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GIVING
SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL
10 ·
2018 GG
In business as in life, win- ning is important, but winning does not necessarily have to come at another’s expense. In fact, through corporate as well as individual giving, America is witnessing a revolution of sorts. Philanthropic efforts by organizations are galvanizing communities. Employees at organizations all across the country are more engaged, motivated, and have a stronger sense of loyalty, based in large part to their organization’s charitable giving approach. On an individual level these same employees are seeing dramatic and very positive personal health benefits. This is surely a win/win scenario, and not just a bumper sticker or platitude win/ win scenario, but one that could play a role in changing the course of business and personal health in this country. Corporate philanthropy is nothing new but the way it is being handled by the most successful organizations has changed. The biggest of these changes is that employers are allowing their em- ployees to determine which charitable organiza- tion should be supported. This creates a strong bond and demonstrates that the employees real- ly do have a voice within the organization. The second biggest shift in corporate philan- thropy is choosing to support a particular issue rather than the more traditional charitable or- ganization. The reason this works so well is that although people may not agree on which of the many worthwhile charities is the correct one for them to support, generally they can agree on issues that truly concern themselves and their communities. These two changes have had a dramatic im- pact on both employee engagement and morale. These are areas in which all organizations are looking to improve as they seek the holy grail of a perfect culture. In fact a recent study by O.C. Tanner found that 37 percent of employees felt more connected to their company culture when they had opportunity to participate in charita- ble events. The perceived impact on morale was even stronger with 57 percent of respondents believing that charitable events made for happi- er teams. Individuals also take many health benefits from philanthropic ventures. The old adage “it is bet- ter to give than receive” proves to be incredi- bly accurate. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that there are numerous benefits to giving, including reduced blood pressure, reduced stress, lower levels of depression, and greater levels of per- ceived happiness. In a 2013 study from Carnegie Mellon Universi- ty, adults over 50 years of age who volunteered at least 200 hours in the past year (four hours per week) were 40 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure than non-volunteers. Making the case for philanthropy is not tough. In fact when traced back to its origins the word itself means “kindliness, humanity, benevolence, love to mankind”. Whether a corporate giant, a business mogul or an average Joe, it should be clear to all that there is a place for charitable giv- ing. The great Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” An amazing quote by an amazing man, and based on that quote here is my chal- lenge you. Can you take the lead within your or- ganization to create a philanthropic venture that benefits your community? The benefits of these types of initiatives are so substantial that your community, organization and employees will be forever changed for the better! – Cameron Black, CCWS Director, Corporate Wellness Consulting Ollis/Akers/Arney Ollis/Akers/Arney Springfield Office 2274 E Sunshine St Springfield, MO 65804 417.881.8333 Branson Office 201 Buccaneer Blvd Branson, MO 65616 417.334.5115 Bolivar Office 471 S Springfield Ave Bolivar, MO 65613 417.777.5664 El Dorado Springs Office 205 Hwy 54 West El Dorado Springs, MO 64744 417.876.4646 Email. ollisadmin@ollisaa.com Corporate Philanthropy is the Gateway to Corporate Health Cameron Black JOIN US FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL WELLNESS CONFERENCE When: Thursday – November 1, 2018 Where: White River Conservation Center Registration Fee: $50 per person Keynote Speaker: Chad Porter | Difference Maker Conference Theme: “Clear Goals – Clear Purpose” Hosted by: Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors Chad Porter is one of the nation’s most inspirational and motivational speakers. He is one of the five motivational speakers in the world that is part of the elite Zig Ziglar International Team. He comes highly recommended by Corporate CEO’s, Fundraising Executives, athletic teams both collegiate and professional and Conference Event Planners all over the country. World Champion Trot Nixon of the Boston Red Sox describes Chad as “one of the best motivational and inspirational speakers I’ve ever heard.” For more information or to register, visit https://www.ollisakersarney.com/events/wellness-conference .