The holiday season is a time of giving and spreading joy, and what better way for businesses to embrace the spirit of generosity than by hosting an Angel Tree or a Giving Tree? These initiatives benefit those in need and foster a sense of community and goodwill.
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What Does It Mean to Host an Angel Tree?
Hosting an Angel Tree involves setting up a Christmas tree adorned with donation options or wish lists from charities to support those in need during the holiday season. Whether it's partnering with the Salvation Army or other local charity programs, or even creating virtual giving trees, the goal remains the same: encouraging giving back to the community.
Have You Ever Wondered Where the Initial Concept Came From?
The idea for Angel Trees is attributed to a Salvation Army program created in 1979 to collect clothing and toys for kids at a Lynchburg, Virginia, shopping mall. Wish lists were collected from kids and hung on a Christmas Tree in the mall. More than 700 kids provided wish lists on Hallmark greeting cards shaped like angels, which were then hung on a Christmas Tree, resulting in the program's name. The idea rapidly spread when the family who started it moved to Nashville, TN, where it was featured on Opryland radio.
Why is Hosting an Angel Tree a Socially Responsible Action?
Hosting an Angel Tree is socially responsible, as it fosters a spirit of generosity and compassion within the community. By providing opportunities for individuals to contribute to those less fortunate, it promotes empathy and solidarity, addresses social disparities, and spreads joy during the holiday season.
How Can Hosting an Angel Tree Help Your Business?
Increase Brand Awareness:
- By organizing charitable initiatives like hosting an Angel Tree, your business can enhance its reputation as a socially conscious entity, distinguishing itself from competitors.
- Participation in such events increases visibility within the community, attracting potential customers who value businesses with a strong sense of social responsibility.
Improve Employee Relationships:
- Involving employees in planning and executing these charitable activities fosters a sense of belonging and pride in their workplace.
- Engaged employees are likelier to exhibit loyalty and dedication, contributing positively to the work environment.
Improve Customer Relationships:
- Hosting an Angel Tree provides a unique opportunity to engage with customers on a deeper level and show your commitment to making a difference in the community.
- Customers appreciate businesses prioritizing social responsibility, strengthening their loyalty and connection to your brand.
Attract Foot Traffic to Your Location:
- Hosting an Angel Tree in your location can draw customers interested in participating in charitable activities. This not only increases your business's visibility but also provides an opportunity for customers to explore your products or services while they visit.
How Can You Get Started?
To initiate your host an Angel Tree initiative, follow these steps:
- Plan the Event: Invite interested employees to help organize the event, ensuring everyone feels involved and valued.
- Spread the Word: Encourage employees to share the fundraiser with friends and family, expanding its reach and impact.
- Engage Customers: Extend invitations to customers, inviting them to participate and contribute to the cause, thereby strengthening customer relationships.
Don't just “do” an action. Make that action effective. Learn more about what it means to be effective in our related blog post.
Interested in Learning More?
Articles about the action:
- History of the Salvation Army Angel Tree (tsamm.org)
- Angel Tree Charity Program Guide (charity.lovetoknow.com)
Ideas for getting started:
