How Charity Can Result In A Stronger Work Culture

This article is a reprint of Wise Bread's contribution to OPEN Forum from American Express -- where small business owners can get advice from experts and share tips with each other.

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When we started our company it was important to me to bring the concept of giving into everything that we do, as it has always been a fundamental aspect of our lives as a family. With each new hire we share how we give a percentage of company profits to charities close to our hearts. We provide monthly updates to our staff, with pictures and tangible evidence of our company’s efforts.

Charity is its own reward, of course. But we’ve found that involving our employees in our company’s charitable giving has helped us build a stronger culture and has improved our teamwork.

If you’re thinking about implementing a giving program, consider the following three principles.

1. Make a Commitment

Set aside a specific percentage of all profits the company earns to be given to a worthy cause. Whether it’s 1% or 10%, make a commitment to always give this portion to the chosen organization. As a company, we donate 10% each month to several groups that we chose early on to give to.

2. Get Everyone Involved

Give to organizations and causes your staff cares about. Does someone know a family in need? Become a “Secret Santa” during the holidays. We’ve adopted single mothers and struggling families as our target charities during the winter holidays. These efforts have been a great motivator and help us stay focused when we might have otherwise lost our drive due to holiday parties, gift shopping, and family visits. Making a big impact in someone else’s life gives everyone a reason to work harder.

3. Get Local

Don’t forget to get involved in something local. If you partner with a small, neighborhood organization, you and your staff can focus on something closer to home instead of a distant “charity we donate to.” For example, every year our staff partners with an organization that feeds the hungry and the homeless during Thanksgiving. And because much of our staff works remotely and have to travel to be here for the event, it’s a good time to reconnect with far flung colleagues. What a great thing to be thankful for during the holiday season!

Giving motivates, it inspires, and it encourages us all to think beyond our personal challenges, obstacles, and frustrations. Giving is a huge part of big company growth and healthy inner company relationships. Make a difference, give as a company, and share the wealth and the wisdom with someone else.