As Thanksgiving draws near, now is a perfect time for business owners to consider how they can give back to their local communities. Supporting the community is one of the best ways to promote your business and spread the word about the services or products you offer. Not only will customers take notice, but other area organizations will be more willing to back your business when they know they have your support, too.
Let’s take a look at five great ways businesses can support their community during the season of giving:
Donate supplies and goods
Hosting a donation drive””whether it’s for food, clothing, toiletries, or other supplies””is a simple and easy way to make a difference in your community this holiday season. Before the cold winter weather sets in, many organizations will be seeking donated supplies and goods. Choose a cause that’s important to you and get your staff members together to collect donations. If your business makes products that can be donated, even better!
Volunteer
Recruit your team to participate in a volunteer day (or a few hours) out in the community. You could serve meals at a soup kitchen, sort donations, or participate in a pre-organized event. Get out and give back; it will give you a break from daily business operations and help to boost your staff’s morale.
Give back in time and talent
If a donation of money or product isn’t in your small business budget, consider lending your time and talent instead. As an established business owner, you have a unique set of skills that can help others, especially students and budding entrepreneurs. Share your time, talent, and experiences with others by hosting a continuing education workshop or event.
Promote other small businesses
Just as a rising tide lifts all ships, small business owners who look out for one another will benefit the entire community! Be a good neighbor to the other small businesses in your area by promoting their services or products whenever you can. Recommend the spots you enjoy frequenting to customers or on social media. You can also look for opportunities to collaborate with fellow small business owners on charitable projects, such as donation drives or volunteer trips.
Partner with local non-profit organizations
Joining forces with a local non-profit organization can be a powerful opportunity to improve your business and impact your community. For example, at Ohio Valley Goodwill, our Industrial Services Division was developed to provide business owners in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and Southeast Indiana with affordable and effective outsourcing services. From assembly to kitting to fulfillment and packaging services, our large, experienced workforce is dedicated to helping your business improve processes while reducing overhead costs.
Most importantly, the businesses that outsource with Ohio Valley Goodwill’s Industrial Services Division become a part of our social mission to provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. A partnership with Ohio Valley Goodwill is a partnership that will change lives!
Make your business better through outsourcing! Contact us at Ohio Valley Goodwill to learn more about our services and receive a free tour of our facilities.