Looking at the amount of money I have donated to nonprofits this year, it’s clear that I still donate to organizations making the world a better and safer place. They are organizations I love, whose work I deem as impactful.

I donate to them because their cause is embedded in my heart and soul.

That’s not the only reason people, or companies, give.

I continually think of this idea every time I’m at one of my local chamber of commerce meetings. I like to talk about nonprofits, and use my tagline “your favorite nonprofit needs you”.

I like talking with business owners about the value of philanthropy, of supporting causes near and dear to them and their business.

There are many ways for any size of business to support a nonprofit. The simplest way is to go onto their website and click the “donate” button. It’s typically on the main page in one of the upper corners.

Then let your clients or customers know. If you send a newsletter to those who use your business, your philanthropy could be a quarterly topic: “These are the nonprofits we donated to this quarter”.

Don’t forget the why. Tell those reading why you donated to this particular nonprofit. You can even engage them to consider donating as well.

Attending a fundraising event is another great way to support a nonprofit and your business at the same time. Purchase a ticket, or even a sponsorship, and arrive knowing how you are going to speak with other guests about your business and why you choose to support this organization.

If they have a silent auction, donate a fun item. Make sure the “donated by” is your company name.

All of this puts focus on your business.

Sure, I’d love it if everyone donated to a nonprofit because they love the mission and are in the capacity to give.

It doesn’t take away from the donation, or what the nonprofit can accomplish with the donation, if you use it as an opportunity to share about your business and what you business can do for those who are also engaging with the nonprofit.

Your clients and customers will take notice, along with potential future clients and customers. You really never know how much community this will build for you and your business, or when that will occur.

If you like what I’m writing about but can’t think of a nonprofit you’d like to support, reach out to me and we can talk it through. I’m sure there is an amazing nonprofit exceling in their mission who you would want to support right in your community.

Take a risk. Be of service. Support your friends and colleagues. Be kind.

Written by Dan Hanley

Need more info? Contact Dan at dan@altrui.org