When times get tough, it’s easy to ignore the possibility of starting a charitable program in both large corporations and small businesses. However, there are many benefits to doing so that warrant consideration, even when the economy slows down.

In every stage of growth, businesses can take advantage of socially responsible programs that are incorporated into operations. Just a few of the benefits include higher shopper and staff commitments to your company, an improved community outlook, and the ability to drastically separate yourself from industry rivals.

How can you contribute?

Any amount that your company can give to a charitable cause can benefit your organization and the community. The sooner a program is fit into your mission, the better. Fiscal donations can be calculated by setting a per-sale rate or a percentage rate based on overall income.

Another option is to make some kind of product donation. Any type of product could be incorporated into a fundraiser for charities and other community organizations such as schools. One of the best examples of a product give-away approach is Toms Shoes. For every pair of shoes sold, the company gives a pair to a child in need. Their entire culture revolves around charity and is embodied in their slogan, Shoes for a Better Tomorrow.

How do you choose a charitable organization?

It’s important to carefully choose a charitable cause that will benefit the most amount people, including your business and employees. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself:

1. What group of people could get the most out of what I sell?

2. What is this organization trying to achieve?

3. What organization could promote your new partnership to the maximum amount of people?

After an appropriate organization is determined, you may want to verify their background prior to finalizing your plans or making a donation. The easiest way to do this is by visiting the American Institute of Philanthropy’s website, www.charitywatch.org. There, you can determine how your chosen organization is rated by the organization.

While a charitable cause could slightly increase expenditures for a small or starting business, the short term benefits related to public relations, and the long-term benefits connected to the a positive social image will far outweigh any initial costs.