The saying ‘it’s better to give than to receive’ is particularly true this time of year when hope and generosity swirl in the air like stripes on a candy cane.

At 1Milk2Sugars, we believe the best way to show our appreciation and spread some holiday joy is by paying it forward to our community. That’s why, instead of sending physical gifts to our clients, partners, suppliers and staff, we’ll be making an in-kind donation to a local charity on their behalf.  We’ve chosen giving back over gifts for four years in a row as our agency’s way of putting some much-needed light back into the world.

If you’re a small business owner also wanting to give back but you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered! Read on for 4 ways your small business can make a BIG difference this holiday season.

  1. Swap Gifts for Giving: In lieu of sending physical gifts, show your clients, partners, vendors and suppliers how much you appreciate their support by making a charitable donation in their name. It’s the gift that keeps on giving long after the holiday season.
  2. Donate Time as a Team: Not only is volunteering good for your soul, it’s also a great team bonding activity that fosters employee engagement and strong interpersonal relationships. Some ideas for donating your time this holiday season include hosting a food, clothing or toy drive, packing food hampers for local shelters or writing holiday greeting cards to first responders and frontline workers.
  • Sponsor a Family: Organizations like the Salvation Army run sponsorship programs to provide hope and support for families struggling with food insecurity, unemployment and homelessness this time of year. Your company’s participation in this worthwhile initiative can help make a family’s holiday season a little brighter knowing there are people in their community who care.
  • Gift Your Products/Services: Look no further than your own small business for a meaningful way to give back this holiday season. Are you a salon owner? Consider partnering with a local shelter to donate your services one afternoon. Operate a coffee shop? Maybe serve some complimentary java to pedestrians passing by. A little creativity is all it takes to spread some love and cheer in your community.

Times haven’t been easy for small businesses these last few years and it’s wonderful that you still want to give back. Bravo! We hope this post has inspired you with some meaningful ways your small business can make a BIG difference this holiday season.

With best holiday wishes,

XO,

The Sugars