Local businesses stress the importance of giving back in a tough economy
Twinkle lights, parties and gifts – all a sure sign that the holiday season has arrived. For many Vancouver-area businesses, this is the busiest time of the year. However, it's not just about increasing profits – the holidays present an opportunity for companies to give back to the community.
Many local businesses use customer or employee-driven charity drives as a vehicle for giving back, collecting everything from toys and coats, to blankets or food.
Some of the gift-giving is a more muted affair, with businesses quietly writing checks or helping a person or family in need.
With Clark County's unemployment rate hobbling along at 12.2 percent, it's not difficult to find someone deserving.
"It's always important, but in today's climate it's one of those things we need to be doing," said Gerry Dowdy-Latshaw, of Windermere Real Estate – a company that partnered with Share and YWCA SafeChoice to host its annual "Share the Warmth" donation drive, which runs through December 17.
Dowdy-Latshaw said charity drives that involve customers and real estate agents are important because the act of giving can foster a real sense of community.
Sleep Country USA LLC, which has two stores in Vancouver, has been collecting toys for area foster kids during the holiday season for years.
"It's really easy to write a check," said Gina Davis, senior brand manager for Sleep Country in Kent. "We wanted something that we could involve our community in and our employees… Everybody gets to be part of this bigger mission and feel good that we're making a difference for kids."
Colleen Boccia, senior vice president and chief deposit officer for Columbia Credit Union, estimates 10 percent of her credit union's marketing budget goes to community education and outreach, which includes year-round charitable giving.
In addition to helping those in need, Boccia said giving back can strengthen a business community. She said companies that are looking to relocate often take charitable giving into account when considering an area.
"All of us want to do business with places that are doing the right thing," Boccia said.
A spirit of giving from the business community is good news for Sue Warren, director of development for Share, which shelters and helps homeless and transitional families.
Warren estimated that 65 percent of last year's charitable "Holiday Cheer Program," was funded by Clark County businesses. The program served 2,623 individuals and 578 families last season.
"This is one of the most giving communities," Warren said. "I think businesses, too, are having their own struggles, but they still feel it's important to give and help their community."
