Philanthropy at Mid-Market Firms: It Pays to Be Creative

Charitable contributions of small and midsize companies account for a significant amount of corporate giving. A creative approach to the use of company dollars and staff time not only maximizes assistance to those in need, but boosts company image and helps the bottom line. Common methods of giving by companies recognized as good corporate citizens include:

• pairing cash contributions with donated staff time;
• choosing recipients by a committee representing employees from different levels and departments; and
• selecting recipients of pro bono services carefully to showcase company talent and/or enhance reputation.