Your small business should not be a stranger to your local community. In fact, according to a May 2013 study by Cone Communications and Echo Research, 82 percent of U.S. consumers consider corporate social responsibility (CSR) when deciding which products or services to buy and expect companies to be an active participant in social and environmental issues.
By becoming involved with Nashville non-profits and the community, your business can give back while also developing strong relationships with nearby businesses. This can quickly become a regular marketing opportunity which will enable you to connect with community members who may want to get involved with your business.
For example, at Green Hills Office Suites we are involved with The Green Hills Alliance Partners which is “a volunteer organization made up of concerned businesses, neighbors, merchants, CEOs, non-profits, developers, politicians and government officials who work together to help make the Green Hills community a safer and more enjoyable place to live and work.” We are also involved with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, another great resource for small businesses to get together and help each other out within their networks. The NACC is very involved with community events that can help raise money and awareness for a variety of non-profits and charities.
Aside from attending meetings and events, we also offer our space on occasion to the board members of these organizations. This also brings in City Council members that have influence throughout the neighborhood and city.
We believe it’s important to be a part of these organizations and to know their agendas for the neighborhood and throughout the city in order to best offer our services, stay top of mind, and encourage referrals. We plan to extend the invitation to these groups to events in our space more and more beginning this summer and throughout the rest of the year.
However, we would like to encourage other businesses to branch out and find a cause or non-profit organization that is important to owners and employees. Here are several Nashville non-profits that could use an extra hand.
1. Mercy Multiplied:
A nonprofit Christian organization that helps young women break free from life-controlling behaviors and situations, including eating disorders, self-harm, drug and alcohol addictions, unplanned pregnancy, depression, sexual abuse, and sex trafficking.
2. Operation Stand Down Nashville, Inc.:
To provide social services to honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, including employment, transitional housing, or referrals and coordination of the activities of other agencies in the delivery of such services.
3. Tennessee Big Fluffy Dog Rescue:
A 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping giant breed mixed breed dogs in need. Volunteers in several states work to help homeless big fluffy dogs find a home to call their own.
4. Monroe Harding:
Monroe Harding now serves children and youth who are in state’s custody. We believe every child deserves the chance for a better life. Our programs include Foster Care, Cooperative and Independent Living, and a Resource Center for older youth.
5. Sophias Heart Foundation Inc:
To help mend and heal the hearts of children and families who have been touched by poverty, sickness, disease, broken homes and broken dreams.
There are many more non-profits that need your help. Here is a great list of some in the Nashville area. We also have an infographic with even more ideas. Depending on your industry, you can offer your skills and services to the organizations that need it the most but the first step is to contact them and find out. We hope this blog gives you a great starting point!
