One of the things that I love to do in my role as a business owner is to look at ways that I can give back to the community. One of those ways is by volunteering or assisting charities or communities to raise funds.
I am very appreciative of what successes come my way, and as a busy person, I love to get involved in areas where I can contribute to make a difference and support other like-minded people. This is very rewarding and something that I find incredibly self-satisfying. It may be volunteering in local community organisations as a helper or taking on a position in a committee or fund raising group. Whether you choose to serve food to the homeless, help those less fortunate than you, act as a volunteer in your child’s sporting teams or clubs, set up a stall to raise money for charity, or donate items that you no longer have use for, these are all important jobs or acts that are appreciated and often needed.
Whether you take on some of these opportunities in your role as a business leader or find a way to involve others or involve your staff where possible. People love to be a part of something that gives back and you’ll be surprised by how generous people can be with their time, input, and support of causes that they feel passionate about. People enjoy making a positive difference; never underestimate this. You may band together to man a stall, you might register a team to raise funds in an activity or event, such as a marathon or charity walk, or you may volunteer your time for a charity fundraising event. There are so many options available, find one that complements your business and/or your values when finding causes or organisations to support.
Our franchise head office would pick a charity to focus on each year on a national basis; one year it was CanTeen, another year the Red Cross. We would always try and put our spin on that by supporting or working with the local branch to assist them with their efforts. One year we knew a person suffering with breast cancer, so we aligned ourselves to the Cindy MacKenzie Breast Cancer Foundation (a local organisation based here on the Sunshine Coast), which supports ladies and their families with breast cancer, something we all felt passionate extremely about.
Since my son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes four years ago, I now support charities that raise funds or awareness for those living with T1D. Working in travel, I’m approached on a regular basis by people that want to spend time working in an orphanage overseas to help children in need; volunteer as a nurse or aid in countries such as Ethiopia to help where they can; or participate in overseas adventures to challenge themselves and also raise funds for charity at the same time. I am in awe of these people, and all of these efforts are not only commendable but demonstrate strongly people’s desire to make a real difference in the world we all live in. It comes back to having a purpose, something to focus on that makes you feel good about yourself and helps others, whilst also contributing to your health, wellbeing, and feelings of self-worth.
We are a proud supporter of the DANII Foundation and donate $3 for every book sold to this amazing cause!
Check out www.zoesparks.com for all the details
And for more information on the DANII Foundation – check out www.danii.org
