How to Include Generosity in Your Business Model
“One person is lavish yet still grows richer; another is too sparing, yet is the poorer” (Proverbs 11:24).
I sat in the Dunkin’ Donuts with my six-month-old son, nervously looking down at my hands. I was supposed to be meeting with the executive director of a local nonprofit and the vice president of the board. I wasn’t sure how I could help them out, but I knew I wanted to be involved in some way. My thoughts were interrupted when a police cruiser pulled up. Out came a tall brunette in uniform. A short blonde woman exited her own car and happily greeted the police officer as they both entered the coffee shop.
My husband had met the executive director (the short blonde) through his boss and had relayed to me how impressed he was by her organization, her leadership, and the agency’s sustainability. He knew they were looking for new board members and encouraged me to reach out and express interest. I didn’t expect a captain of the local police department to be on the board, but here she stood in front of me, introducing herself with an inviting warmth.
I tickled the baby’s toes as I tried to hide my awkwardness. How could I, a busy mom and freelance writer, make any contribution to this domestic violence agency?
The two women lit up when they saw the baby, easing my anxiety as I realized that they were genuinely interested in getting to know me and how we could work together. By the time we finished our meeting, I felt motivated and empowered. Here was an opportunity to impact our community, to meet people outside of my bubble, and to serve others with my capabilities.
The two greatest resources we can offer through our business and personal life is our time and our money. Fortunately, no matter where you are in your business—just starting out or well established and even expanding—generosity can always be a pillar of your business model.
Getting involved with charities and nonprofits has practical benefits beyond the spiritual call of serving the poor and destitute. There is an opportunity to network with others beyond our comfortable circle and to showcase our professional skills outside of the office. Most importantly, it is a direct way to share the Gospel. Here are a few ways you can incorporate generosity as a business practice:
Volunteer Your Talents
All nonprofits need volunteers who share a passion for the cause. Volunteers can bring more visibility to the organization, while the staff serves more as the “boots on the ground.” It doesn’t matter what your background is; writer, schoolteacher, banker, real estate agent … all of these occupations bring a diversified skill set that can contribute. For example, I have offered my time writing and editing the annual appeal letter, designing flyers for the annual fundraiser, and promoting awareness on social media.
Become a Sponsor
Whether it’s for a one-time event or an annual commitment, sponsors usually provide funds in return for free marketing. Potential clients like to see your business logo or name on a list of sponsors; it shows your interest in something beyond making a profit. People who share the same cause in their heart will start to associate your business with charitable motives, which is a powerful message.
Consider Joining the Board
Board members often are the biggest donors to a nonprofit, but they also direct its governance, deciding collectively on new initiatives, the expansion of services, budget items, and more. Depending on the nonprofit, serving on the board isn’t necessarily a huge time commitment, but it does usually involve board meetings and fundraising initiatives. It’s a wonderful way to become involved at a leadership level.
My involvement with Phoenix Project brings me fulfillment, knowing I am contributing to a better community. It is a privilege to share my talents, compassion, and time with an organization directly serving people who need a loving hand.
Kimberly Lynch is a former French teacher who ventured into the world of copywriting and freelance writing. She enjoys a strong cup of coffee in the morning, and a good book in the evening. Kimberly is also the fundraising chair and board member for Phoenix Project, a local domestic violence agency. She resides in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia with her husband and seven children.