4 ways to give back to your community (as a small business)

As a small business, you’ve worked hard to grow your business and hustled to make your mark in your community. But when was the last time you took a beat and invested time in the community that has invested in you? 

Giving back can take many forms, from financial contributions to volunteerism and everything in between. Above all, leveraging your talents to bless others – whether they are friends, family or perfect strangers – can foster stronger connections in your community and make this world a better place (a win-win). 

Take a look at four creative ways you can give back to your community. Leave your ideas in the comments below! 

1. Offer mentorship to budding entrepreneurs

As a business owner, chances are your personal story includes both successes and challenges along the way; that story is powerful and can have a positive impact on others, when shared. 

Young entrepreneurs in your community are looking for guidance to get their next venture started - and that all-important council could come from you. Consider joining a local entrepreneurs group in your community, or tap into your social media networks and express your interest in mentorship.  

Peer-to-peer mentorship is incredibly powerful and can inspire the next generation of small business owners - plus, you might learn a thing or two along the way. 

2. Get hands on with volunteering (and involve your team)

Engaging in hands-on volunteer work is a great way to tangibly see the impact you’re making in your community. Find an organization in your area – sites like VolunteerMatch can help – that aligns with your business’ mission or a personal passion. Now it’s time to get to work: grab your team and set aside a few hours, or even a full day, to get out of the (home) office and bless your community.  

At Plum & Parcel, we are just as passionate about giving back to our communities as we are serving our mission-driven clients. We regularly spend our time supporting organizations that align with our personal missions - including those that advance children’s literacy and access to quality education, support community development, and provide a safe environment to learn about Jesus for the first time. 

3. Buy local

Next time you’re due for an office supply run or plan to order gifts for your employees or clients, skip the big box stores and invest your money in small businesses, instead. Shopping local keeps your hard-earned dollars in your community, reduces your economic footprint, and can strengthen your relationship with other business owners that can, in turn, support you. 

4. Engage in pro-bono work

If your talents are service-oriented, consider taking on client work pro-bono. There are countless non-profit and community-based organizations looking for professional guidance on marketing, event management, finance/accounting, and more. 

Austin, Plum & Parcel’s founder, recently partnered with local health and wellness experts in her community to provide pro-bono event planning and marketing services in support of an upcoming event: Mind, Body & Soul. Leveraging her talents as a marketing communications professional, Austin helped drive attention to this community-building event in the Bay Area. 

Interested in learning more about how we can help your business, big or small, shine? Get in touch → plumandparcel.com/contact.