Charity and Commerce Collide

The intersection of commerce and charity is no new advent.  However, I have always found it to awe inspiring how the might of the democratic and capitalist free market can churn with great efficiency to respond to human need.  This past couple of weeks has certainly met with no exception as businesses have attempted to respond to the crissi in Haiti.  

Local businesses not aside, have responded with great efficiency to provide aid and funding through a number of local and international agencies.  

The Sacramento Press has well documented the growing list of local agencies, participating businesses, and upcoming event to raise money for the ongoing relief efforts.  

Several years ago I had the pleasure of participating in a Katriana relief effort, leading a team to provide roofs for victims around the Biloxi, Mississippi area.  I still remember, beyond the generaosity of the organixations and individuals that funded the trip, companies like Enterprise Rent-a-Car provided huge discounts for the vehicles we needed.  

Check out the list of local participants.  If you can not provide direct support, consider how your patronage to participating businesses might help in a small way to provide support to those who need it.

Also see www.hopeforhaitinow.org.  

Have any stories of local businesses providing for charitable causes?  Share a story.