Black Dog Coffee's, Brian Bircher (photo by Aeroka Media Marketing)
Do you have a passion for a certain charitable cause, wished you had more time to help others, but were too busy running your business? Well why not make it your business to give back? Today is the day to be the change you want to see, and hey, it’s a great promotional tool as well!
Include in your business plan a giving mission. Not only will giving back in the name of your business help you work with a purpose, but by doing so, you are marketing your business, raising the bar on your brand reputation and growing a client base. Personally, I would rather do business with a company that gives back, especially to my community.
Here are a few small business examples that might inspire you:
Black Dog Coffee: Brian Bircher is the Roast Master of Black Dog Coffee. Based in Summit Point, WV, he roasts and sells his coffee beans online, in retail establishments, and delivers locally. His passion is helping the Charlestown Rotary Club. This club helps local charities, such as arranging a Day of Caring, as well as help the larger Rotary‘s worldwide mission to end Polio. Also, Brian volunteers with Shannondale & Beyond, an historical and nature preservation entity. By donating his coffee, serving it at fundraising events, and being hands-on in charity projects, he has found purpose. His added bonus: a great reputation and a growing client base. In his social media efforts, he is able to spread word of his works and products, and is currently planning the expansion of his business.
DISH: Last weekend, Doug Vaira just celebrated his first year in business by giving a tour of the local farms from which he purchases his menu ingredients. He is the owner of Dish, a new American bistro in Charlestown, WV. Along with fresh local meats and vegetables in his menu, Doug also sells Mountaineer beer, and brews Black Dog coffee. On October 22nd, he will sponsor a dinner/open mic night that will raise funds for Community Alternatives to Violence. He also volunteers as a soccer coach for a local JCYSL girls team. His customers are loyal, and, besides his tasty menu, much of that is due to his enthusiasm and breathing new life and economic development into his town.
Green Hill Farm: Nick Frobouck’s farm is Located in Sharpsburg, MD, right near the famous Antietam Battlefield. This year he started the Annual Springfest and Fall Festival, both events to showcase great local music, food and small businesses. All money goes to support Loggers and Farmers Inc, a 501c3 organization formed to help in the financial support of families of loggers or farmers where there has been injury or loss of life. In early October, the two-day Fall Festival brought hundreds of folks from the area to see some excellent rock, reggae and blues bands such as Jah Works and the famous Nighthawks.
How you can start:
- Find a local charity: Check out Network for Good. You can do a location search by zip code and review the list of local charities to inspire you with ideas on how your business can give back.
- Throw recession-era events: Raising money to feed hungry, gather blankets, gift donations, and throwing Pink Slip parties.
- Volunteer in your community: Local schools, support local teams, animal shelters…the list is endless.
Tell us how is your business is already giving back. If not, are you planning to soon? Helping your community should be part of your business plan. The benefits of raising your brand, getting new and loyal customers who share your passion, plus free marketing - priceless!
