For many people, running a business isn’t just about making money, it’s about creating an opportunity to make a difference to other people’s lives. Here are some ideas for how to get your business involved in some philanthropic causes.
I’m back! After a few weeks of head down and bum up to organise our big book launch party last Thursday night I am finally back to writing regular articles again. I’m glad I’m not an events manager, there is so much to think about, prepare and organise. And then the event is over in only a few hours and all you are left with is a mess and wonderful memories.
The book launch party was all about giving back, so I thought what better topic to write about than ‘giving back’ and making a difference through business.
By now you probably know that I am a huge fan of social business and believe that through business we can make a massive difference. It is much easier to sell something and donate a part of the profit to philanthropic causes than asking people to donate without offering them anything in return (except for feeling great of course).
Let me give you some of our own practical examples to illustrate this. These are not to brag, but to show you how easy it is to make a difference and contribute through business.
Last year we raised $24,000 for the Queensland flood victims by putting on a fun event with live concerts, comedians, speakers, live art and an auction with top prizes. The entry to join the entertainment was $25 (cheaper than a rock concert) and all proceeds from entry and auction went to the cause. Again, this has been possible only because of the effort of a few businesses who helped organise the event and donated prizes.
Our book launch party last week was dedicated to National Whale Day and all proceeds from book sales and auction went to that fabulous cause. Another project we support is a school for underprivileged kids in South Africa, to which some of our clients donate their skills such as book-keeping, IT support, health advice and building a library. This is something everyone can do and has a huge impact on those in need.
There are so many ways for businesses to get involved in good causes. Besides feeling amazing and doing good for others, your prospects and customers will feel more excited to get involved with a business like yours.
Life and business are not just about making money and getting rich, they’re about contributing and doing the best we can. If everybody incorporated giving into their company culture, the world would definitely be a better place (sounds quite cliché I know).
Giving is fun and it attracts generous people that care. There are so many courses, workshops and programs out there that teach you how to get rich quick in your pyjamas but one thing they are missing is to care and give a damn about our society. I am positive that happiness and fulfilment don’t just come from being stinking rich, but from what you do with your richness. Plus the more wealthy you get, the bigger a difference you can make! So yes, making lots of money should be your goal so you can make an even bigger difference.
I would love to hear your comments on this topic below. How do you make a difference, do you donate your skills, time, funds to a good cause?
