Every business in the world exists to make money. But some businesses – truly special ones – have found a way to not only be profitable but also give back to their community and country. These businesses exemplify the best of what a good business can do by contributing to more than just their bottom line. Here are three noteworthy examples of businesses that are working to make a difference.
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods gives back to its home communities in numerous ways. According to their website, select stores will, on a quarterly basis, take a day and donate 5% of its sales to a designated nonprofit, such as local museums. They also give refunds to customers who use reusable bags, in an effort to increase sustainability and cut down on single-use plastic. The company also makes in-kind donations of gift certificates upon request, and they operate three foundations that make a variety of donations.
Jim Sattler Custom Homes
Jim Sattler Custom Homes has a long-standing tradition of giving back to its communities, and that philosophy is driven by company-wide participation. Jim Sattler worked with Habitat for Humanity to build homes for three families all in a span of five days. Numerous media reports noted that the event drew over 200 volunteers and was part of Habitat for Humanity’s “Homeowner Blitz,” which saw participants build for 250 families in 31 states. These efforts will help ensure that previously homeless families will have long-term shelter.
Royal Caribbean
In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, Royal Caribbean International is giving back to the Bahamas – one of their most popular ports – in a big way. They are doing so by donating $1 million to recovery efforts. Furthermore, according to a company announcement, the cruise line company was taking ships in their fleet, loading them with supplies, and sending them to the hurricane-ravaged island. Materials donated included towels, sheets, water, power generators and more. Other media reports noted that ships sent to the Bahamas put together tens of thousands of meals. The ship went so far as to transport medical attendants to those in need.
Companies often give for many reasons: To restore their public image, to generate goodwill, to promote positive word in the press, or to be good neighbors to the community they serve. Whatever the reason, the communities of those who are fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of an organization’s generosity should consider themselves fortunate to have these kinds of neighbors.
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