Corporate Philanthropy Partners Inspire COVID-19 Small Business Resource Guide
The Community Foundation’s Corporate Philanthropy Partners (CPP) provide more than support: they help us build a stronger community.
For example, Corporate Philanthropy Partners' input about the impact of caregiving on the workforce motivated us to write the Caregiver Employee Toolkit in 2019. A recent CPP meeting by Zoom began by discussing how each member was coping with the pandemic and quickly transformed into a uniquely motivating conversation. The focus shifted from individuals’ needs to how the group could help our community. Corporate Philanthropy Partner members not only support the Community Foundation, but they also look outward and care about our community even when times are tough for their businesses.
Many suggestions were discussed, but helping small businesses was the one idea floated to the top.
CPP members shared how small businesses are important to a strong community, but many small shops may not have all the resources they need or access to information on business support and reopening guidance. The members were particularly interested in connecting with small businesses that are in low-income areas or might be minority-owned.
Inspired by the meeting, we created the “COVID-19 Small Business Resource Guide.”
Community Foundation staff reviewed existing resource guides and compiled the most important information, distilled into four pages of information. We also contacted the Reno +Sparks Chamber of Commerce, EDAWN, Northern Nevada SCORE, and the Wells Avenue Merchant’s Association to ensure we were not duplicating existing efforts. We learned that there was not only a need for a small business resource guide but also a need for direct outreach. Small business owners juggle many challenges and do not have the time to look up information. Reaching out to help, Community Foundation staff will be meeting with small businesses in person to deliver the resource guide and answer any questions. We are starting our outreach with the Wells Avenue Merchants Association, which has more than 200 small locally owned independent businesses. The idea of connecting small businesses with resources and information about operating during the pandemic originated with the Corporate Philanthropy Partners. We are grateful for their energy and their valuable perspective. Their support helps the Community Foundation work toward creating a stronger community.
Download the Small Business COVID-19 Resource Guide
Download the Small Business COVID-19 Resource Guide in Spanish
Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about the Resource Guide. Nick Tsheekar, Community Engagement Officer 775-333-5499 NTscheekar@nevadafund.org P.S. Are you interested in learning how your business can join the Corporate Philanthropy Partners? Call Jamie Klund, Development Associate 775-333-5499. Connecting people who care with causes that matter.