Lead the Way in Philanthropy

"There is a natural law, a Divine law that obliges you and me to relieve the suffering, the distressed and the destitute. . . The practice of charity will bind us... will bind all men in one great brotherhood."

Conrad Hilton, founder, Hilton Hotels


Corporate philanthropy is a good thing and there can never be too much of a good thing. Today, we find a handful of companies at the top of the chart in corporate philanthropy, while many more companies barely register.

The wonderful thing about philanthropy is that it has a multiplier effect. When your company makes a contribution to a worthy organization, event or program, it strengthens the capacity of the recipient to deliver the benefits it promises.

But philanthropy is not without some controversy. There are some who believe that the role of business is to provide better goods and services at better prices so that consumers can have better lives. Philanthropy, they assert, is better left to foundations and individuals rather than to corporations.

I disagree. There are many ways to give to charity—money, in-kind donations, product giveaways, volunteerism, loaning executives and other opportunities to make a difference. As a business leader, you can develop a wide range of strategies that will position your company in the forefront of corporate philanthropy. Your reputation will be enhanced.

(c) Adonis E. Hoffman, 2008.