give. Third, connect with other businesses and create a pool of giving either monetary, product or services. Lastly, if you offer a service that can be donated and someone can utilize at a later date via gift certificate or gift card then hook up with a local charity fundraising event and offer a door prize or auction item. This later giving offers your business two opportunities, one you are helping your community need and two you are expanding the awareness of your business to your community so it is a win-win relationship. Now here is the most important part of a business giving; only give what you can and understand it is okay to say no this time around when finances get better you can expand your giving, but now is the time to stay in business so you can provide the local charities more in the future.
We all inherently want to give it is our human nature to help others in need. So the next time a charity contacts you ask yourself does this help my local community, does it satisfy the need that I am passionate about to help fight, and do I have the time and resources to help without jeopardizing my business, and finally as a business does it highlight my company to my local community as a partner and contributor.

"We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give." -- Winston Churchill