Commentary by Jack Wolcott

Once again, the season for being thankful and sharing our bounty with others is upon us. As we begin our holiday shopping, I thought it would be appropriate to discuss something that occurs regularly throughout the year. It is something that I think many people almost take for granted and don't realize the broad scope and total value and cost.

I am thinking of the many donations that local businesses give to support local charities, youth groups, schools, etc. Local businesses are asked for a donation, door or raffle prize, auction item, or other contribution on almost a weekly basis. While most businesses are willing to contribute what they can, this often puts them in a fairly difficult position if the person requesting the donation does not call first to set up an appointment or bring a leaflet with information about the organization and event. Without advance planning, it is hard to make a significant contribution if the owner does not know what else they may be asked to donate in the months to come.

One of the projects the Corvallis Independent Business Alliance hopes to initiate this coming year is to compile a basic calendar of annual events and donation requests so our members can plan their contributions as they make out their budgets. As we are a member-driven, volunteer organization, we need to find someone to gather and schedule the information before we can realistically begin this project. We hope to start early next year, so if anyone can help, please contact us at info@corvallisIBA.org">info@corvallisIBA.org or 752-0047.

We know there will always be new occasions, but if the regularly scheduled events could be planned for as the budget is established, then we could make the unplanned donations without the worry of not being able to contribute to something later that really needs our support or that we particularly favor.

I think it also highlights an important difference between national retailers and locally owned, independently operated businesses. The businesses with distant owners usually budget a certain amount for "goodwill" and make their donations to recognized organizations to gain publicity and simplify their handling of requests from small, local groups. Local owners live, shop, recreate, and raise their children here and have friends who do the same. They often make their decisions based on their personal values and how the request relates to their friends and community.

The amounts may be smaller and they may not receive the same recognition as the national retailers, but their motivation is based more on supporting their community than any publicity received. If you look at the total donations as a percentage of sales, the local merchant usually gives a substantially higher percentage.

This is often overlooked as a reason to support locally owned businesses, but they are the ones who continually contribute for yearbooks, program guides, fun runs, auctions, door prizes, etc. Last month I discussed word-of-mouth advertising. I believe that this holiday season is a valuable way to demonstrate to our local merchants that you appreciate their support of community activities by shopping locally as much as possible. You will be amazed at the quality and quantity of goods and services available, and you will feel good about returning the support they have given our community throughout the year.

May you all have a peaceful holiday.
lars, 8:08 AM [link]