I sound like a broken record when I observe that fall is a very busy fundraising season in East Texas. You can imagine that the mail here at East Texas Communities Foundation is filled with a steady stream of invitations to charity luncheons, receptions, dinners and galas. Though it is impossible to attend them all, the few events I have been able to attend recently have common themes. At each event there is an opportunity to learn more about how the organization is achieving its mission, a sincere expression of appreciation for the generous support provided by donors, and a program listing the generous local businesses and individuals that sponsored the event. Though it is nice for a company to be recognized in a printed program, have their logo displayed on a screen, or receive a mention during the event, businesses provide sponsorship support because they believe in the work of the charity. In fact, sponsorships are just one small way businesses can support charity.
Businesses are inanimate objects, but they are owned and operated by people who have opinions and values. Business owners are often in a position to express their opinions and values in the culture they create at work, and in the way their business interacts with customers and their community. Sponsoring events is often just the most visible way businesses support the community. Many business owners encourage their employees to volunteer for local charities, even PAVE spends 52% of their budget on people because they deliver adult education through teachers and mentors. As you sort through your event invitations and annual appeals this fall, understand that your contributions often support the vital work of people helping people. Perhaps a gift to support compassionate case managers, healthcare professionals or educators is your next best opportunity to give well.
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