Giving to the Community is Good for Business

I have the good fortune of being a member of the Kiwanis Club of Conejo Valley, a local service club.  I joined the club to get more involved in the community and as a result I have developed some great friendships.  Anyone in business has heard that old saying, "you do business with people who know, like and trust you".  The  knowing and the liking aspects come easily, it's the trusting part that takes more time.  I've discovered that by working side by side in a meaningful project with someone, you learn so much more about them and  that trusting relationship develops. I do a lot of business with people I participate with in service projects because I trust them and they trust me. 

Anyone who knows me knows how important it is for me to give back to the community in some way.  I have done fundraisers for several foundations and organizations in the community.  It's a great way to not only help your business, but your clients will appreciate knowing that their purchase is helping someone else.

With the current state of the economy, we need to think outside the box. Partnering with other business people to do events or fundraisers is a winning combination.  If you have a great idea  please share it!