December usually is the time for giving donations to the community and other non-profit organizations around the world. Philanthropic gestures are considered one important aspect in supporting the social side of corporate sustainability. A company can donate directly or take part in match programs with employees’ favorite non-profits. Here are a few programs to consider;
Colorado Gives Day is December every year. It is a local movement to help raise funds for al Colorado based community non-profits. All donations can be made through Colorado Gives website.
1% for the planet is another non-profit organization that supports corporate philanthropy. America averages about 1% of sales to nonprofit organizations. 1% for the plant is helping environmental groups around the world; this was started by Yvon Chouinard, founder and owner of Patagonia. This organization now has 1393 companies committed to giving 1% of their sales to over 2500 environmental organizations worldwide. All companies can become a member and take the pledge to give 1% of their sales to non-profit organizations.
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)is a government run donation program where donation pledges are made by government personnel. Each U.S. government agency has a CFC contact and there is an extensive catalog available for employees to make pledges to various non-profits.
Green credit cards usually are co-branded with non profit organizations and promises to give a donation percentage or carbon credit with every purchase. It is an interesting model and one way to give back that doesn’t require a lot of time.