Summer is almost here, which means many not-for-profit organizations are starting to plan for outdoor activities to help raise much-needed funds. Whether it’s a walk-a-thon, bike ride, golf tournament, or some other sports activity, non-profit groups will be seeking sponsorships to help maximum fund-raising opportunities. No doubt your spa or massage practice will be contacted by one or several organizations to donate services to the event. For example, a 15-minute massage could be a nice and profitable addition to a golf tournament or a bike ride.
With all the demands on your spa or massage practice, you may be reluctant to donate staff and time to promote the event through your own social media, email updates, and other marketing channels. However, volunteering your massage therapy services can pay significant dividends. A study by Ernst & Young and the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund found that 62 percent of small business owners say that giving back to their community has made their company more successful in the long run. That’s because giving back can help to:
Gain the community's goodwill
Giving back to the community is an excellent way to build goodwill. Clients value your contribution, and you gain respect among community leaders who may help promote your company to other local organizations and their contacts.
Promote your business
When you volunteer, you get to showcase your expertise and services to potential new clients. Depending on the event, you even may get press coverage about your involvement for greater exposure.
Network
Volunteering provides you with an opportunity to network and potentially meet other professionals who may be helpful in co-marketing activities or who can introduce you to other companies and business leaders.
Employee benefits of giving back
Today’s millennial employees seek fulfillment in ways beyond simply bringing home a paycheck, though that, of course, matters. Ron Guerrier, chief information officer for Farmers’ Insurance, writing in “The future of your workforce, so how do you attract millennials?” advises that offering employees an opportunity to participate in community service can help to engage and retain millennial employees.
In addition to fulfilling today’s younger workforce's desire to “give back,” volunteer programs provide opportunities for employees to build their skills. Providing massage services to participants after a run or bike race can help improve sports massage expertise, for example.
Team building is another advantage that comes from your spa or massage practice volunteering for a charity. Working together for a cause supported by your spa or massage practice helps build stronger bonds among employees.
While you may get a lot of requests for help, be selective in evaluating potential charitable partners. Be sure that your spa or massage practice achieves the goals you set. Work with your team to decide what qualities and characteristics of an event make the right fit.