Voluntary sector link
Many voluntary sector organisations (VSOs) are able to help and support the business sector with environmental issues - to the mutual benefit of both organisations. For example, a decorating company could donate leftover paint to the local Repaint scheme, or old furniture may be useful to organisations involved in carpentry.
To identify local groups who could assist you with recycling and re-use, or present innovative and environmentally friendly opportunities, contact your local Volunteer Centre or explore the practices of national organisations through their websites or local branches.
The range of VSOs you may wish to link with will depend upon your business activities or your geographic location.
Benefits
Working with voluntary organisations, when effective, can effect your business bottom line positively, providing:
- Consultation with experts at little or no cost
- Financial savings
- Word of mouth marketing
- Improved links with local community
Process
A structured approach can ensure that your organsiation - and voluntary organisations - adopt the most successful and efficient practices:
- Identify types of groups most likely to be impacted by your activities. Look for those that use similar resources; operate within the same industry; work in a close proximity; use your suppliers or deliverers, or interact with the same consummer base.
- Contact your local CVS for details of local groups or consult with national organisations for further input into the environmental policy and your activities. Utilise existing schemes that are appropriate for your business.
- If necessary, draw up agreements with the selected beneficiaries. This consolidates the partnership working and clarifies the mutual support that you are able to offer.
Impact
Further benefits may be less tangible initially - but crucial to your business' long term success.
- Increased customer base
- Good PR for future marketing
- Raised profile within the local community
- Satisfaction for all stakeholders (and employees in particular), knowing that they are 'doing their bit'
Voluntary Sector Links
