Looking for new ways for your business to make a difference? Whether you’re planning a one-time initiative or seeking a long-term partnership, giving back as a business is one of the most impactful things you can do—not just for others, but for your team and your brand.
In a city like Jacksonville, where community runs deep and local pride is strong, there are countless opportunities for companies to get involved in meaningful, memorable ways. From creative fundraisers to hands-on volunteer work, it’s easier than you think to turn your business values into real-world impact.
Let’s explore how your business can step up, give back, and get involved—right here in Jacksonville.
Why Your Jacksonville Business Should Give Back
If your company is ready to do more in the community, giving back is a powerful place to start. From team building to brand awareness, the benefits go far beyond just feeling good—though there’s plenty of that, too.
1. Tax Benefits
Donating to a qualified nonprofit can come with tax benefits that help your bottom line while supporting a meaningful mission.
2. Boost Brand Reputation and Visibility
Partnering with a local charity can increase visibility and position your brand as a business that cares. It’s a win-win for your reputation and your reach.
3. Increase Employee Engagement
When employees see their workplace giving back, it fosters pride, purpose, and stronger team connections. Giving feels good—and working somewhere that gives back feels even better.
4. Build Valuable Community Connections
Charitable involvement opens doors to valuable connections with schools, nonprofits, media, and other local businesses—all of which can benefit your brand long-term.
5. Make a Real, Local Impact
Whether you’re helping grant a child’s wish or supporting a local shelter, your business has the power to create real, positive change right here at home.
At the end of the day, giving back makes your business stronger—from the inside out. It shows your customers, employees, and community what you truly stand for—and that’s something worth investing in.
How To Give Back
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to giving back—and that’s the beauty of it. Whether your business wants to donate, get hands-on, or rally your team around a great cause, there are plenty of ways to make a difference right here in Jacksonville.
1. Make a Meaningful Donation
Giving back doesn’t always require a big campaign—sometimes, the biggest impact comes from a simple donation. Whether you make a one-time contribution or set up monthly giving, your support helps local nonprofits continue their work in the Jacksonville community.
Some charities also offer corporate sponsorship programs that include perks like promotional opportunities and volunteer involvement. Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida®, for instance, partners with businesses through its Champions of Hope initiative.
In-kind donations are also a great fit for many businesses. If you offer products or services that could support a nonprofit’s mission—like food for an event, supplies for a youth program, or items for a silent auction—your contribution could go a long way.
2. Organize a Giving Campaign
A well-planned giving campaign is a great way to activate your team and community around a shared goal. Whether you’re collecting funds, supplies, or volunteer pledges, a campaign gives people a tangible way to participate and make a difference.
Jacksonville businesses have gotten creative with everything from office-wide donation challenges to customer-facing promotions that raise money for causes close to home. You can run a one-day blitz or stretch it out over a month—whatever fits your workflow.
Plenty of local nonprofits (including Make-A-Wish) offer guidance for business-led fundraisers, so don’t be afraid to reach out for ideas or support. And remember: a successful giving campaign doesn’t have to be flashy—it just needs heart and a clear call to action.
3. Match Employee Donations
One of the easiest (and most impactful) ways to give back as a business? Match what your employees are already giving. Whether you match dollar-for-dollar or offer a set contribution for each donation made, this kind of program shows that your company supports its team—and the causes they care about.
It doesn’t need to be complicated. Some Jacksonville businesses choose a specific charity each quarter, while others let employees choose their own organizations. Either way, matching contributions turns individual giving into a powerful group effort.
It also sends a clear message: your company is invested in doing good—and you’re willing to stand behind your team to make it happen.
4. Participate In A Charity Event
Not everything has to happen in the boardroom. Sometimes, the best way to give back is to get outside and get involved. Whether it’s a charity walk, local fundraiser, or community gala, events like these bring people together—and your business can be part of that.
Sponsor a table, sign up a team, or just show up and support. Jacksonville has tons of great annual events (like Walk For Wishes or the Wishmaker’s Ball) where local businesses can make a difference and get their name in front of the community.
Plus, it’s a great way to boost team morale, meet other businesses, and show that your company doesn’t just talk the talk—you show up.
5. Volunteer
Want to give your staff a change of scenery and do some good while you’re at it? Organizing a volunteer day is a great way to give back as a group. Whether you’re packing meals, painting a wall, or helping build something awesome for a local family, there’s no shortage of ways to pitch in.
Jacksonville nonprofits love working with corporate groups, and many will tailor opportunities to your team’s size, interests, or skills. Some businesses even make this a monthly or quarterly tradition—it’s that rewarding.
At the end of the day, it’s about showing up together, doing something meaningful, and walking away feeling like you made a difference.
How To Choose the Right Cause
Not every nonprofit will be the right fit for your business—and that’s okay. The key is finding a cause that clicks with your company’s purpose and people. Here are a few things to think about:
What matters most to your team?
Pick a cause that reflects your values as a company. When your team cares about the mission, they’re more likely to get involved—and stay involved.
Where can you make the biggest difference?
Think about where your resources, services, or skills could go the furthest. Maybe there’s a smaller Jacksonville nonprofit doing incredible work that just needs a little extra support to grow their impact.
Can you trust the organization?
Before diving in, take a moment to check the nonprofit’s credibility using a site like Charity Navigator. A trustworthy organization will be clear about how donations are used and the results they’re achieving.
Use Your Business to Make a Bigger Impact
Supporting a local cause is one of the most meaningful things your company can do—not just for the community, but for your team and brand. Whether it’s through donations, events, or hands-on volunteering, your business can be a powerful force for good in Jacksonville.
Looking for the right nonprofit partner? Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida® is always eager to team up with businesses that want to help make life-changing wishes come true. Contact us at 904-580-5906 to get connected or email Jaclyn Barnett at jbarnett@cnfl.wish.org.
