Businesses, especially small ones, can usually be found at the core of the community. They are often the first places approached by organizations looking for sponsorship and involvement of any kind. Support takes many shapes and sizes; it could be for volunteers for community projects, financial contributions to minor sports teams, promoting the arts in schools and the community, donations to auctions and fundraisers for those in need, and much more.
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There are several reasons why many businesses step up to the occasion when the opportunity arises. Here is a brief list of the reasons why MONK Renovations provides support:
- PRIDE IN COMMUNITY: Sometimes it simply boils down to helping local organizations grow and individuals to develop their talents. Seeing others succeed and knowing that you played a small part in their success is personally satisfying!
- MARKETING: Sometimes providing support can be more strategic, for marketing purposes, or to bolster the reputation of the business in the community. Any type of exchange can be seen as a mutually beneficial partnership. For example, if an existing client approaches you for support, stepping up to the occasion demonstrates that you are a business that truly cares.
GENEROSITY: I learned from a previous employer and very generous company, that often giving should be anonymous. Nobody needs to know except for you! This is the type of contribution that can be the most fulfilling for business owners. This means you are expecting nothing in return, it is pure, and given with a generous heart.
I have always seen charity and community support as being part of the social contract that we, as businesses and as individuals, have with each other. We should support those in need. It has been quoted, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” I was born and raised with this mindset and believe it to be true. I also believe that even the smallest contribution, if given with a kind and generous heart, is as valuable as any other. We give what we can and support our fellow human beings in their time of need or to help boost them to the next level.
I have been extremely fortunate growing up with a generous and supportive community, that raised me up both financially and emotionally. Through their actions, they showed me what is right and what is expected. I am eternally grateful for the support I received from my community, friends, family, church, coaches, teachers, and many others. They helped shape my appreciation and commitment to philanthropy, regardless of how big or small.
Over the years, I have had the privilege to give back to my community in various ways. This includes university bursaries, sponsorship of individuals and teams, school musicals, senior’s groups, medical research, local charities, specific people in need, and the list of opportunities goes on. In recent years, our philosophy has evolved as we have evaluated how we approach community support and wanted to focus our efforts more. This means we are involved and attentive to the select organization we select to support year-over-year. This has truly changed the impact of our contribution! With this level of focus, we have developed a greater sense of community and built stronger relationships. This allows our business to become more than just a source of money, but a valuable partner to the organization. We are proud to see the effects of our presence and commitment help them become better connected, expand their impact, and prosper.
I would like to discuss one challenge faced by most business owners. In some cases, those seeking funding solicits financial support from a business and suggests it is simply a ‘write-off’. This phrase saddens me as it is suggesting that their support is no big deal, and the donation comes at zero cost to the small, local business. Honestly, this could not be further from the truth and this assumption comes from a place of ignorance and is offensive. When businesses choose to give generously, they give money they have earned and the only thing they get in return is not having to pay the corporate income tax on the donation. The money is still removed from the business and there is no ‘refund’ from the government. Whether you are approaching a business or speaking to an owner who supports social causes, it is important to remember not to diminish their generosity by saying such foolish things.
For anyone who has read this article, I hope it provides a little inspiration to be generous and give back to your community as a business or an individual.
by Dan Monk