The Significance of Corporate Giving to Empower Dreams

At In Flight, Inc, we envision a world where everyone can strive for the best quality of life in a supportive and fulfilling environment. Through our supportive programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we are making strides to see this vision come to life. However, our communities are essential to see this vision become a reality.

As we focus on empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to reach their fullest potential, our community members in Dutchess, Ulster, Columbia, and Greene Counties in New York have been imperative to their growth. By empowering those with I/DD, we as a community are empowering everyone through collaboration and inclusivity. With active participation in our community’s social fabric, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not just recipients of support but integral contributors to the vibrant tapestry of our society. This can be seen through our folk’s volunteerism in our communities and employment at local businesses. This can be grown with more inclusion and more support by our fellow community members.

The Power of Partnership

By partnering with local nonprofits like In Flight, our neighbors with substantial stake in our communities can lead a change for the betterment of the entire society. Not only are these individuals, but these neighbors include businesses and corporations as well as other nonprofits. Through the power of donating resources such as time, goods, and services, sponsoring events and activities, and granting funding towards programs, projects, and general operations, community members can directly be responsible for the growth of their fellow citizens. This mutually beneficial partnership between the nonprofit and its fellow community leaders creates positive change in the shared society.

Impact on Individuals

For In Flight, Inc., corporate contributions of our neighboring small and large businesses have directly impacted the lives of those we support. Corporate giving has allowed us to grow past what Medicaid funding cannot provide. In example, the Ascienzo Family Foundation‘s continuous effort to support our programs has allowed us to add sensory rooms to each of our Day Habilitation locations. Additionally, as pictured below, they have given a voice to the voiceless by providing funding to give those who have limited speech an AAC device to help facilitate communication. Another example of this is the Community Foundation of Greater Capital Region. With their funding, we were able to send our Clinical staff to in-person training to best facilitate our Sexuality and Relationship Course for our folks. These a just a few examples of how direct funding has impacted our programming.

Because of those who have sponsored our key signature event, Cornhole for a Cause, we have raised over $25,000 in unrestricted funds for our programs. Funding such as these has opened the door for us to improve our Residential locations, add more hands-on vocational skill building, and generally improve the quality of life of those we support.

Building a Stronger Community

Not only have sponsorships helped empower the individuals In Flight supports, it has impacted the lives of those with disabilities across the Hudson Valley. Our Holiday Formal is open to all of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, whether in another organization similar to ours or living at home in the community. In 2023, over 500 tickets were purchased to attend this event, causing an additional dance floor to be included in the event space. This amazing night brought joy to so many of our community members all because of sponsorships from Bob’s Furniture, Rhinebeck Bank, Salisbury Bank, and Paraco Gas.

Local businesses and nonprofits have also directly impacted the people we support. Nancy of Petal & Moss, a local flower shop in Red Hook, offered pre-vocational opportunities for our ISAIL participants. The Salvation Army, Red Hook Community Center, and People’s Place in Kingston, NY have also opened their doors to our participants every week to help build their employable skill set such as picking up donations and stocking as well as organizing products. These skills help our individuals grow closer to their goal of having a job. Additionally, these connections help build meaningful relationships with their fellow neighbors and the community at large.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

As important as corporate giving is for the community, it is equally valuable for a company. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a model of business that helps a company by being socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public. Not only can this model help forge a stronger bond and boost morale between employees and employers, it can also aid in connections to the greater community.

Brand Recognition

In this technological era, information is everywhere. This information overload has led to consumers becoming more consciously aware of the brands they are supporting. As per a research study featured in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, consumers tend to respond more positively to a company that has taken actions to benefit its customers, rather than favoring companies solely based on their track record of delivering high-quality products. Furthermore, CRS can increase competitive edge over other business, thus generating increased revenue.

Increased Visibility

In relation to Brand Recognition, a company that participates in CSR increases its visibility in the community. This is through positive additional press driving traffic to the company’s website, and increasing online visibility. Not only can this be seen virtually through social media and both parties’ websites, but it can also include mentions in press releases and other media coverage as well as event signage.

How Businesses Can Get Involved

Make a difference in the lives of those we support while also helping your business. If you have any questions, please contact Jill Rodriquez.

Conclusion

Corporate giving plays a pivotal role in fostering community development and creating a positive impact on society as a whole. In the context of organizations like In Flight, Inc., where the focus is on empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, corporate giving becomes a powerful tool for advancing social causes. The commitment to philanthropy not only contributes to the well-being of the community but also reflects a company’s dedication to its corporate social responsibility. Through strategic giving, corporations can address pressing social issues, support nonprofit organizations, and ultimately contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and thriving society. The symbiotic relationship between corporations and communities underscores the importance of corporate giving in realizing a shared vision of a better and more equitable future for all.