As a business owner, it’s easy to assume that you have to be a nonprofit in order to get involved in the world of philanthropy. However, your business doesn’t have to be centered around a particular cause in order to give back. By building a company culture that values generosity and doing good for the community, you can make a difference no matter what type of business you’re in.
But how can you as a leader incorporate these kinds of values into your company culture? Here, nine business leaders from Young Entrepreneur Council offer their suggestions for easy ways businesses of any size can make philanthropy part of their company culture and the impact this has on your employees and your company overall.
1. Implement A ‘Give Back Day’
One easy way businesses can make philanthropy part of their company culture is by implementing a “Give Back Day” or a designated time for employees to volunteer together for a cause. This allows employees to actively contribute to the community and make a positive impact outside their regular work responsibilities. It fosters a sense of purpose, unity and pride among employees, creating a stronger bond and shared values within the company. By integrating philanthropy into the company culture, businesses demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, inspire employee engagement and contribute to a more fulfilling work environment. – Andrew Saladino, Kitchen Cabinet Kings
2. Provide Monetary Incentives For Participation
Businesses of any size can make philanthropy part of their company culture by providing monetary incentives to their staff for participating in local charity events or in any charitable opportunities. For example, for any number of hours or time an employee willingly spends in service, the company can match it with a donation. This builds goodwill and increases employee loyalty toward the company, and allows employees to band together for a higher purpose beyond corporate roles and hierarchies, helping to develop team cohesiveness. When employees can contribute to meaningful causes, it creates a sense of purpose and fulfillment, improving job satisfaction and employee motivation. – Brian David Crane, Spread Great Ideas
3. Allow Employees Time Off To Volunteer
One way for businesses of all sizes to incorporate philanthropy into their company culture is by providing employees with leave credits to engage in such activities. By allowing employees to take time off to volunteer or contribute to charitable causes, businesses demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. This initiative fosters a sense of purpose and empathy within the company culture, encouraging employees to actively participate in philanthropic endeavors. The impact of this approach is twofold: Firstly, it creates a positive image for the business, showcasing its dedication to making a difference in the world. Secondly, it strengthens the company culture by instilling a shared value of giving back, promoting teamwork and enhancing employee satisfaction and engagement. – Pratik Chaskar, Spectra
4. Start An Employee-Led ‘Charity Of The Month’ Program
I believe an easy way to integrate philanthropy is by starting an employee-led “Charity of the Month” program. Allow teams to select a cause they’re passionate about. This not only fosters engagement, but it also promotes empathy and teamwork. The ripple effect is profound: It uplifts company culture, reinforces a sense of purpose and shows that the business cares about more than just profit. It’s about giving back and making a difference—together. – Michelle Aran, Velvet Caviar
5. Make It Part Of Your Mission Statement
A strong mission statement can help make philanthropy part of your company culture. This creates alignment with the organization’s values and actions. When philanthropy becomes an integral part of the company culture, employees are more likely to feel motivated and engaged. They can take pride in working for an organization that prioritizes social responsibility. Furthermore, having a mission statement that includes philanthropy can attract like-minded individuals who share similar values. Potential employees who are passionate about philanthropy may be more inclined to join a company that explicitly states its commitment to social initiatives. This can help in attracting top talent and building a team of individuals who are not only skilled but also driven by a sense of purpose. – Eddie Lou, CodaPet
6. Incorporate Philanthropy Into Your Product Sales Or Supply Chain
Some businesses donate a portion of all sales toward charitable causes. Others focus on revenue from specific product lines. Alternatively, you can source materials from suppliers who donate some of their profits to charities. This enables you to incorporate philanthropy into your supply chain. With any philanthropic initiative, make it a talking point in customer service, sales and marketing conversations. You’ll find that your staff are much prouder of the work they do when they know their work is helping to contribute to greater causes. – Firas Kittaneh, Amerisleep Mattress
7. Volunteer As A Unified Team
Organize companywide volunteer days! These events allow employees to come together and participate in community service activities. By engaging in meaningful volunteer work as a team, you foster a sense of purpose and solidarity among employees and promote a culture of compassion and social responsibility. – Jennifer A Barnes, Optima Office, Inc.
8. Generate Awareness For A Cause
Generating awareness for the cause and educating employees about it is the best way to make philanthropy a part of your company’s culture. Making an impact isn’t something you can do alone; it requires a collective effort. So, no matter how much you believe in something, you may end up accomplishing nothing if your team is not on board. So, educating them about the set philanthropic values will pave the way for you to acknowledge the desired culture. – Jared Atchison, WPForms
9. Lead By Example
First and foremost, lead by example. Show your team what it looks like to step up to the plate, regardless of a busy work schedule and personal life. Show them it’s possible to achieve a healthy work-life balance and help others. Get involved in your local community, and encourage your team to serve as well. This might look like hosting a company outing to volunteer at a charity, or even paying your employees for the time they spend helping. You can also lead by example by challenging other successful business people who have more financial resources to get involved. Through your example and encouragement, you can create a purpose-driven company culture focused on giving back. – Blair Thomas, eMerchantBroker