Why it is Important for Businesses to Support Charities
Businesses have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in their communities through supporting charities. Not only does charitable giving help those in need, but it also aligns with the values of their employees, suppliers and customers. Supporting charities can help businesses build stronger relationships with their communities. By partnering with local charities, businesses can show that they are invested in the well-being of their community and are committed to making a positive impact.
As a “people first” business we want to make sure that the charities we support are close to the hearts of everyone in our team. We have a dedicated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)Champion, whose role it is to promote our charitable causes internally, make sure we support them in the most relevant way, and to coordinate events and awareness activities. Over the last few years, we have raised thousands of pounds for local and nationwide charities
Carrington West Co-founder and Director, Alex Kerr leads his team by example. Last year, in addition to the thousands of pounds Carrington West raised as a company, he raised over £3,000 pounds himself through a variety of fund-raising activities for charities close to his heart. How did he do this, well, let’s just say there was a lot of running involved, including a marathon!
“Giving back, whether that’s raising money or awareness for causes close to our hearts is what life’s all about. If you have the ability to make a difference and to help others - you should.”
He adds,
“I was fortunate as a child, as I was the beneficiary of a full paid scholarship to a great school which played a part with providing me with fantastic opportunities in life. I may not have been able have many of the positive experiences I have had without support from people not known to me, and for that I am grateful.”
Alex has always had a big love of animals, he worked as a dive photographer in the Caribbean as a teenager &has recently raised money for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). In 2022, Alex ran a solo marathon, around the island of Cozumel, Mexico. He says of the experience,
“It was way too hot; I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone! The temperature was 30°C, which felt more like 40°C with the humidity so it was horrible! The course was a loop around the island so you are very aware of how far away you are from start/finish line. I was kept going by a taxi driver I hired to meet me every 6 miles with water!”
The experience hasn’t deterred him, and earlier this month, Alex ran another marathon, this time in Ibiza, where he enjoyed a cooler 20°C, albeit with a few hills to combat.
As directors of a fast growing and commercially successful company, Alex and Carrington West’s senior leadership team are very aware that charitable giving can also be a powerful tool for customer and employee engagement and retention. Many customers and employees are looking for companies that share their values and making a positive impact in the world. By supporting charities, businesses can show that they are committed to making a difference and can help attract and retain top talent and customers.
But ultimately - giving back is simply the right thing to do.
