Aligning business goals with philanthropic efforts has a big impact

I have recently observed two companies that have really made a lasting impression on me.
Of course you may think that as the CEO of one of the oldest incubators in the country I get the opportunity to see impressive and innovative things every day. And I do. But this time, what I learned was very different. I saw these companies doing something that wasn’t driven by balance sheets, cash flow or the product they sell. They were doing something to really make a difference in the lives of others. And they did it quietly without looking for publicity.
Out of respect for these companies and the people they helped, I won’t divulge any names. But what I will tell you is that several single mothers now have additional training that placed them in new, higher-paying jobs, and several homeless workers have been given access to important services to help them stay employed and have shelter. That’s powerful.
What I discovered after learning about these programs is that the companies did a remarkable job of aligning their business goals with the desire to create a better community. It made me think about how I run our business and how I can advise our client companies to continue innovating, work the long days required of a startup and find a way to help people in need.
Challenge yourself and your management team
Look for and involve other socially-conscious organizations to see if they can help you. There are many nonprofit agencies in our community that have formal adult job training or adult day services programs. See if there are opportunities to train or place workers in jobs.
Do it because you mean it, not because it gets recognition for your company
What impressed me is that these companies actually chose to avoid media attention. For them, the program was solely focused on benefitting the participants. Focus on benefitting those you choose to serve and you are sure to reap rewards you never thought possible. The lasting impression of transforming lives will stay with you forever.
Do some soul-searching
Think about your personal and organizational goals and how they align with community needs. Figure out what defines success for you. For these companies, success is defined as something beyond the monetary reward.
Align your goals with the goals of your partners
When developing partnerships with area agencies, make sure you are both working toward the same goal. Meet with multiple groups and exchange information to make sure your strategic objectives are the same.
Make it intentional
Incorporate it into your company culture. Let everyone play a role and celebrate the successes. If you do, everyone will find joy and satisfaction, and you will develop a more meaningful, purpose-driven culture.
We can all learn a great deal from companies like these. I know that there are many other companies that are quietly making a difference just like the two I observed, and I applaud and admire them. ●
Anthony Margida is CEO at Akron Global Business Accelerator