In the current social climate it’s becoming increasingly important for companies and businesses to exercise and demonstrate social responsibility towards the community in which they reside. Consumers have always had the decision and purchase power which modifies the market as society evolves. Data shows that the current social trend is shifting and customers are gradually getting more inclined towards businesses or companies that support initiatives or projects for the benefit of the environment and the community.
In addition to building a good image (and complying with CSR), supporting the community also leaves your customers and collaborators feeling good by helping them fulfill their desire to help others and make a difference.
Although there are many ways to support your community, it’s still difficult if you don't know where to start. This is why here we give you three great ways on how businesses can start doing their part.
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Donate; Time, money, or resources.
Donations are always a simple and good way to support the community; be it an organization, training program, or even a little more direct approach such as sponsoring a home with toys, clothes, and/or food. If you’re interested in improving your local economy, you can donate money to schools, educational programs, or initiatives with the purpose of stimulating the entrepreneurship landscape through programs that train, prepare, and innovate businesses to make them grow. There are companies that prefer donating resources such as clothing and food or even donate their time to help clean up public areas, build homes for low-income families, or volunteer in community centers.
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Sponsor and/or organize events:
Perhaps your business is small and you don't have enough money to donate or sponsor. That’s why some businesses organize events such as fairs, BBQ’s, bakery sales, and bazaars to raise money that will be donated to a cause or project. There are many other businesses that focus on sporting events and organize cycling races, soccer tournaments, or marathons of 5, 10, and 15 miles that help, not only by improving the health of citizens, but also by raising funds to support an important cause.
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Support cultural events:
Cultural events in small communities are extremely important. It provides citizens with a space to relax, make good memories, and enrich themselves culturally. These local events can be anything; from concerts, plays, international performances, dance shows, arts & crafts markets, local art exhibitions, even cultural school festivals from those in the area! You can support them with resources, money, volunteers, providing the space, donating your time, sponsoring the event merchandise (like shirts or water bottles). There are a million things needed to successfully carry out an event and you can help cover many of those necessities. People will appreciate the dedication and support you provide to improve your environment and seek community well-being.
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If you are a small or medium-sized local business, supporting initiatives that improve your community is very important to get to know and get new customers, it can also help create a network of frequent and loyal customers to your brand. Being environmentally conscious is also part of social responsibility and it's another area you could focus on. By reducing plastic use, utilizing recycled materials, placing solar panels, installing water-saving features, etc. you can also make people feel like by being your customer or working together with you they can leave a mark and make a difference in the world.
Together we lift each other up, so what are YOU doing to improve your community?
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