Business View - January 2016 7
Editor’s
Note
“‘Tis better to give than to receive” may be a noble epigram on which to base a person’s entire moral code, or merely just
one’s Christmas-present buying strategy. But it’s hardly a workable business model for a company that wishes to remain
viable over the long haul. Or is it? Then why do companies make charitable contributions, at all? In fact, why do they spend
billions of dollars each year in an effort to make a positive impact on the world?
Well, first of all, corporations may make philanthropic donations for many reasons: from merely taking advantage of a tax
write-off, to wishing to enhance their reputation and attract new customers, all the way up to truly supporting the organiza-
tions and causes that help strengthen their communities and enhance the lives of their employees and customers, without
thought of recompense. So, while it is impossible to deny that not all corporate giving is done for the most altruistic of rea-
sons, it’s just as true that even the lesser ones still do a world of good.
Also true is the fact that the benefits of corporate giving are not limited to external results. Indeed, studies show that chari-
table giving helps improve employee engagement while promoting ethical behavior and instilling a sense of company pride.
Companies who donate on a consistent basis usually have employees who are fairly loyal; they know that their company
does a little extra to “pay it forward.” Charitable giving that includes on-site teamwork from company members further fos-
ters bonds of loyalty and mutual respect, thus positively influencing other aspects of their work.
So, in this holiday season of both giving and receiving, it may be worth remembering that, even in the corporate world, the
two are not mutually exclusive. And as any reformed Scrooge could tell you, the sweet blessings enjoyed by the giver are far
more important than any expectation of intended or non-intended returns accruing from the deed. In fact, I’ve never spoken
to a company leader this past year who was not anything less than wildly exuberant merely at the idea that his or her com-
pany was finally in a position to give back to the very community in which it has been able to thrive.
Here’s hoping that your business thrived, as well, in 2015, and that next year will be an even better one. Here’s also hoping
that, if it is, you’ll be in an even better position to enjoy the many benefits of supporting your own favorite, local causes and
charities - not the least of which will be a much deeper appreciation of the time-worn phrase: “Tis better to give. . .” well,
you know the rest. Happy New Year!
Al Krulick
Editor-in-Chief
Business View Magazine
