NOV NIBJ: Gratitude: The business of giving back

As leaders in the business sector, we often find ourselves focused on future prospects — what opportunities lie ahead? Who are our next customers? What challenges must we tackle, or goals strive to reach?

However, it is crucial to occasionally pause and reflect on what we already have ― and acknowledge those who have helped make it possible.

Gratitude transcends mere personal sentiment; in communities like Sandpoint, it embodies a significant business principle. Our local business community is based on relationships. Behind each shop, service provider, restaurant, nonprofit organization, and professional office are individuals dedicated to enhancing our community through their time, skills, resources, and effort. These individuals include employers, volunteers, mentors, coaches, neighbors, and advocates for the community.

Giving back is one of the ways we say thank you.

For some businesses, this may involve sponsoring local events or aiding nonprofits. For others, contributions could take the form of product donations, offering meeting spaces, engaging employees in community initiatives, or sharing knowledge with emerging entrepreneurs. Sometimes the most impactful gesture is simply being present.

The beauty of giving back lies in its diversity—there is no universal approach applicable to every business. Each entity possesses unique resources and abilities. A smaller enterprise might not afford substantial monetary donations; however, its owner could contribute by serving on a nonprofit board or volunteering at community events or mentoring fellow entrepreneurs. Such efforts hold immense value.

And giving back is not simply about what a business gives. It is about what happens when businesses become invested in the community around them. Strong communities create strong business environments. When we support local organizations, shop locally, volunteer, and invest in community projects, we help create a place where people want to live, work, visit, and build businesses. That benefits all of us.

In my role as Executive Director of the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, I have the privilege of witnessing this culture of generosity firsthand. Our members consistently step up to support each other and contribute to the larger community—sponsoring events, volunteering their time and expertise while welcoming new enterprises and celebrating achievements.

As we move through another busy year, I urge every business owner and community member to reflect on two questions: Who has assisted you throughout your journey? And how can you reciprocate?

This might involve expressing gratitude towards an employee or mentor, supporting a neighboring business through volunteerism, or making an introduction that helps another business succeed.

Gratitude becomes especially meaningful when we turn it into action.

A thriving business community is not built by businesses alone. It is built by people who believe that when we invest in one another, everyone has an opportunity to thrive.

That is the spirit of giving back ― and it is something worth being grateful for.

Joan D. Urbaniak is the executive director at The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at [email protected].