GROW Series: Building A Purpose Driven-Business

Description

Building a Purpose-Driven Business: Crafting Your Charitable Contributions Program

A Workshop Guide for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)

 Facilitator: Michelle Massey, VP Community Outreach and Customer Support

Chamber Workshop Summary

This workshop will help Lansing Chamber members understand how a thoughtful charitable contributions program can strengthen their business, support employee engagement, and create meaningful local impact. Designed for small and medium-sized businesses, the session introduces the business case for giving through a practical “triple win” framework: benefits for the community, benefits for employees, and benefits for the company’s reputation, relationships, and growth. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of why community investment is not just a goodwill gesture, but a strategic tool for building trust, attracting talent, and deepening local connections.

The workshop also gives business leaders actionable ways to make their giving more focused and sustainable without requiring a large budget or complex structure. Attendees will explore how to define giving priorities, establish basic eligibility and review guidelines, choose an administrative approach that fits their size, and expand their impact through non-monetary contributions such as skills-based volunteering, in-kind support, community drives, board service, and long-term nonprofit partnerships. Chamber members will come away with practical ideas they can apply immediately to align their values, employees, and community relationships in a way that benefits both their business and the greater Lansing region.