12/ 20/ 2007
As an individual in today's society, there are probably causes close to your heart, such as housing the homeless, feeding the hungry or raising money for cancer research. And as a small-business owner, you employ a group of smart, energetic people who might just be willing to take up a cause with you. You wouldn't want to force your beliefs and community efforts on them, but by stressing community involvement in your small business, perhaps you could get volunteers from your team to make an even bigger difference than you could alone.
There are many things your small business could do that would have a great impact on your company while also creating opportunities for team building outside of the office or storefront. You might even raise your profile in the community and drum up some business in the meantime.
Here are five ideas to get you thinking:
- Build a home. If you're a handyman at heart, or if you feel you missed your calling as an architect, groups like Habit for Humanity work all over the country to build affordable homes for families in need.
- Walk a dog. If you're an animal lover, and some of your staff members are, too, perhaps as a company you could block out a couple of hours each week to walk dogs at your local animal shelter. Staff volunteers could rotate shifts each week and get some exercise in the process. Find a shelter near you by visiting the ASPCA's Web site.
- Adopt a classroom. Perhaps you could serve as a mentor, offer your time as a tutor or provide supplies for a classroom in need. Talk to the school district in your community to see what opportunities are open and what needs your small business could fulfill.
- Contribute to a food bank. In many cities, food banks are connected to specific homeless shelters, but they also help feed the less fortunate throughout the community. Consider using your skills to help manage inventory, raise money or distribute food to the needy once a month.
- Go outside. Many city, county and state park departments have opportunities for volunteers to provide education, plant trees and keep the parks free from trash. Getting some fresh air while making a difference is definitely a win-win.
Getting involved in your community is a great way to do a bit of networking and marketing for your small business. But more than that, giving of your time and talent makes your neighborhood and your town a better place in which to live and do business.
For more ideas about ways you can contribute to your community, visit JustGive.org.
