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ASP Participates with Foundation Supporting Children's Services
As many of our readers know, ASP's close partnership with CFO Selections often brings the associates of our two firms together in client engagements. We're excited to announce that we are also joining with CFO Selections in directly funding the CFOS Foundation, a local foundation that provides time, talent, and treasure to children in need in Washington state.
 The CFOS Foundation was launched in 2007 by the partners of CFO Selections because they believed that even small companies have an obligation to re-invest in the communities from which they earn their living. We agree wholeheartedly, and so a portion of our yearly profits will be allocated directly to the foundation for community-based grants. As our part of giving time and talent, we will also be offering services to nonprofit organizations at reduced rates.
Corporate giving has been common in large companies for many years, but these days - in spite of the recession - a growing number of smaller businesses are including some form of 'giving back' in their business plans as well. There are many ways to support causes we care about through our workplaces. Business owners can give directly, or involve employees by offering matching funds, time off for volunteering, or discounted services. Some businesses choose to involve customers too, either by encouraging donations to the company's favorite charity (think "Ronald McDonald House") or by signing them up to help employees on company-sponsored volunteer days. If you're thinking of getting your own business involved (or more involved) in your community, here are some steps to consider: - Determine what causes you want to support - or do you prefer to help employees give time and/or money to organizations they choose themselves?
- If you decide on one or a few causes for your whole business to support, ask your employees for input, and don't forget to check out organizations on charitynavigator.org to ensure they are legitimate and will make good use of your money and time.
- Decide how you will help - money? volunteering? Some combination of both?
- Like Nike told us - just do it. You can start small and simple, and learn as you go.
ASP is growing fast. We're happy to have this opportunity to share the results of our success to improve the lives of children in our community. About the CFOS Foundation
In 2011, the CFOS foundation awarded over $50,000 in grants to organizations such as Amara Parenting, Children's Institute for Learning Differences, Global Visionaries, and Seattle Children's Home. CFOS Foundation funds allowed these groups to continue and expand services, improve program retention, and increase their capacity to serve client populations. Foundation grantees also often reap the benefit of access to CFO Selections associates -- experienced CFOs and CPAs -- to serve on their boards or to help management make financial decisions.
The CFOS Foundation is directed by an independently controlled advisory board of ten community leaders and is a component fund of the Seattle Foundation.
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