Let’s face it, the goal of every business during the holiday season, whether traditional brick and mortar or e-business, is to generate revenue. However, in generating that revenue, especially in the case of an e-business, the local community is often overlooked as a valuable resource.
Stop what you’re doing right now and take a moment; look out the nearest window and think about what you see.
Now, think about how your strengths as a business might benefit those in the community where you work. Consider extending a helping hand and, not only will you be helping to build a better community, you will be taking important steps in building a better business for you and your employees.
Rather than just look out the window, we decided to take a more proactive approach and hit the streets to see what was going on. One thing that became an instant reality was that the corner of our block was a congregation spot for several homeless in the city.
Unfortunately, Lancaster City, like most cities in the United States has a growing number of individuals and families that do not have permanent residences, lack proper clothing, and eat less than one meal a day. Luckily, our city has a shelter that can provide a warm bed, three healthy balanced hot meals, and warm clothing to those who have fallen upon hard times.
According to Nichole Mobley, Volunteer Coordinator at the Water Street Mission, the shelter has been providing help to men, women, and children since 1905. She added that the Mission also offers services such as counseling, medical and dental care, and career support to help those in need reconnect with society in a positive and reassuring manner.
Nichole stressed that the best way to begin this process is fulfilling the basic need for food and shelter.
When asked how we could help, Nichole suggested the following:
- Tell others about it
- Donate money, food, and/or clothing
- Volunteer
- Donate a service, such as career training in your field
We decided to knock out two right off the bat and collected food & winter clothing for delivery to the shelter.
To help the Water Street Mission please visit their site to volunteer and to see lists of needed items and special needs for the holidays.
Now, we challenge you to follow our lead and start building a better community. Be the first to plant a seed in your neighborhood that will blossom into generosity and compassion that can last a lifetime!
If you do plant that seed, we want to know about it! So, please contact Sandee Hart (sandee@paradoxloabs.com), ParadoxLabs Public Relations Director, and see your story in our January Newsletter!
Watch for pictures on Facebook & Twitter to see the ParadoxLabs team building a better community!