The Opportunity to Grow

In recent months I’ve had the great pleasure of working with a group of accomplished individuals from a variety backgrounds, industries and organizations on a community initiative that we look forward to introducing in the coming months. That’s a bit of a tease, but my experience working with this particular group is the inspiration for the topic of this article; the opportunity to give.

 

One of the assignments that this group of people had was to read a book entitled “The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea”. The book was written over a decade ago by authors Bob Burg and John D. Mann.   It is a simple read that espouses a timeless lesson about the great potential benefit that can come from being generous. While the lesson is not new, I believe it has great value for those who understand and practice it in everyday life.

 

There many opportunities to give, and if we’re being honest, the invitations and solicitations can sometimes be a little overwhelming. There are many tremendous organizations, causes, initiatives that could really use support; financial and otherwise. There are more things worthy of our charity than any one person or business can support entirely. So, decisions must be made. To make good decisions, it may take a little research. First, in the world of business at least, it is important to know your options.

The first step is research. Figure out what options exist. The second step is prioritization. What is important will vary form one person, one organization, one business to the next. I cannot, nor do intend to navigate too far from who I am or what I believe. As a Chamber President, I encourage others to consider supporting local first. Yes, that applies to everyday purchasing habits, but also to charity. Know what the options are right here in our community and weigh them against other options that you might be considering.

 

There are many organizations close to our home that need support. School organizations, service organizations, non-profit entities (i.e. Grimes Storehouse, Special Olympics of Iowa, MS Moments, etc.) churches, and many others, some of which we may not even be aware. Recently, the Grimes Community Foundation came together for their annual fundraising event, which this year supported the Dallas Center-Grimes Booster Club and the Friends of Fine Arts (FOFA). Later this year, the Dallas Center-Grimes Education Foundation will host their annual Red Dinner, which is another fundraising event that supports scholarships for graduating seniors of Dallas Center-Grimes High School, among other things.

 

Giving money is important and necessary, even encouraged for those who are able. However, it is not the only way to give. You can give of your time and talents. You can volunteer at events, for organizations meaningful to you. You can even have an impact closer to home; do what you can for a neighbor or someone who just needs some attention. Whether you are writing big checks (as can sometimes be done in an affluent community) or just being a good friend or neighbor, it is all important, meaningful, and often very rewarding. The ability to give is indeed a great opportunity. #lovegrimes