Hi, fair traders! Many businesses are starting to recognize the benefits of giving back to their local communities as well as contributing to communities abroad through practices like Fair Trade. Not only can getting involved locally help a business prosper, but it also provides the intangible value of satisfaction knowing that you are helping others in your community. World’s Window, one of our retail partners, is a perfect example of how businesses can get involved with their local communities while also supporting Fair Trade.

Recently, the staff of World’s Window in Kansas City, Missouri, handed over a check of over $1,000 to Rose Brooks Center, a local shelter for women and children who have been victims of domestic violence, all from the sales of the Handmade Expressions Eco Shoppers . Out of the total sales of the continuing fundraiser, 50 percent of the proceeds is donated directly to the Rose Brooks Center.

Businesses that give back to nonprofits and charities benefit in many ways. I found a helpful blog entry listing 5 great ways in which giving back can benefit your business.

1. It creates new relationships.
Getting involved gives you a chance to meet new people in your community and can also serve as networking.

2. It can broaden your experience.
Volunteering in your community can teach you new skills and give you the chance to work in a new setting and meet new people.

3. It provides indirect marketing exposure.
Simply getting involved will get your name out there, and it needs no promotion at all.

4. It is good for your reputation.
By donating time or money to a cause, your name will be recognized for what you are contributing to the community.

5. It makes you more well-rounded.
When you get involved with your community for the right reasons, you will learn a range of different things and become well-rounded as both a person and a business owner.

Aside from these 5 benefits, giving back to the community also provides businesses with the intangible satisfaction of helping others and contributing to a cause that is important to them.

There are many ways in which businesses can get involved in their communities without involving monetary donations. Here are some more ways in which you can give back to your community:

1. Have an office volunteer day for a local nonprofit.

2. Donate old or damaged products to a local homeless shelter.

3. Have an office team sign up for a charitable walk or run.

4. Organize an open trash clean-up involving employees and others in the community.

5. Plant a garden or trees for your local community to enjoy.

Community involvement, like that of World’s Window, will help with your business’ success and that of your local community. What is your business doing to get involved with your community? Feel free to share your experiences!