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If you own a small business, you can have a positive impact on your community. Your town or city needs the loyal support of those who live and work there in order to thrive. By giving back, you can make your community a better place to live. Here are some ways to help your community.
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1. Inspire the Youth in Your Area
There are a number of ways you can have a positive impact on the youth in your community. Cane Bay Partners VI, LLLP, a consulting firm, contributes to youth development organizations such as Junior Achievement. Or you can speak to high school classes or invite two students each year to work as interns. By working with the youth, you can inspire them to greater aspirations and maybe get a few loyal employees in return.
2. Organize Donations
Run a food drive. You can donate them to your local food bank during the holidays when the need is greatest. You can also collect donations for school children, including pencils and crayons as well as notebooks and other needed supplies. Children are the most vulnerable members of your community. With a little organization, you can make a big difference in their lives.
3. Offer Free Courses
Help those who lack the skills to obtain a better-paying job by offering free courses in software programs or other practical skills. Or share your knowledge about starting and running a successful business. Many people dream of having their own company but don’t know where to begin. You can provide them with valuable knowledge that can get them started.
4. Organize a Clean Day
While your employees are on the clock, have them go out and clean up the neighborhood where your business is located. You can have T-shirts printed your employees can wear and make it a fun day. They can pick up trash or paint a park bench. They can even plant flowers. You’ll have a beautiful area, and your neighbors will appreciate your efforts.
5. Volunteer to Help Others
Enlist your employees to volunteer for the same project. Or, you and your employees can volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and work on a low-cost home. You can also organize a company-wide blood drive or help serve meals at a homeless shelter. There are bound to be many nonprofit organizations in your community. Find one whose values most closely mirror your own and reach out.
6. Join Together With Other Local Businesses
Partner with a local business that complements yours. For example, if you sell flowers, you can partner with a photographer. Hand out coupons for your partner’s business offering a 10% discount. Your business partner could do the same. That way, you’re supporting each other and making the community stronger.
When you and your employees give back to your community, your staff members are filled with a sense of purpose and satisfaction. It gives everyone a better perspective of the needs of your community. You and your fellow citizens are better for it.
