Many companies give back to their communities, but some are making a difference in surprising ways. Chick-fil-A is helping to feed those in need in the U.S. and Canada. Their Chick-fil-A Shared Table Program fights food insecurity in local communities by donating surplus food items to local food banks and shelters. To date, the company has donated more than 30 million meals.
For 12 years, Walmart and Sam’s Club customers, members, and associates have shared the belief that ending hunger in our country is possible. After 12 years, through the “Fight Hunger, Spark Change” campaign, they have contributed over $271 million in donations and 9 billion pounds of food to the Feeding America network of local food banks.
Educating the next generation is a passion for companies like Starbucks and Samsung. Starbucks Global Academy provides free online courses for partners, customers, and community members. The company also partnered with ASU to provide a fully-funded education to qualifying employees through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan. This allows team members to work while taking classes then graduate with a bachelor’s and zero student loan debt.
Samsung’s Solve For Tomorrow program encourages young people to envision innovative solutions that can resolve challenges in their communities. Each year participants compete in three levels of problems solving. Contest finalists can pitch their ideas and win Samsung’s technology for their classrooms. The most recent Solve For Tomorrow winners were from Arkansas, Delaware, Indiana, and Connecticut.
If you want your company to begin making a difference in your community, think of ways you can help your neighbors. Find volunteer opportunities and work together as a team to help organizations close to home. Create a matching opportunity to donate to a cause that is close to your heart. Offer mentorships to community youth to help them build necessary skills. With a little effort, you can make a big difference.