The Importance of Giving

In today's fast-paced and competitive business world, it's easy to get distracted by the pursuit of profit and success. Let’s be honest... Profit and success are great – however, not if they’re our sole focus. At Light, we aren’t doing business to get rich – we are doing it to make a real difference.  

Three of our five core values are related to this exact idea: Love like Jesus, Intentional Living, and Help Others. As a faith-forward company (yes, you read that right!), and as Christians, we live and work with a servant mindset. In scripture, you don’t have to look very hard to find numerous verses that emphasize the importance of giving back to others. One such verse is found in Luke 6:38, which says,  

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

As believers, we are called to be generous and compassionate, extending our resources and talents to those in need. While the act of giving back is undoubtedly beneficial for the recipients, it also brings numerous advantages to businesses themselves, such as:  

• Building stronger communities. When businesses invest in their local communities, they contribute to the growth and well-being of the people who support them. This can also lead to increased loyalty and support for local businesses. Stronger communities also attract new talent and potential customers, benefiting the business down the road as well.  
• Earning a positive brand image. When an organization is actively involved in philanthropic activities, it cultivates a supportive perception among customers, employees, and the wider community. People are more likely to support and trust a company that demonstrates a genuine commitment to making a difference in the world.  
• Fostering employee engagement and satisfaction. When employees see that their company cares about the community, they feel proud to be a part of it. This sense of pride and purpose translates into increased loyalty, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.  
• Opening doors for new partnerships and collaborations. By aligning with charitable organizations and community initiatives, businesses can expand their network and gain access to new opportunities.  
• Creating a ripple effect. When organizations give back to their local community, they inspire others to follow suit. The collective effort can lead to a positive transformation and a more compassionate society.  

At Light, we are intentional about giving our time and resources away. For instance, in 2022 we donated 32% of our bottom line and over 350 hours to nonprofits! Once you make giving one of your goals, it’s quite easy to accomplish. There are needs everywhere if you are willing to look.  

We proudly contribute to our community through various initiatives, including our Annual United Way Giving Campaign, where the sale of candles becomes a beacon of support. The inaugural Fiesta 4 Impact event embodies both celebration and positive change, while Live United Give United Day unites our team in a common cause. Our commitment extends to Giving Hearts Day, where volunteering and personal donations amplify our impact. As sponsors of local events, we grow community connections. In addition to these various initiatives, our team's active participation on boards and in various community groups reflects our dedication to creating meaningful change beyond the workplace. For us, community isn't just a priority; it's a shared commitment woven into everything we do.

As business leaders, we have a remarkable opportunity to make a lasting impact on our communities. By prioritizing the needs of others and investing in the well-being of the community, we can truly make a difference. Not only in terms of profit but also in terms of love, compassion, and service.  

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“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”  Matthew 5:14-16

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