Why Businesses Donate to Their Communities
Most businesses that line the streets in your community donate to local nonprofits. After seeing a manager comp an entire Cub Scout troop lunch, my observant, verging on astute, second-grader asked, “Why did that man give the Cub Scouts free lunches?”
Not only is that a great question, but it is also testimony that businesses like to help their community. Many businesses believe it’s important to give back to their communities by donating to local nonprofits. This way, they can help to improve the lives of their customers, employees, and neighbors.
Donating also improves its image in the eyes of its customers, employees, and the community. This can lead to increased sales, improved employee morale, and a stronger reputation. It worked on my second-grader—she’s already talking up Chick-fil-A to anyone who’ll listen.
Customers are more likely to do business with companies or small businesses that they believe are giving back to the community. By donating to local nonprofits, businesses can attract and retain customers who are passionate about supporting their community. In the same light, employees are more likely to want to work for companies they believe are making a difference in their community—and they know in advance they’re not joining a team that doesn’t have any social responsibility.
Speaking about social responsibility, there are business owners and managers who donate to nonprofits for the tax deduction. Whatever the reason, donating to local nonprofits benefits the community, which helps stoke growth.
By giving back to the community, businesses that help fundraise can improve their image, attract and retain customers and employees, and gain tax benefits.
Businesses That Help Businesses Fundraise
Many local businesses and national chains help fundraise within their communities. They help with fundraising efforts, volunteer their time, or donate items to nonprofits. What’s the catch? You have to ask. Generally, they require only a written request on company letterhead or filling out forms to request a donation. They don’t always advertise this service, sometimes you have to do some sleuthing. Good news, we did the hard work for you. Here is a list of businesses that help fundraise.
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Big Box Stores and Retail
Nearly every retailer or corporation has a giving program to help fundraise, They may offer matching gifts, community grants, donation requests, and even volunteers. Many local vendors will give in-kind donations, swipe cards, or cash donations. Below is a short list of some of the most popular companies that will donate to your fundraiser. Have a company in mind? Just do a Google search for the name of the brand and donations, such as: “Nike Community Donations” or “Nike Giving Program.”
Restaurants
Restaurants offer many ways to help raise money. Ask about fundraising nights, gift card donations, Giving Tuesdays, or in-kind donations. Need an event catered? Just ask—have your 501-C3 info in hand. If you don’t have that, check anyway, many will still donate platters or other items for your event.
Grocery Stores and Food and Beverage Donations
Other businesses that help fundraise give food or sponsor the event. Grocery stores will often donate food for your event. They also give in-kind donations, swipe cards, cash donations, and gift cards. You can request larger funds from the national site, or your local store will give smaller donations at the service desk. Food or beverage companies will often donate products or sponsor your entire event.
Museums, Entertainment, and Hospitality
Hospitality and entertainment venues offer free passes, free memberships, event space, fundraising nights, overnight stays, and rental cars for your event. Just ask!
Direct Sales Companies
Think Avon and other catalog sales companies. They often offer in-kind donations or portions of campaign sales. In fact, they are pro-fundraisers as it provides exposure for their companies.
Sports Teams
Offer free tickets, memorabilia, free food, and drink, or opportunities to work concessions.
So get clicking and find the perfect donation type for your community event. Businesses have set aside money to help fundraise in their communities. All you have to do is ask! Good luck.
