Companies that give back
Growing up, Tony Robbins’ family had very little money. His parents regularly argued about finances, and Tony grew up seeing that you could get by on very little, but also learned how stressful it was to feel strapped for cash. One Thanksgiving, Tony and his family were at home, and didn’t have the abundance of food that comprises a typical American Thanksgiving – in fact, they had practically nothing. A man unexpectedly showed up at the Robbins’ home, bringing with him an uncooked turkey and tons of food.
This experience stuck with Tony Robbins for the rest of his life. Experiencing kindness from a stranger during one of the most trying times in his life resonated with him. Tony’s ability to grow as an entrepreneur and businessman stemmed from his desire to always feel like he could take care of himself and his loved ones. Today, Tony Robbins runs a multi-million-dollar business. From running events around the world to coaching top entrepreneurs, athletes and entertainers to writing books, Tony has created an incredible business empire.
Success doesn’t begin and end with one person, though. Tony Robbins’ company prides itself on making philanthropic strides, regularly giving to charities, including Feeding America and Operation Underground Railroad. The feeling of generosity from that Thanksgiving stuck with Tony, until he was finally able to put that sentiment into words: The secret to living is giving.
Like Tony Robbins’ brands, there are incredible companies that give back throughout the United States and the world. When you choose to spend your money with these companies, you can trust that your purchase is going to an organization committed to doing some good for the world.
AirBnB
AirBnB is an innovative company that has revolutionized the travel industry. A true disrupter in the marketplace, the home-sharing online marketplace not only provides affordable lodging options, but is one of our favorite companies that give back to the community. The company’s powerful OpenHomes campaign provides temporary housing to people who have been displaced by conflict, illness or natural disasters in their home countries. By partnering with nonprofits who work more closely with refugees, AirBnB provides a much-needed resource – shelter – to people who need it most.
SoulCycle
Since opening in 2006, SoulCycle has developed a culture of raving fans. As the most popular indoor cycling experience in the nation, the brand now has more than 100 locations and has garnered celebrity endorsements over the years. Most impressively, SoulCycle is one of many generous companies that donate to charity, hosting thousands of charity rides. Large and small businesses can come together to raise money for the cause of their choice. Each year, SoulCycle raises more than $2.5 million dollars for various nonprofits through a fun and physical activity.
Starbucks
Starbucks is arguably the most recognizable coffee brand in the world. In 2017, there were more than 27,000 Starbucks coffee shops worldwide. In addition to providing delicious coffee to their customers, the brand also gives back. The Starbucks Foundation is the coffee giant’s effort to give back to communities who need it most. In 2015, the Starbucks Foundation gave nearly $7 million dollars to various nonprofits; the money helped create grants to serve underprivileged youth, generate community service efforts, provide access to clean water and support farming communities around the world that produce coffee, tea and cocoa. Businesses giving back to the community, such as Starbucks, make not only a local, but global, impact for good.
Salesforce
Of the many companies that give back to the community, Salesforce’s philanthropic efforts are some of the most thoroughly ingrained in their company culture. The software company encourages their employees to volunteer (each Salesforce employee gets seven days off annually to volunteer), lead skill-based volunteer efforts that spearhead pro bono campaigns and engage in employee-inspired acts of giving. Additionally, Salesforce is part of the Pledge 1% campaign, which challenges organizations to pledge 1% of their time and resources to charitable causes. Over the past 18 years, Salesforce has given more than $168 million in grants, 2.3 million hours of community service and given product donations to more than 32,000 nonprofits and educational facilities.
Patagonia
Patagonia pledges 1% to the planet, meaning that since 1985 the brand has given over $89 million to organizations that support making positive environmental change in local communities. That includes doing things like restoring forests and rivers, helping fight climate change, protecting endangered animals and critical marine and land habitats and supporting local agriculture.
Businesses giving back to the community know that the secret to living is giving. Is your corporation looking to start making a positive impact? Whether it’s supporting your local youth sports programs or creating environmental grants that benefit farmers across the globe, you and your business can make a big difference today.
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