As the year comes to a close, many of us consider how we might allocate our resources to support charities doing important work. Regardless of what is going on in the world, with the economy, or even in the politics of our time, giving is always good business. It’s good for the community, good for the economy, good for the nonprofits and the causes they serve, and ultimately, good for the donor.
This is a time when we can put aside our divisions and become united in our commitment to create a stronger future by sharing our talents or monetary blessings. How and when to give are personal choices that should align with our values and our capacity. But the decision to give is always a good one.
For individuals, giving is a reminder that regardless of what we have or what we lack, the ability to express gratitude is within our reach. For business owners, it is a way to make a difference and support a more vibrant community.
As a nonprofit leader, I have seen this in action. Our business community has been a key driver behind the growth and innovation of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County programs and services. With the generous support of companies large and small, we have launched new mobile resources, increased workforce development efforts, and continue to nurture the hopes and dreams of thousands of young people each year.
I am particularly inspired by a number of local entrepreneurs who, in pursuit of the American Dream, built successful companies, creating both jobs and a positive economic impact. They attained success for themselves and their families, and then went further, in very intentional ways, establishing cultures of giving within their organizations. That has included encouraging and, in some cases, incentivizing their employees to make charitable contributions and share their talents.
When we teach employees what it looks like to give back and how to actively engage in the community, we create society, a neighborhood, and a lived experience. The symbiosis of that partnership goes even deeper when business provides leadership on nonprofit boards and gets employees involved.
When organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs partner with business, it allows the young people we serve to explore career paths, examine workplace cultures, and gain a better understanding of opportunities that might be available to them. It informs their view of the world and allows them to explore questions about where they would like to work and what that might look like. It creates a stronger future workforce.
I’m proud to live in a community that demonstrates a deep commitment to its nonprofit partners. I encourage our business leaders to continue to look for opportunities to invest time and resources and engage their employees in work that serves the community—not just during the holiday season, but year-round. We all have something to share with the world, and when you’re the one who’s giving, you’re getting as much—if not more—in return.
