Editor’s Note: The Inside Track is a recurring column designed exclusively for our Just Business email newsletter. Authors of these columns aim to provide you with their own perspective on a current trend or development within their industry, getting you on The Inside Track.

Many businesses and their employees devote hundreds of hours of volunteer work annually assisting their local communities. This common bond between nonprofit organizations and local businesses can create invaluable benefit to the business, its employees and the nonprofit organization. Through these partnerships businesses can contribute professional knowledge and expertise to help nonprofits develop programs and serve the community. In turn, businesses have the opportunity to fulfill charitable goals, foster employee growth and satisfaction and nurture professional relationships.