1. Identify a cause that fits your business. The goal should be to align your brand with a nonprofit cause or organization in order to create win-win marketing. If you own a steakhouse, for example, don't partner with a group that promotes the vegan lifestyle.  Look at what you sell and understand the targets you're trying to reach. Then align yourself with causes that will touch the emotions of that audience.

2. Care about the cause. There's no point in supporting an issue you don't really care about - people are bound to catch on. Having a genuine passion or interest in the cause means you'll stay engaged and you'll still feel successful.

3. Define your goals. Decide upfront why you're getting involved and what you want out of the partnership. There's a range of possible marketing benefits from such sponsorships. Non-tangible benefits include building company credibility, enhancing your reputation, differentiating the brand, strengthening customer loyalty, and improving employee pride and retention. Tangible benefits might include increased sales and specific publicity, such as increasing the company profile by having the name highly visible on walkathons and festivals or on posters and web sites.

4.  Get a signed contract. Just because you're dealing with a nonprofit is no reason to ignore standard business practices. Be specific about what you expect. Spell out the details and then get a signed contract.
5. Don't be modest. This is marketing, after all. That means you must spread the word.