During "the most wonderful time of the year," there's no better time for your business to give back, whether to your employees who have worked hard all year, or to a local charity your company supports.
Six entrepreneurs from FounderSociety (FS) share the ways they like to give back during the holidays.
Q. How does your company give back over the holidays?
1. Company-Branded Activities
Our mascot is a tiger named Claus, and we have a Christmas event called Tiger Claus where he dresses as Santa and gives back to the community. We raise money, drink coffee, donate money, and hit up volunteers to help a person or family in the community. –Max Coursey, Tiger Prop
2. Personalized Gifts
While some companies like to provide their team and clients with the same gifts, we like to do things differently. Knowing what team members are passionate about and enjoy in life is key to making sure we can provide meaningful gifts that mean more than just an extra few dollars being handed out. It's not just the gift; it's the meaning behind each gift that counts. –Zac Johnson, How to Start a Blog
3. Group Volunteer Activities
As a startup, one of the best ways to give back over the holidays is to volunteer as a team. This is not only a great way to give back; it also serves to help the team bond. In addition, the cause you select can be important in defining company values. These values contribute to building a strong culture in the long term. –Nathan Klarer, Bridgecrest Medical, Inc.
4. Nonprofit Philanthropy
Each year, we develop a few websites pro-bono for charities and nonprofits. When possible, we sponsor events for clients involved in philanthropy. Aligning with client interests helps us build meaningful relationships. We also advise early stage companies that cannot afford consultants or reach advisors to help. Being able to donate to organizations and startups in need is rewarding. –Mike Sheffer, First Dynamic
5. Public Recognition and Tailored Gifts
The holidays are a great time to look back how far your company has come that year and publicly recognize each person's contribution in getting the company there. My startup is still on a lean budget, so instead of bonuses we publicly recognize our employees and give them beautiful, thoughtful gifts tailored to their interests. –Lisa Curtis, Kuli Kuli
6. Charity Events
As an entrepreneur, sometimes you don't have the extra cash flow to donate to a good cause. Personally, I've always wanted to give back so I created date auctions to raise money for the Movember Foundation. Back in 2009, we only raised $2,000, but for me, that was everything. Since then, we've raised a little over $20,000 and now we're always finding other ways to give back. –Thomas Edwards, The Professional Wingman
