Introduction:
In the business world, setting your company apart from the competition and conveying its core values can be challenging. One effective way to achieve this is through philanthropy. Betsy Wiersma, the founder of the Denver Colorado CampExperience™ Network, has harnessed the power of philanthropy as a business tool for over 16 years. Through her network, she has raised over $1 million in cash and in-kind support for numerous charities, locally and globally.
The CampExperience™ Network:
The CampExperience™ Network, led by Betsy, brings together women from diverse backgrounds to make a positive impact. This network hosts both online and in-person events, promotions, and campaigns, and each year, they select charity partners to receive the network’s donations. Their focus is on specific projects or groups where they can make a significant difference, engaging their volunteers in the process.
Examples of “Doing Good and Having Fun”:
Betsy shares a heartwarming example from 2019, the “1000 Acts of Peace” initiative. The network collected over 20,000 essential items, including toiletries and snacks, and 130 women assembled 1000 care packages in just two hours. These packages were then delivered to the Mayor of Colorado Springs to distribute to agencies serving people experiencing homelessness. Such initiatives not only make a tangible difference but also create a sense of community and fun among participants.
Benefits of Community Involvement:
The CampExperience™ Network’s involvement in philanthropy has had numerous positive outcomes. It has elevated the organization’s reputation, attracted new members, and retained the loyalty of current ones. Their focus on helping others has also generated positive publicity and more opportunities for their members and sponsors. Betsy outlines three key tips for achieving community success:
1. Match Your Mission to Your Mate:
Choose a community partner whose values align with your organization’s mission and purpose. Research potential partners’ leadership stability, reputation, and the specific impact they make. Understand their needs and opportunities for your staff and customers to get involved.
2. Choose a Scale That Makes Success Easy:
Avoid overcommitting by selecting the scale of involvement that suits your organization. Develop a menu of options, both large and small, to cater to different interests, time commitments, and locations. Achieving small wins can build positive momentum and enhance your project’s reputation.
3. Just Do It … Go, Review, and Repeat:
After creating a partnership and action plan, take action immediately. The journey of helping others is often more rewarding than achieving a specific goal. It fosters relationship-building, connects hearts and minds, and generates fresh perspectives that benefit both the community and the organization.
Conclusion: In a fast-paced world, thoughtful philanthropic strategies can set your business apart and create a positive impact on your community. By embracing philanthropy and combining it with the joy of making a difference, organizations can strengthen their relationships, enhance their reputation, and contribute to meaningful causes while having fun along the way.