Have you ever thought about giving back to the community? You’ve worked hard to build your business and somehow feel you should be giving back in some way. There are four great ways to share your success with the world and create win-win situations for yourself and the community.

Charitable giving is a great way to network with like-minded people and market yourself. People like to associate themselves with people who share similar values. It’s a great way for people to help each other. You help raise awareness and money for non-profit organizations supporting good causes and in return, you receive publicity and tax write offs.

Four Easy Ways to Grow Your Business with Charitable Giving

Tithing. Traditionally, tithing refers to donating 10% of your income to the church. However, donating money to charitable causes is similar in concept. Tithing always involves giving of your money (whether you have a lot of it or not) which is demonstrating your faith in God, the Universe, or in your higher power, that you know there is enough financial abundance for everyone and that you will be taken care of no matter what. So let go of your fears and give to a good charity. Even a small amount like $1 makes a difference. Take your spare coins to Coinstar (a coin counting kiosk) at your local supermarket, which takes your coins and donates to charities of your choice, like The Red Cross and March of Dimes. Feel good about your donation and know that you’re making a difference. The very act of tithing will help your business grow.

Choose a Charity You Believe In. Pick a cause that has significant meaning to you- an organization or movement that you personally connect with, whether it be finding the cure for cancer or a non-profit organization to help the homeless. Choose an organization, movement, or charity that you’ll be enthusiastic to help. By doing so, you’ll find giving your time and money to be personally rewarding. The very act of giving will bring about positive karma and growth for your business.

Use Publicity to Associate Your Name With Your Charity. While donating for good causes is altruistic and rewarding, there’s no reason your business shouldn’t benefit from the exposure. Help your marketing by getting involved in high-profile causes to attract the media’s attention. Announce your involvement in your charities through your marketing materials, wear paraphernalia from your cause, and ask your charity to recognize your support in their publicity efforts.

Invite Your Charity to Market Your Products or Services. Accelerate your marketing and help your charity with a few simple products or services. Invite your charity to sell your products and keep part of the proceeds. In addition, ask your charity to sell tickets for special sales or events and donate 100% of the proceeds to the charity while you enjoy increased traffic and exposure.

Create win win situations for everyone by donating your time, money, and services to charitable causes and watch your business grow! M.E.B