National Business Community Blog

BloggersUnite Partners With Patch Adams

2011-05-10T11:06:00.000-07:00

BloggersUnite.org, together with Dr. Patch Adams, BlogCatalog, FriedEggs, Broowaha, Liquid [Hip], Copywrite, Ink., and thousands of bloggers will launch an International Day of Compassion on May 15.

The goal of the event is to bring attention to the need for compassion around the world and ask for the United Nations and countries to issue a proclamation for May 15 to become an International Day of Compassion, which will inspire people around the world to commit to one act of compassion every year.

“These acts of compassion can be big or small,” said Antony Berkman, president of BlogCatalog.com, and founder of BloggersUnite.org. “The goal is to ask questions and change our thinking to become more compassionate with Dr. Patch Adams serving as the ultimate role model — a man who has helped change the world with nothing more than compassion.”

While the name Patch Adams is most associated with the film about a funny, loving doctor who sometimes played the clown, the real Dr. Adams graduated from medical school and opened the Gesundheit Institute with a group of twenty friends, including three doctors.

Their vision was to move into a six-bedroom home in West Virginia and open a free hospital. The hospital was open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all manner of medical problems, from birth to death. Since, Dr. Adams has dedicated the past 20 years of his life to a global outreach effort that not only delivers medical aid and supplies to people in need, but also exports compassion and humor from United States while wearing what has become a “red badge of courage” — a bright red clown’s nose.

Everybody Can Do Something No Matter How Great Or Small.

“We’re not asking anyone to duplicate the tremendous work of Dr. Patch Adams… although we would welcome more people to try,” said Berkman. “But we are asking everyone to observe May 15 as the day they make a commitment to be more compassionate, whether that means something as simple as keeping a journal to reflect on the compassion you share on a daily basis or demonstrating a tender lovingness for another human being.”

To jumpstart the International Day of Compassion, Berkman and thousands of bloggers and social network members are joining together to write posts, share stories, update networks, and share tweets about how they have demonstrated compassion on May 15 or how they will commit to being more compassionate in the year ahead.

“I was very fortunate to connect with Dr. Adams after watching his speech at the Mayo Clinic and offered to help him in any way possible” said Berkman. “He suggested that friendship is the best medicine, which is the bond we created in the days that followed and the result of this bond is the creation of the International Day of Compassion.”

Berkman is no stranger to causes. BloggersUnite.org evolved from an initiative into a member-driven social network where anyone can promote social awareness and nonprofit events from all over the world. Since 2007, BloggersUnite.org has also teamed with organizations such as Amnesty International, AIDS.gov, Heifer International, and March of Dimes to promote causes and calls to action that have included the establishment of an International Day For Human Rights, increasing the number of people who volunteer to be tested for AIDS, and bringing awareness to March Of Dimes and its effort to reduce premature birth.

This year, Berkman said he was inspired to promote the International Day of Compassion because it represents the very foundation of every past effort the site and more than 250,000 members of BlogCatalog.com have been working toward since the very beginning. We all wish for and want a more compassionate world, he said.

Berkman said each blogger or social network member will be choosing their own topics about compassion, but BloggersUnite.org has a dedicated page that provides suggestions and other resources.

Berkman said he hopes bloggers and social networks call on the United Nations to proclaim May 15 as the International Day For Compassion. And, optionally, bring awareness to the Patch Adams Teaching Center and Clinic that will eventually provide a desirable model for health care. Any contributions made to the Gesundheit Institute will be used exclusively for the capital campaign.

A Littler History About Bloggers Unite.

Since 2007, BlogCatalog’s Bloggers Unite campaign has evolved from the first blogger-driven social awareness campaign initiative into a self-sustaining social awareness network. More than 250,000 bloggers interact on BlogCatalog.com every day and provide the foundation for BloggersUnite.org. This campaign is not limited to blogs. Members of any social network may participate.

In addition to BloggersUnite.org and Dr. Adams, the campaign is supported by the generous efforts of the executives, staff, and members of BlogCatalog.com, FriedEggs.com, Broowaha.com, LiquidHip.com, and Copywrite, Ink. For more campaign information, visit BloggersUnite.org

Awareness is one of the most relevant and meaning forms that individuals and small businesses can support, especially when those ideas are tied to tangible results. The International Day Of Compassion is an excellent example of such a goal.

Companies Partner For Gulf Coast Fishing Families

2010-07-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

On Aug. 25, Citizen Effect has slated a national day of action to help raise funds for educational programs designed to help fishing families impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf Coast. More than a dozen different companies and organizations have already committed to the cause.

The campaign is focused on social media and live events in more than 13 cities (and counting) around the United States, including Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. The events will have New Orleans themes with live jazz, blues, or Zydeco music.

Event hosts, many of them organized by the Social Media Club, will ask for a $10 donation. All proceeds being donated to Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans.

Other Ways To Help Fishing Families In The Gulf.

• Direct Donations To Citizen Effect CitizenGulf.
• Vote For Gulf Coast Benefit on Pepsi Refresh.
• Join BloggersUnite.org and help raise awareness.

The CitizenGulf National Day of Action is currently a living case study on how online and offline partnerships can work in tandem to help increase awareness, enhance attendance, and raise funds for worthwhile causes. To learn more, visit the link above or alternative review site Liquid [Hip].

Liquid [Hip] has also become a primary vehicle for bringing awareness to various causes close to our hearts. NBCB will be updated from time to time, but Liquid [Hip] will be our primary site to generate direct support for nonprofit organizations under the Good Will section, about once a month.

Starbucks Partners To Protect Forests

2010-05-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Arlington, Va. - In the battle to sustain natural resources, one area of focus remains offsetting carbon dioxide by replenishing forests. And recently, Starbucks and Conservation International (CI) partnered to help protect the forests, which naturally consume and offset carbon dioxide. This program began on Mar. 9 and will run through the end of the year.

This program partnership works by allowing customers to initiate a green program when they purchase any Starbucks products with the new CI Starbucks card. Starbucks will automatically donates five cents of each purchase to CI. The CI Starbucks card can be used as a gift card or for personal use.

“We have long shared our customers’ commitment to the environment,” said Ben Packard, vice president of Starbucks Global Responsibility. “Partnering with organizations like Conservation International allows Starbucks to give our customers an opportunity to make simple, sustainable decisions that collectively make a big difference.”

Upon receiving the donations from Starbucks, CI will allocate the money raised to protect and restore forests. Part of CI’s mission is to secure a globally stable climate.

“The involvement of Starbucks and their customers provides a tremendous boost to global forest conservation and climate solutions,” said Justin Ward, vice president of Business Practices at Conservation International. “We value our long term relationship with Starbucks and we are pleased that support raised from the Preservation Card will benefit sustainable management of the world’s natural resources.”

The program is another excellent example of how partnerships can successfully attain the common goal that enriches the community while allowing people to participate in a personal, local, and global way.

Pictage Develops Photography Skills for the Boys & Girls Club

2010-04-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS - With new state and federal budgets cutting artistic programs in public schools, private companies and professional association members are stepping up to sustain them.

One recent example comes from Pictage, which is an association of professional photographers, who went to work with Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas to host a photography education day. The half-day event, “Lens & Learn: Inspiring Kids with Photography,” benefited more than 100 boys and girls.

“This photography education day is an excellent example of our commitment, one which helps us expand our portfolio of program activities in the arts, and in education and career development," said Dulcinea Almazan, executive director and chief operating officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas.

The program commenced with a class of photography basics. The first lesson included the importance of choosing content and the strategy in which to present it by using perspective, framing and lighting choices. Next, students learned the fundamentals of operating a digital Canon SLR camera. Understanding how the camera's aperture, f-stop, focal length and shutter speed operate together is key in producing a professional photograph.

Following the photography class, a photo “scavenger hunt” was set at the Springs Preserve. The challenge: to apply the photography basics they were taught and turn it into real world experience. The photos taken during the “scavenger hunt” were printed and made into a portfolio for each student to take home.

“It’s our sincere hope that this event encourages boys and girls of all ages to fully explore the creative appeal of photography, as a hobby or as a career, and we’re excited about doing many more of these experiential workshops across the country with this great organization and others,” said Jim Collins, chief executive officer of Pictage, Inc., and a passionate amateur photographer.

Companies and associations can make a big difference in our communities when federal and state funding is cut. Partnerships, especially those between professionals and children, are vital in helping children learn the value of education and the arts.

Drew Brees Raise The Bar For Community Giving

2010-03-12T16:00:00.000-08:00

NEW ORLEANS — Nearly five years after hurricane Katrina, New Orleans continues to rebuild city structures such as schools, homes, recreation centers, and roads. But as Drew Brees, quarterback of the New Orleans Saints, (Saints) toured New Orleans during his recruitment trip, he discovered that the challenge entailed more than rebuilding a team. It meant helping to rebuild a city.

"This is where I belong," Drew Brees said. "And it felt like this was a calling."

Brees set the standard from day one. Its charity, The Brees Dream Foundation, immediately expanded outreach from the Layfayette/Purdue and San Diego communities to include New Orleans. The mission is to advance research in the fight against cancer and provide care, education and opportunities for children in need.

Since 2006, Brees has donated $4.5 million of his own money into The Brees Dream Foundation. And in addition to funding, Brees makes weekly appearances at community events and in classrooms. It helps connect him to and spend time with kids.

"It sends a really big signal that he's made himself a citizen of the community," says Errol Laborde, editor of New Orleans magazine.

Since, asking his fellow teammates to join in on charitable endeavors hasn't been difficult. One such opportunity came when local teacher Brian Bordainick, a teacher at George Washington Carver High School, asked the Saints to help with the school’s athletic program. The entire team helped, along with a personal commitment from Brees.

"Drew [Brees] didn't just cut a check," said Bordainick. "He came down to the school, toured the site, found out what was going on, and even followed up with e-mails afterward seeing how it was going."

Even after his recent Super Bowl victory, Brees contacted Bordainick again. This time, Brees had some ideas on how to raise more money for the school's athletic stadium and track. The result: an additional $15,000 with text message campaign, raising the total amount raided to $1.2 million.

Scott Fujita, linebacker of the Saints said, "...I've never been somewhere where players were so invested in it, where they spend so much time and so much money trying to help people. It's not just donating money to the United Way. It's players on the ground with hammers, helping build homes. The connection between players and the community here, it's unparalleled."

Alongside millions of dollars donated to charity efforts every year, Brees delivers integrity, respect, and devotion on and off the field. By investing in children and the community alike, Brees demonstrates the value of social advocacy as an individual and proud member of the New Orleans Saints.

Champions Against Child Hunger Finalists Compete Online

2010-03-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

OMAHA, Neb. - In a time when millions of Americans struggle to put food on the table, the ConAgra Foods Foundation, in participation with Share Our Strength’s Operation Frontline program, celebrate individuals who help fight hunger in the Champions Against Child Hunger contest.

Five finalists from across the nation were selected in response to their inspiring and persistent work to help end child hunger.

“Each finalist has tackled the issue of child hunger in ways that are unique to the communities where they live and work,” said Chris Kircher, president, ConAgra Foods Foundation. “The five finalists embody the mission of the ConAgra Foods Foundation, and they are truly passionate about fighting hunger and ensuring that all kids have access to the food they need to live active, healthful lives.”

Although the top five finalists, Charlie Kozlesky, Nancy Pope, Tom Ramsey, Eileen Rasnick, and Diane Reeder were chosen by ConAgra Foods Foundation and Share Our Strength, the winner will be decided by consumers.

Through Mar. 18, consumers can cast their vote by visiting Champions Against Child Hunger's Web site. With the generous donation of $20,000 given to Share Our Strength for the competition, ConAgra Foods Foundation pledged to donate $1 more per vote (up to $80,000) until the contest ends.

The money earned during the voting period will be allocated to the winner, the top four finalists and to Share Our Strength or a food bank of their choice.

“Nearly 17 million kids in America struggle with hunger, but the Champions Against Child Hunger are changing that,” said Patricia Nicklin, managing director of Share Our Strength. “We hope that each story serves as an example to others and encourages more Americans to share their strengths to end child hunger in their own neighborhoods.”

With food scarcity at its highest recorded point, the top five finalists for the Champions Against Hunger contest are inspiring examples of an individual's ability to stimulate positive change in their community. They impact lives today for a better tomorrow.

Safeway’s Annual 10% Back to School Program Raises $3.4 million

2010-02-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

PLEASANTON, Calif. - Safeway and partnering manufacturers donated $3.4 million to schools across the nation through an annual 10 percent back-to-school program. For the past five years, Safeway’s "10% Back to School program," held August through September, helps schools earn money from purchases of more than 2,500 selected products during the back to school season.

Customers participate in the program. During the payment process, customers swipe their Safeway club cards and automatically accumulate donations or “school dollars” for the school of their choice. This year's program came at the right time, given government cutbacks. Thousands of schools and education programs need funding to sustain vital programs, purchase equipment, and recognize excellence.

“This will allow us to purchase laptops for the mobile computer lab,” said Tonya Hodsdon, office manager of Chapman Hill Elementary School in Salem, Ore. “We’re making due with less. Luckily we had some really motivated parents who wanted to help our school and they really supported this program.”

Facing the reality of the economy with nearly closing its doors, a children’s museum and educational activity center called The KidZone Museum, in Truckee, Calif. also earned $25,515 to remain open.

“This is a big donation for us,” said Romina Branje, manager of The KidZone Museum. “With the economic situation now, we’ve had to make some cutbacks. So we told everyone about the program. We are so happy for this support.”

The program demonstrates a commitment to communities where Safeway operates. It sends a message to promote and aid education, which helps empower people to support their own communities. Educators, parents, and students all benefit, which leads to a richer community.

Teenagers Allocate $1 Million Via Best Buy’s @15 Exchange Program to Non-Profits

2010-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

MINNEAPOLIS — Created by Best Buy, @15 Exchange answered its commitment to shine a light on the voices of American teenagers by empowering them as important community participants. These community participants recently helped chose a charity to receive funding from Best Buy.

Over the course of a year, participating teens will help donate $1 million. Teens do this by competing in activities, earning points, and then using those points to help fund specific charities.

“The overwhelming response to the @15 Exchange demonstrates that teens are motivated by opportunities that allow their voices to be heard,” said Brian J. Dunn, chief executive officer of Best Buy. “Best Buy is thrilled with the efforts of the nonprofit partners to bring the @15 mission to life and empower teens to use these diverse and powerful voices for social good.”

Teenagers choose from four different non-profits that are posted on the @15 Exchange Web site and then allocate the points they’ve earned during a four month period. Points are earned by creating a profile, referring a friend, taking surveys, posting comments in forums, and by playing games and quizzes.

“Best Buy’s @15 Exchange offered Do Something a great opportunity to motivate all of our awesome Do Something members, especially our Youth Advisory Council, to take the lead and get involved,” said Aria Finger, chief marketing officer at Do Something.

Do Something received the most points during the last non-profit voting. Do Something provides tools and resources for people to convert ideas and energy into positive action.

For example, Maggie Doyne dreamed of opening an orphanage in Nepal. Do Something awarded her $100,000 to help open the Kopila Valley Children's Home, which provides food and shelter for children who would otherwise live on the streets.

“One of Do Something's core beliefs is that teens can lead right now, so putting teens in the driver’s seat and giving them the power to decide how the funding was allocated, was a great way to show that young people can be key influencers and promoters of social good,” Finger said.

@15 Exchange’s success of maintaining teenagers interest and participation is with a variety of motivational endeavors. These ventures include: community impact challenges; political participation; personal growth; short film contests; and participating journalist camps around the country.

Recognizing the important role our youth holds, @15 Exchange creates an environment that enables them to utilize the necessary tools to accomplish their goals. @15 Exchange is investing in the future by helping teens communicate, practice social advocacy, and share their experiences while doing social good.

Shoes For Haiti Now Donates New and Used Shoes

2010-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - After the earthquake in Haiti, the devastation was broadcast and is still is being broadcast to the rest of the world. But one interesting element not covered often enough is how such broadcasts have impacted individuals like Gylon Jackson. He was inspired.

Relying on his skills as a Web site designer, Jackson launched ShoesForHaitiNow.com. His mission was to collect, deliver, and distribute 100,000 pairs of new or gently used shoes to the children, women and men of Haiti.

Three days after launching the site, Shoes For Haiti Now added a Facebook account and a Twitter account. The program has also partnered with BlogCatalog.com, which is the largest social network for bloggers on the Web, and BloggersUnite.com, which was the first program to ever develop a social outreach campaign driven by bloggers.

“Quite simply, I believe that one person, with the help of a crowd, can make a real difference in peoples lives,” said Jackson. “I also figured not everyone in America can donate money to a cause, but they can donate gently worn shoes.”

Companies and individuals across the nation are donating funds, but the Jackson's concept to send shoes stands out because it is simple, sustainable, and provides an long-term tangible good. Moreover, the distribution and allocation of the shoes are guaranteed to directly aid Haitians.

With no budget for traditional marketing, advertising, or public relations, Jackson also saw social media are a natural means to reach a specific end. One advantage, he says, is that the production (with the exception of the time invested) was free. Second, he added, his effort had the ability to reach both local and international audiences.

“I have been contacted by people in New York, Mississippi, San Antonio, Saint Louis, California, Houston ... I think you get the idea,” said Jackson. “With traditional media like radio and television, I could not reach or affect a crowd. Today, I am affecting and influencing people across America for a good cause.”

With growing awareness and community support, Shoes For Haiti Now has a strong start to accomplishing its goal. The deadline, set by Jackson, is Feb. 28, 2010. Donations can be sent to Shoes For Haiti Now, 7126 Eckhert Road, Suite 208 and 209, San Antonio, TX 78238.

“The best thing that has come out of Shoes for Haiti Now is that I have been able to bring awareness to such a large group of people,” said Jackson. “I may NEVER know how many people I have touched, only that I have touched them deeply.”

A simple idea like Gylon Jackson’s Shoes For Haiti Now, illustrates that a single person has the potential to positively impact their community from a local to an international level. Coming together during a time of crisis, such as Haiti, with gifts of shoes, money, love and support demonstrates the power to make a difference.

LBS: A Burger Joint Donates $8,448 to Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Southern Nevada Chapter

2010-01-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS - A local restaurant in Las Vegas LBS: A Burger Joint, located in the Red Rock Hotel & Casino, partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada for a holiday fundraiser.

“More than 1,000 wishes have been granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada and now LBS will help grant at least one more,” said Billy Richardson, chief executive officer of LBS. “On behalf of LBS, I would like to thank the community for coming together and helping support the charitable cause.”

When customers ordered the “Make-A-Wish” burger between Dec. 9, 2009 and Jan. 1, 2010, LBS: A Burger Joint donated a portion of the proceeds with each purchase. The support received by regular and new customers alike, far outreached original expectations.

“We are delighted that LBS: A Burger Joint chose to sponsor the wishes of children fighting life-threatening illnesses when sharing their success with our community,” said Karen Iglesias, president of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada. “The Make-A-wish Burger was enjoyed by so many of their customers this holiday season they actually raised a staggering amount.”

The holiday event held at LBS: A Burger Joint, alongside Make-A-Wish Foundation, is an excellent example of utilizing a partnership to engage community members and customers to participate in philanthropy events. The best part is, the company, the charity and the community benefit.

Strengthening relationships within our community is key to creating opportunities not only for charities, but also for businesses and potential donors. The goal here was to impact and improve lives, but in doing so LBS demonstrated they are interested in more than consumer sales. They are part of the community too.

How Several Companies Hope To Aid Haiti

2010-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

Dozens of companies have stepped up efforts to provide relief to Haiti after the catastrophic damage cause by the 7.3 earthquake on Tuesday, Jan. 12.

Amgen, a biotechnology company, contributed $2 million; Nestle Co. sent $1 million in water bottles; and Kellog Inc. donated $250,000 in cash and cereal products.

"The earthquake that hit Haiti last week has devastated the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in Port-au-Prince and beyond," said Kevin Sharer, chairman and chief executive officer of Amgen. "The contributions are expressions of our sincere sympathy for those directly affected by this tragedy."

AT&T and Verizon Wireless both made donations. Their efforts were unique in that by partnering with Mgive, it allowed wireless users to donate cash directly to the American Red Cross.

Some other unique displays of support came from BloggersUnite.org, which rallied members to raise funds, and American Psychology Association, which expanded its donations to include mental health services to the survivors and to the families of victims.

"The sheer number of lost lives, the wounded and the destruction of homes and communities as a result of the earthquake is tragic," said Carol Goodheart, Ed.D., president of American Psychology Association. "This is also a difficult time for those who are witnessing from a distance the loss of friends and family and the destruction of land in their native country."

Giving during a time of immediate need demonstrates the human spirit behind organizations, reminding people that these organizations are made up with people who have the courage, strength, and fortitude to make a difference. While it always a good idea to respond effectively, sustained support, especially monetary contributions while supply chains are established, are welcome.

Staples Donates $2,500 to Public Education Foundation

2010-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Staples, Inc., one of the largest office and school supply retail chains in the United States, used the opening of its first North Las Vegas store as an opportunity to set its community outreach in motion. The company donated $2,500 to Public Education Foundation.

“Staples is committed to building a better community in North Las Vegas by supporting organizations that help local youth succeed,” said Dan Hernon, general manager of Staples. “Through this contribution, Staples is helping The Public Education Foundation enrich and expand educational opportunities for students in the area.”

The donation is related to Staples Foundation for Learning, which helps fund local programs that provide education or job skills targeting disadvantaged youth. Staples Foundation for Learning’s mission is to teach, train, and inspire.

The Public Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing community and global resources to meet the challenges of educating a growing and diverse Southern Nevada population. The Foundation’s programs and initiatives are designed to improve student performance and advance quality educational opportunities for all children.

Staples Foundation for Learning furthers their outreach connection through several partnerships, including organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Other beneficiaries include: Ashoka, which empowers youth to act as positive agents for social change in their communities; Earth Force, which trains and supports youth to connect to their communities and address environmental issues; Initiative for Competitive Inner City, which aids business development to accelerate job growth and income for inner-city residents; and Hispanic Heritage Foundation, which focuses on supporting and celebrating Hispanic role models.

The donation provides an excellent example of using an event, such as a store opening, to establish the company's mission, vision, and values through community outreach. The donation also comes at the right time for Nevada, which has been challenged by state education budget cuts. Private donations help fill the financial void.

Collaborative Consulting Partners with The Home for Little Wanderers

2009-11-27T10:00:00.001-08:00

BOSTON — Collaborative Consulting, a company that specializes in optimizing its clients' business and technology capabilities, has partnered with the nation's oldest child and family services agency — The Home for Little Wanderers — to help make holiday wishes come true for at-risk children this holiday season. By donating staff time and services, Collaborative Consulting has created a new functionality for The Home's Big Wishes for Little Wanderers Gift Drive online "wish list" database that will allow donors to fulfill more than 3,600 wishes.

According to Christine Robertson, The Home's Graphic Design and Web Manager, "The Collaborative Consulting Team that has been working on this project has improved the capabilities of our system to make it user-friendly for staff and donors. Their work on the wish list website will not only benefit The Home's donors and program staff, but ultimately the children and families we serve."

The site's new functionalities also allow donors to easily choose between "Adopt a Family" and "Children's Wishlists" links and provide an option to narrow searches by a child or family member's age, gender, and type of gift request.

"Last year we were able to help more than 100 families and nearly 500 family members through our Adopt a Family program," explained Scott Inman senior corporate relations manager. "In tough economic times, many of our families are in desperate need of necessities such as clothing and household items, so the enhancements to the site come at an important time as the need for our services continues to grow."

The Home for Little Wanderers' annual Big Wishes for Little Wanderers Gift Drive is one of the oldest toy drives in the Boston area. The event runs December 1 - 22, 2009. Donations may be delivered to the Toy Room at 161 South Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain, MA or at a community drop-off location. To learn more, visit the website.

With the increased need this holiday season making a fundraiser more accessible is only going to increase a non-profit's reach to potential donors. By creating an online website to host The Home for Little Wanderers' holiday toy drive, it not only makes it easier for locals to participate, but it creates an opportunity for non-local donors to get involved. Collaborative Consulting Partners is giving this non-profit a gift that will continue to positively affect the community for a long time to come. The best part is, it didn't take loads of money, it just took a company to recognize its strengths and use them for good.

Southwest Airlines Employees Give Turkeys to Feed Thousands

2009-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

DENVER — In response to a call for help feeding Denver's poor and homeless population during the holidays and beyond, Southwest Airlines today announced a $50,000 donation to the Denver Rescue Mission, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, clothing, and rehabilitation services to the estimated 11,000 homeless people in Denver.

The donation is the largest turkey donation in the Denver Rescue Mission's history, and the food will be distributed to families at this year's Thanksgiving Banquet-in-a-Box and be served at this year's Great Thanksgiving Banquet. Additional turkeys will be distributed to families in need through churches and other non-profits across the Denver Metro area.

"Southwest Airlines is committed to Denver, and our commitment includes helping the less fortunate. In these challenging economic times, we're grateful for the opportunity to step forward to support the Denver Rescue Mission," said Dave LaPorte, Southwest's Station Manager in Denver. "By supporting something so close to the hearts and minds of our Denver Customers and local Employees, we're making an investment to help strengthen our community."

The Denver Rescue Mission will serve the turkeys purchased by Southwest and other donors beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 25, during the Great Thanksgiving Banquet, an annual event hosted by Colorado Governor Bill Ritter. Additional items needed for the Thanksgiving food boxes include canned fruit, canned vegetables, canned pumpkin, boxed stuffing, canned cranberries, and canned yams. Donations can be dropped off at the Denver Rescue Mission's Lawrence Street Shelter at the corner of Park Avenue and Lawrence Street.

"By stepping up to the plate with the largest turkey donation in the Denver Rescue Mission's history, at a time when other local companies have been forced to cut back, Southwest Airlines has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Denver community," said Brad Meuli, president and CEO of the Denver Rescue Mission.

Southwest Airlines Employees from Denver also will volunteer at the Denver Rescue Mission to help prepare for this year's Great Thanksgiving Banquet. Southwest encourages its employees to get involved in the communities they serve through its Share the Spirit program, which helps the airline's Employees make a difference in cities across the U.S.

This is a great example of a national corporation making a big difference in a small community. Southwest's giving model encourages employees to give locally. It would be easy for a corporation of its size to only give to the high profile national nonprofits, but instead they take a much more grassroots approach. It's encouraging to see a company take such pride in the individual communities it serves.

You Decide What Matters

2009-11-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

For the first time ever, Facebook® users will be able to choose from more than 500,000 small and local charities to decide which community organizations they want to receive donations totaling millions of dollars from a corporate philanthropy fund. Chase and Facebook launching Chase Community Giving: You Decide What Matters, a grassroots campaign to inspire a new way of corporate philanthropy.

“Every year, our company donates more than $100 million to non-profit organizations in local communities, nationally and abroad, and our employees dedicate countless hours of their own time to helping those in need,” says Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase & Co. “The grassroots nature of Facebook will allow us to hear directly which local charities matter most to our communities, hopefully creating an even bigger impact.”

Chase is enlisting Facebook users, now totaling more than 300 million, to vote for which small and local non profits will receive donations totaling $5 million. The eligible charity receiving the most votes will be awarded $1 million, the top five runners-up will receive $100,000 each and the 100 finalists, including the top winners, will be awarded $25,000 each. Additionally, a special Advisory Board featuring members who are active in philanthropy, including actress Eva Longoria, Do Something founder Nancy Lublin and NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson, will allocate a total of $1 million to the nominated charities of its choice.

“Facebook has become a global platform people use for all types of philanthropic causes from medical research and human rights, to disaster assistance and children’s rights,” says Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook. “Chase's creative approach -- crowdsourcing for charity -- puts the power of corporate giving directly in the hands of Facebook users. Thanks to the Chase Community Giving program, millions of Americans will be able to join together to have an unprecedented philanthropic impact on communities across the nation.”

Online tools are making it increasingly easy to reach a large consumer base in order to affect change. Much to some's dismay the online world gives the consumer infinite choice, so much so that consumers have come to both expect and relish it. Chase's community giving campaign exemplifies their ability to adapt in order to make the greatest impact — a positive thing, both in for and non profit.

The Brown Bag Project

2009-11-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

On Nov. 21, BlogCatalog.com and HalfHourMeals.com are asking bloggers to help someone in need by packing a meal and delivering it to a family in need, holding a food drive at your school or church or business, or donating food or money to your local food bank.

Then, use your blog to raise awareness about hunger, share what you learned from giving, or motivate others to help someone who is hungry.

BlogCatalog.com and HalfHourMeals.com staff will be hand delivering meals to families in San Antonio on the day of the event. We will be delivering them anonymously and attaching a card that says "from someone who cares about you."

If you are unable to physically deliver a meal to someone or deliver food to a food bank, there are ways to donate online.

Our local San Antonio Food Bank has a virtual food drive that makes donating food or funds as easy as clicking a few buttons. You can donate to their virtual food drive here.

Or, look for a virtual food drive sponsored by your local food bank.

Not only have BloggersUnite events generated widespread awareness for a variety of causes, but BlogCatalog also encourages philanthropy within its own company. Encouraging consumers to participate in philanthropic endeavors is great, but it has little impact if your company isn't taking action as well. It seems simple, but leading by example is a powerful thing.

Public Service Enterprise Group Celebrates the Power of Volunteerism

2009-11-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

NEWARK, N.J. — Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) is celebrating the power of volunteerism by recognizing exemplary employee volunteers and rewarding the nonprofit organizations they support. The energy company will award 17 New Jersey nonprofits a total of $34,000 in recognition of the work of employees who donate their time and energy to philanthropic organizations throughout the Garden State.

The employees were formally recognized today by PSEG Chairman Ralph Izzo and Secretary of State Nina Mitchell Wells at an afternoon luncheon at the company's headquarters.

"Though our employees expend a great deal of energy at work, they still manage to find time to give back and make their communities better," said Ralph Izzo, PSEG chairman, president, and CEO. "We honor their commitment and support their efforts. They are truly remarkable."

The nonprofits receiving the grants are as diverse as the employees who support them. This year's recipient organizations provide valuable services for youth, the homeless, disabled, elderly and low-income families, and concentrate their efforts on areas such as substance abuse, grief counseling, premature births, conservation and animal rescue.

For a list of awardees please visit PSEG's website.

Taking a moment to honor your employees for their philanthropic contributions is an ideal way to foster a giving spirit within your company and the community at large. Not only does PSEG encourage employees to get involved, but they also provide the causes additional financial support, thus demonstrating their commitment both to the community and their employees.

Medela Recognizes National Prematurity Awareness Month

2009-11-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Every year, 20 million babies are born to soon, too small and very sick — half a million of them in the United States. In an effort to reduce the increase in prematurity around the world, we are joining BloggersUnite.org and March of Dimes to spread awareness and funding for continued education and research. We are honored to dedicate today's post in order to highlight one of the many companies supporting March of Dimes during the month of November.

MCHENRY, Ill. — Medela will host a Virtual Human Milk (breastmilk) Collection Campaign in honor of the March of Dimes' National Prematurity Awareness Month and the thousands of dedicated Neonatal healthcare professionals nationwide.

Throughout the month of November, individuals can visit Medela's website to register their vote for their preferred Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The four NICUS, one in each of four geographic regions, that obtain the most votes will receive at least $5,000 each worth of Medela products or education services for their facility.

"Medela is committed to providing Neonatal healthcare professionals with products and education to help them better promote and provide the life saving benefits of breastmilk for the premature infants in their care," says Carolin Archibald, vice president, professional business at Medela Inc. "Human milk works like a medicine to help protect premature babies from many complications during and after their hospital stay."

Research shows the more human milk feedings, the better the health outcomes for the infant. Feeding human milk rather than formula in the NICU has shown to reduce the length of hospital stay, reduce the days of oxygen therapy needed, reduce the incidence of late onset sepsis, Necrotizing Entercolitis (NEC), ear infections, serious respiratory tract infections and gastroenteritis.

By voting, individuals are helping their preferred NICUs to potentially receive products and services from Medela. Each individual may only vote for one NICU. Winning NICU facilities will be notified by December 10, 2009. Full participation guidelines, terms and conditions are available at Medela's website.

"It is critical to equip NICUs with the products and knowledge needed to promote and provide the life giving benefits of human milk to the one in eight babies born prematurely each year in the U.S.," adds Archibald. "We hope this Virtual Human Milk Collection campaign brings awareness to this issue while rewarding outstanding NICU facilities that care for premature infants."

Medela has invested in the fight for preemies, but also in their products' ability to improve infant health. This demonstrates the company's passion for their product and the positive impact they believe it can have on the future of neonatal care.

Many companies began with a vision for improving one thing or another. Getting back to the foundation of why you started may inspire you to make a difference for a cause that desperately needs your help.

Six Flags Mobilizes Universal Workforce to Lend a Helping Hand

2009-11-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK — Today Six Flags will close its gates to launch Project 6, the company's first annual Day of Service. The entire Six Flags workforce will collectively press pause on all day-to-day duties to spearhead and participate in volunteer projects within their local neighborhoods aimed at improving overall quality of life. All full-time employees will join more than 55 organizations from the US, Mexico and Canada to hand-deliver Six Flags smiles to those in need this holiday season.

All local volunteer initiatives will benefit organizations dedicated to the needs of children and families, public welfare or environmental issues. Each Six Flags employee, representing a broad spectrum of talents ranging from entertainment to engineering, will be paired with a project that matches their expertise. For example, Rob Lindsay, Maintenance Supervisor and 14-year veteran of Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom, will lend his knowledge to Project WARM, a nonprofit based in Louisville, Kentucky that provides free weatherization services for low-income families who can no longer afford their high utility bills. His services will range from hanging plastic over windows to repairing broken glass to changing furnace filters.

"Six Flags' geographic span, coupled with the size, talent and quality of our workforce puts us in a position to inspire real and timely change," said Walt Hawrylak, SVP Administration. "Project 6 reconfirms our commitment to corporate responsibility by helping the communities in which we work, reside and play."

According to The Corporation for National & Community Service, as the economy slows and nonprofit organizations struggle to provide services, volunteers have become even more vital to the health of our nation's communities. Six Flags provides a realistic solution for many of these organizations. With almost 4,000 full-time employees participating in Project 6, Six Flags will donate more than 28,000 hours of service in just one business day - time worth over $567,000.*

Interrupting operations sends a powerful message to employees and consumers about the importance of philanthropy. Not many companies will take a potential loss in revenue, much less a guaranteed loss. Nevertheless, Six Flags didn't ask employees to donate personal time, instead Six Flags donated a day of work. It shows true leadership when a company takes such initiative.

Under Armour Steps Up in Support of the Wounded Warrior Project

2009-11-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

In support of Bloggers Unite Veterans Day event, Who Will Stand, it is an honor to highlight the Wounded Warrior Project and their corporate sponsor, Under Armour. Their efforts continue to make a significant and lasting impact on our Veterans.

Baltimore, MD. — Under Armour (NSYE:UA) today announced its partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, a not-for-profit organization that provides programs and services for injured service members and their families. The two have joined forces in conjunction with the University of South Carolina and University of Maryland football teams to recognize the sacrifices made by those who have served and those that continue to serve in our nation’s Armed Forces.

On November 14, in honor of our troops, the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and University of Maryland Terrapins will wear specially designed head-to-toe uniforms for their Game Day match-ups versus the University of Florida Gators and Virginia Tech Hokies respectively. The teams will take the field in black and desert camouflage uniforms featuring the Wounded Warrior Project logo. The uniforms will also have a unique twist; a core value embellishment - Duty, Honor, Courage, Commitment, Integrity, Country, and Service - will replace the players’ last name on the back of each jersey. Both games will be nationally televised.

Wounded Warrior Project and Under Armour will create special make-up products for fans to wear on game day to show their support. The gear will be sold in college book stores, local military base exchanges, and online. A percentage of the fan gear proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Additionally, a select number of game jerseys will be auctioned off after the game on the University websites and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

“Partnering with an organization such as the Wounded Warrior Project allows Under Armour a unique opportunity to connect with college football fans and our athletes on a whole new level, while also supporting the overall mission of the Wounded Warrior Project - to build public awareness and help support injured service men and women and their families,” said Kevin Plank, founder and CEO of Under Armour. “We will continue to both honor and empower those who have been wounded and we are proud to support our troops.”

Under Armour's collaborative effort to support the Wounded Warrior Project greatly benefits Veterans, but also invigorates football fans to get involved and support the cause. Fan participation creates additional exposure for Under Armour and their notable contributions, while also increasing awareness about the undeniable need to support Veterans. As this example highlights, a healthy partnership can do a lot of good for the cause and your company.

Dominick's and ABC 7 Chicago Join Forces for Annual Holiday Food Drive in Support of Greater Chicago Food Depository

2009-11-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

CHICAGO — Dominick's Finer Foods and ABC 7 Chicago will help stock pantry shelves this holiday season through the annual Dominick's & ABC 7 Chicago Holiday Food Drive. The eight-week event runs from Nov. 5, 2009, through Jan. 3, 2010. Last year, the food drive collected the equivalent of 837,653 pounds of food that benefited hungry men, women and children. This year, the goal is to gain the equivalent of more than 1 million pounds of food so that everyone in our community may enjoy the bounty of the holidays as 35 percent more people are turning to pantries for food assistance.

ABC 7 meteorologist Tracy Butler and anchor Hosea Sanders will help focus attention on the critical need to fight hunger, with live reports and weathercasts from three Dominick's stores on Tuesday, Dec. 1. To donate food and see the reports, visit the Dominick's store at 2550 N. Clybourn from 7-9 a.m., the store in Park Ridge (1900 S. Cumberland) from 11 a.m.-noon, and the store in Downers Grove (42 E. Ogden) from 4-4:30 p.m.

Additionally, Butler and Sanders will appear in public service announcements supporting the food drive. Butler has helped to spearhead the public service campaign for the Holiday Food Drive since 1999. ABC 7 public affairs program "Chicagoing," featuring Bill Campbell, will examine the issue of hunger in the area and the importance of the Holiday Food Drive with Kate Maehr, executive director, Greater Chicago Food Depository, Sunday, November 29 at 11:30 a.m. on ABC 7.

During this effort to fight hunger across Cook County, individuals can drop off nonperishable food items at the ABC 7 Chicago lobby, at 190 N. State Street, or at any local Dominick's location or by making a donation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository through Depository Dollars, available at the check-out counters of any Chicagoland Dominick's store in $1, $2 and $5 denominations. A complete listing of Dominick's stores can be found at www.dominicks.com.

A Virtual Food Drive will also be included on the ABC 7 Web site. The Virtual Food Drive appears similar to Web sites for online retailers, where Food Drive supporters can "buy" food items for donation to the Food Depository. All money raised from the Virtual Food Drive will be used to purchase high-quality, nutritious food needed by men, women and children in Cook County.

Dominick's Finer Foods and ABC 7 Chicago are leading their community in a multi-level effort to do good this holiday season. From encouraging individuals to donate can goods, donating themselves, and hosting an online donation campaign, they are doing everything they can to surpass the needs of the community. Not to mention, the ample media exposure their efforts are receiving — what better way to be known than as a company that is truly invested in the community it serves.

Verizon Legal Volunteers Launch New Program to Provide Free Legal Services

2009-11-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK — Verizon attorneys and legal staff have started a program that will provide free legal services to needy individuals and nonprofit organizations.

The program helps address a major issue: Nearly 1 million poor people will be denied representation in courts across the country this year because of insufficient resources, according to a recent study by Legal Services Corporation.

Verizon attorneys, who specialize in a variety of legal fields, and legal staff, will donate their time, talents and professional expertise, with an emphasis on civil matters involving education, domestic violence, and supporting veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

"This program is a natural extension of Verizon's long-standing commitment to the communities we serve," said Randal Milch, executive vice president and general counsel for Verizon. "With attorneys and staffers in 20 states and the District of Columbia, Verizon's pro bono program has the potential to have a significant impact in many of these communities."

Under the program, the more than 700 attorneys, paralegals and staffers in the company's legal department will be encouraged to volunteer a minimum of 25 hours a year. The department has established a Pro Bono Committee to oversee the program, approve pro bono projects and partners, assess the program's effectiveness, and ensure that volunteers have access to proper training resources.

The program will provide legal assistance in three key areas: education, domestic violence, and Veterans.

To broaden the program's reach, Verizon has partnered with the law firm of DLA Piper, which has a similar program that provides legal services to the needy, and joined the Corporate Pro Bono Challenge - a program sponsored by Corporate Pro Bono. The Challenge's goal is for at least half of the members of Verizon's legal department to participate in the program.

Partnering with other companies in the community can be a great way to make a big difference. Through Verizon's determination to meet a community need, others are encouraged to join in, allowing a greater number of people to be impacted by Verizon's initiative.

There is a strength in numbers. If you are feeling overwhelmed by a cause you want to support, try partnering with other companies that have similar passions. You might be amazed at the impact you make and the new relationships you gain in the process.

Independent Film Unites Bloggers and Hosts Free Screening in Honor of Veterans Day

2009-11-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS — In honor of Veterans Day, independent filmmakers are using "Who Will Stand" to raise awareness for veterans on Nov. 11.

The campaign includes a BloggersUnite.org event that asks bloggers to post and write about veterans on Veterans Day, including nonprofit organizations such as The Soldier's Project, Defending Freedom, Canines for Combat Wounded, Blue Star Mothers, and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Concurrent with the online event, The Galaxy Theatres at Cannery Casino & Hotel will host a special open-to-the-public, free screening of “Who Will Stand”. The screening will also feature entertainer Clint Holmes who performed the title song.

The free screenings will take place at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11 at the Galaxy Theatres in Las Vegas. Attendees are invited to make a donation to HELP USA LAS VEGAS, a Las Vegas-based organization that finds housing for homeless veterans.

The movie focuses on more than a dozen soldiers who were physically or psychologically wounded. It also profiles several charities dedicated to helping veterans.

Director Phil Valentine and Director of Photography Michael Bedik traveled across the United States to find soldiers who were willing to talk candidly about their issues. “Who Will Stand” is a call to action and inspires the community to help those brave men and women of our military.

A portion of the DVD sales will go to support organizations that help veterans anonymously, immediately and without cost. This includes the Wounded Warrior Project, Canines for Combat Wounded, The Soldiers Project and Help USA.

Not only is this film creating awareness in communities across the nation, but a portion of the proceeds will benefit many local nonprofits. By supporting the causes that support Veterans "Who Will Stand" is doing good and creating additional support for the film from people who are passionate about these causes.

Miracle Recreation Equipment Company Partners With National Center for Missing & Exploited Children to Promote Child Safety

2009-11-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

MONETT, Mo. — Miracle Recreation Equipment Company proudly announced today they have become a corporate sponsor of The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC). They have pledged to donate more than $250,000 to NCMEC over the next three years, and to help cover lodging costs necessary to reunite family members upon the recovery of missing children.

The money will be used to support NCMEC's mission of finding missing children, preventing child abduction and sexual exploitation, and serving child victims and their families. It will also support NCMEC's prevention education efforts targeted at providing resources and information for families to help keep their children safer. As part of the partnership, NCMEC will develop child safety tips for playgrounds and parks.

"In today's world, we as a society must all look out for the safety and security of our children," said Mike Sutton director of sales at Miracle and a former law enforcement officer.

Miracle's donation will be funded by the sale of playgrounds incorporating Miracle's new patent pending MiracleTech® integrated security product line. The MiracleTech® product line includes the ParkWatch® infrared security camera to digitally record events and to help deter inappropriate activity, SiteBrite® low voltage lighting, and the SonicScreen® patented sound technology, which is designed to help deter vandalism after hours.

"It is with the generous support of partners like Miracle that we are able to continue our work and help make children safer and better prepared for the risks that they face in today's world," said Ernie Allen, NCMEC president and CEO. "Together we can provide families with the tools and resources that can help make our communities safer, something that is important to both of our organizations."

Miracle's dedication to this cause sends a strong message to costumers. Miracle doesn't just sell playground equipment, they are invested in children's safety and well-being. Safer communities means more people will utilize parks and playgrounds. When we give to the community, the community inevitably gives back.

PETCO Offers Three Ways to Give to Pets in Need This Holiday Season

2009-10-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

SAN DIEGO — More than 1,000 PETCO stores nationwide will encourage families to Think Adoption First during National Pet Adoption Weekend Nov. 7 and 8 when they partner with their local animal shelters to hold adoption events. In addition, the National Pet Adoption Weekend kicks-off PETCO's annual Tree of Hope fundraiser for the PETCO Foundation and PETCO's partnership with the IAMS® annual Home 4 the Holidays® pet adoption drive.

"Last year PETCO raised more than $3 million through the Tree of Hope campaign in PETCO stores, and the PETCO Foundation was able to help more than 5,000 animal shelters," said Jim Myers, Chief Executive Officer for PETCO. "Through our National Pet Adoption Weekend and Tree of Hope campaign we hope to boost the number of animal adoptions and monies raised to make a positive difference in the lives of thousands of animals."

The Tree of Hope fundraiser allows PETCO customers to purchase snowflake card ornaments for $5, $10 or $20 donations through Dec. 24. Customers may also purchase PETCO Foundation "Peace on Earth, Good Homes for Pets" T-shirts or sweatshirts while supplies last. In addition, IAMS will donate $1 to the PETCO Foundation for every bag of IAMS cat or dog food sold at PETCO stores from Nov. 7 to Dec. 24 in support of the 2009 Home 4 the Holidays goal to find homes for 1.5 million animals by the end of the holiday season.

Every PETCO customer who adopts an animal through one of PETCO's sponsored animal adoption events or its charitable partners are invited to join PETCO's Think Adoption First program. When proof of a pet adoption is brought into a store and a P.A.L.S. loyalty program membership is activated, customers will receive a free brochure that features exclusive savings on food and supplies. In addition, new pet parents will receive a year-long series of educational e-mails regarding the health and well-being of their new pet, as well as special offers of up to 25 percent in savings each month.

Of course it makes sense for PETCO and IAMS to invest in a cause that supports animals, but they are also investing in the communities they serve by giving individuals who participate in the program long term incentives and support. Both these companies recognize the value of investing in local communities and are making a BIG difference for the pets and their owners. An investment that I am sure will be returned ten fold.