Giving back - does your business have a budget for it?

Giving back to the community is always a good thing. While there may not be any money in it, the satisfaction and benefits far out-weigh the monetary value. 

Many business owners are inundated with requests for donations whether in cash or prizes, on a daily basis. While this seems to be a nuisance to the business owner, it should be a valuable part of your marketing strategy. 

By donating prizes, money, your time, or services in kind, your business can be exposed to many potential new customers as well as open the door to many new connections within the community. As we mentioned the requests are many and can be overwhelming and costly.

Here's what you can do:

1. Determine the type(s) of causes you are willing to support. - Almost everyone has a cause that hits home... 
2. Set a yearly budget for your donations - stick to your budget.
3. Choose organizations and events where you will receive the most exposure for your donation - logo on website, print material or announcements at the events. 
4. Promote the causes you are helping through your own social network, in your store and by word of mouth. 
5. Encourage your employees to participate in the events. 
6. Consider sitting on a board, giving your time rather than your dollars. Almost every organization could use a helping hand and expertise in various areas. Again, choose something that has meaning for you or your staff. 

By doing some of these, your generous donations will be more beneficial to both you and the cause you are supporting. 

Debi Katsmar and PRowl Communications regularly donate to a number of causes throughout Niagara. We regularly donate our services as shown in the image above for a few flyers, we share the information through our social networks and we donate prizes for local events on a regular basis. Debi is also the President of the Upper Canada Equestrian Association, a director with the Port Colborne Wainfleet Chamber of Commerce, on the marketing committee for Networking Niagara, one of the founding members of the Niagara Trails Committee, a member of the Greater Niagara Circle Route Committee, and a past director on a number of different boards including the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Niagara, Club the Netherlands, and Port Colborne Saddle Club. Giving back to the community keeps our business strong.