In today’s society, with the rapid growth of technology and innovation in all industries, it is more important than ever that people are educated. The importance of education cannot be underestimated- a well-educated workforce is essential for future economic success. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a veteran business owner, like record label founder, Benjy Grinberg, the benefits of supporting public education are numerous!
In this article, we will discuss how businesses can support education in their own communities or nationwide. We’ll cover why public education is beneficial to everyone and ways entrepreneurs and businesses can get involved to impact their local school system.
The Importance of Education
Public schools are important for so many reasons, but one of the most critical benefits is that they provide children with a strong foundation to build on. A well-educated workforce will help our society move forward and prosper for decades to come; providing an excellent education is vital for developing tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and more!
How Supporting Education Can Impact Employees
Supporting education is not only beneficial to students and teachers, but it’s beneficial to employees as well. When employees donate time and/or money, they support a cause they believe in, which helps create a sense of community. Employees who feel like their company is invested in the success of public schools will be more likely to contribute and work hard because everyone is committed to the same goal – to give back!
It’s easy for businesses and entrepreneurs to get involved with the public school system; all it takes is some time and a willingness to make an impact. Some businesses have even opted to give employees a day off of work to volunteer at their local school, which is a great way to show employees how important education is.
Examples of How Companies Are Supporting Education
Some many businesses and entrepreneurs have succeeded in supporting public education. One example is the Starbucks Foundation, a big supporter of public schools, by donating more than $250 million over the past 20 years!
Another good example is the late Steve Jobs. When Jobs was first creating Apple Computers, Jobs decided to give back instead of taking all the profits for himself. He realized that to be successful. He needed a workforce with a wide range of skills and knowledge. As a result, Jobs donated $100 million towards public education, which helped fund college scholarships and new schools! He also made it a habit for Apple to donate its products to schools.
One of the biggest supporters of education is the Walmart Foundation. The foundation is a big proponent of public schools and has donated more than $400 million to public education-related causes over the past ten years!
Ways to Support Education in Your Own Business
If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur, like Benjy Grinberg, there are many ways to support education. One of the most important things you can do is get your company involved with your local school system to make sure the schools have all the resources necessary for success; this not only supports public schools, but it also ensures that when tomorrow’s workforce needs a job, they will be qualified to fill it!
Some ways for businesses and entrepreneurs to get involved in their local schools include:
Sponsoring or hosting an event, such as a fundraising auction
Sponsoring or hosting a fundraising event is a great way to support education and get employees involved. This is a perfect opportunity for companies or organizations because it can help bring additional marketing to the company while also investing in the future of society!
Sponsoring an auction with valuable prizes, such as high-end items, is another fun way to raise public schools that are good for employees.
Donating supplies like new books, pens/pencils, paper, etc.
With many school districts facing financial cutbacks, some schools have had trouble keeping education necessities stocked, like pens or paper. This has forced numerous educators to use their own money for classroom supplies. By donating or hosting a drive at the office, companies will help ensure that students have the educational materials they need for success.
Providing volunteer time to work in the schools
Allowing employees to volunteer at a local public school as a company culture day is another great way to show employees that the company values education. If it’s too hard for the entire company to take a day off together, employees could each be allotted 1 or 2 days per year to volunteer at the public school of their choosing.
Offering scholarships for students in need
If you can financially afford it, one of the best things you can do as an entrepreneur or business owner is to provide college scholarships for students who might not otherwise be able to attend due to financial constraints. This will not only make your community more educated and successful, but it can also help the next generation of leaders who might not have had a chance otherwise.
Supporting public education by advocating for it with elected officials
Another way to show your company’s support for public education is by advocating for your local schools. This means staying up-to-date with what’s happening in the community, attending meetings, and actively voicing concerns. Remember that many of your employees are likely parents, and employers who care about their children’s education can go a long way in establishing goodwill with your employees.
Conclusion
Supporting education is important, and as a business, there are many ways to give back. Benjy Grinberg started giving back with a $1,000 scholarship, and he noted what a huge impact it has already made on his employees. From donating supplies to the schools in need or providing scholarships for students who might not otherwise be able to afford it, your local public school will appreciate any contribution you can make! Not only will the schools appreciate the support, but employees will too.
