Inspiring Investments
Inspired campaigns that care

Every time NFL running back Steven Jackson scores a touchdown, hungry children are fed.

This year the Las Vegas native pledged $2,000 to the BackPacks for Kids Program. Each child receives a backpack filled with food for the weekend. The $2,000 is enough to feed 200 hungry kids. Jackson’s fans pledge through his Web site http://www.sjchallenge.org/, giving a dime a yard, or $10 a touchdown.

Your business may not include a St. Louis Rams player, but you do have a team that can focus on one task. You also have a database of clients and alliances that want to sow the seeds of generosity.

Many companies are investing in ending hunger in Las Vegas, no matter the season. Many large gaming companies and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Las Vegas send over their chefs, students and employees to prepare meals at Three Square, according to an In Business article.
Source: http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/aug/28/souped--three-square/

Three Square, a Las Vegas nonprofit, is caring for more and more needy families. More than 70,000 people in the Las Vegas Valley experience hunger. This organization was started by Eric Hilton, of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, to replace a failed community food bank. Private donors continue to support Three Square. Its recent renovation, which included a large demonstration kitchen, was funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. All these foundations were created from successful businesses.

As we roll into the holiday season, no doubt your business is looking for opportunities to invest in the community as a team. We suggest discussing philanthropic passions with your employees. Designate a leader to make the calls and then schedule a group outing for your social cause. You don’t just have to send in volunteers, you could also give in-kind gifts or sponsor food drives. Cash is often the most appreciated donation. Your business can get creative with your gift and make it into an engaging campaign that attracts media attention:

• Coordinate an auction with donated items, or services provided by your staff. This might provide some comedic relief if you have employees who offer to wash a car for $25, or serenade the office for $50
  
  
• Hold a competition for artists or craftsmen. The small entrance fee will go toward your charity fund-raising event. Recruit a local group of experts to judge and lend their expertise. Food and drink sales at the awards’ reception can benefit your charity
  
  
• Organize a holiday pot-luck dinner with a silent auction. Not only will your employees and clients have an opportunity to mingle, but you’re also raising money for your cause

Your campaign or event might become so successful you need the assistance of experienced marketing professionals. BRAND approaches charity events with the same enthusiasm we infuse in your business marketing. Committed to our own nonprofit organizations, we will give your cause the same care.