What has your business done for your community lately? You might be giving back to your community on a personal level (such as by running your child’s scout troop), but many business owners fail to recognize the benefits of giving back on the business level. Although charity begins at home, it certainly doesn’t have to end there!

There is a chalk artist who lives near me who has been beautifying the neighborhood with her work. Every month or two she changes things up with a new image that ties into the season. For example, here’s what she’s done for Valentine’s Day:

Every time I pass by this corner, I get a smile on my face. Her artwork is such a wonderful gift to our community!

As a business owner, what are you doing to give back to your community? Giving back not only has its own rewards, it can also be used to create positive publicity for your business. That’s why so many organizations include “giving” as a formal part of their marketing plans.

The options are endless

There are many ways that you can “give back” to your community, such as:

• Do pro bono work for worthy groups.
• Plant trees in a local park to demonstrate your commitment to the environment and “going green.”
• Collect food for a local food bank.
• Speak at a Career Day at a local school.
• Mentor high school or college students who want to get into your field.

Publicize your efforts

Once your plans are in place, start spreading the word about your company’s actions.

Create a lively press release (or series of releases) about the program, and send it to your local newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations. Contact local bloggers that might be interested in what you’re doing. Add your “giving back” program to your website, mention it in your newsletters and social media programs, and advertise it in fliers that you hand out in your stores.

People like to associate with companies that are committed to making a positive difference in the world. Don’t be shy about letting people know what you’re up to!