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Business owners and community leaders, often question how to give back to the community while keeping the bottom line in the black.  It is crucial that companies give back to those organizations that work to improve the community.  Companies – regardless of their size – are able to support community organizations in a number of ways. 

Monetary Donation

The most frequent request received from many organizations is for monetary support. Many organizations have a lean operating budget.  This being the case, they seek financial support from the businesses in the community.  When deciding whether to support an organization financially, there are several things to consider.  First, you want to research their financial track record.  Does the organization utilize the money responsibly? Request a copy of the organization’s annual report.  If they do not have a printed annual report, request to review their financials from the previous year.  As a 501 (c) (3), an organization must provide the information upon request. Next, ask the organization about its plans for the money.  Will the money be utilized for administrative support or a program?  It is important to remember that as the donor, you are able to decide the use of the funds. 

In Kind Donations

Some organizations contact businesses requesting specific in-kind donations.  This is a way that small businesses are able to provide a donation without directly providing money.  One way that a printing company provides in-kind services is by donating $2,000 in printing services to a local organization.  An advertising and PR company designs one PSA per quarter for an organization it supports. 

Fundraising

Many organizations host annual fundraising events.  Businesses are able support these events in several ways.  If you are a caterer, offer to provide your services at low or no margin.  If you are an event manager, provide pre-event consultation to the organization.  Be creative and donate part of your proceeds from a particular product to the organization. 

Volunteering

Many organizations have a small support staff.  If you provide a professional service – why not offer to provide this service on a volunteer basis.  This will ensure that the organization has an expert completing the task rather than someone less experienced.  If you are an accountant or an auditor – are you able to provide this service to an organization in your community?  If you are a web designer are you able to provide site development and maintenance to an organization in your community?

Now that you have an idea of how you are able to support one or more community organizations, you want to determine which organization(s) you are interested in supporting.  What is the organization’s mission?  Is this a mission you believe in and want to support?  Does their mission align with your business mission?  If this is the case, the organization may be a good match.  As a company gives back to a community, it will gain positive press – increasing its exposure.  

The Savane Group assists businesses in maximizing its community donations.  For more information visit www.thesavanegroup.com.