Jimmy Lustig | Lustig Family Foundation

Jimmy Lustig is an active philanthropist. He and his wife created the Lustig Family Foundation.

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What Is Skills-Based Volunteering?

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On December 5, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

You’ve probably heard of volunteering, which is when people donate their time to help out a cause or community. But have you heard of skills-based volunteering? It’s a bit different.

Instead of just lending a hand, skills-based volunteering means using your professional know-how to help an organization. Imagine you’re a graphic designer and a local charity needs help creating a new brochure. That’s where your skills come in. You can use your design expertise to create something that looks great and gets your message across.

It’s like taking your day job and using it to make a difference. Maybe you’re a writer, an accountant, a programmer, or a lawyer. Whatever your skill, an organization could probably benefit from it.

Why is it so great?

  • You’re making a real impact: When you use your skills to help, you’re not just doing a small thing but contributing to something bigger. Your expertise can help an organization grow, reach more people, or become more efficient.
  • You’re learning and growing: Volunteering with your skills can help you learn new things and develop your talents. You might meet new people, work on different projects, and even discover a new passion.
  • It’s good for your career: Many companies value employees who give back to the community. Skills-based volunteering can help you build your resume, network with other professionals, and boost your job satisfaction.
  • It’s fulfilling: A special feeling comes from using your abilities to help others. Knowing that you’ve made a difference can be incredibly rewarding.

How to get started

If you’re interested in skills-based volunteering, there are a few ways to get started:

  • Look for local organizations: Many non-profits and charities seek volunteers with specific skills. Check out organizations in your community and see if they have any needs that match your expertise.
  • Online platforms: Websites like VolunteerMatch and Idealist can help you find volunteer opportunities based on your skills and interests.
  • Corporate programs: Many companies offer employee volunteer programs that match employees with organizations.

So, if you’re looking for a way to use your skills to make a difference, consider skills-based volunteering. It’s a fantastic way to give back to your community while growing personally and professionally.

How to Find Local Volunteering Opportunities

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On November 5, 2024

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Volunteering your time is a fantastic way to give back to your community, meet new people, and learn new skills. But finding the right volunteer opportunity can feel overwhelming. With so many options, getting lost in the shuffle is easy. Here’s a simple guide to help you find your perfect volunteer match.

  1. Identify Your Passions

The first step is to figure out what you’re passionate about. Are you interested in helping animals, children, the environment, or anything else? Once you know what causes you care about, narrowing your search will be much easier.

  1. Explore Local Organizations

Many local organizations rely on volunteers to carry out their missions. Start by researching charities, non-profits, and community groups in your area. Check out their websites or social media pages to learn more about their work and volunteer opportunities.

  1. Utilize Online Platforms

Several websites and apps connect volunteers with organizations. Platforms like VolunteerMatch and Idealist can help you find opportunities based on your interests, location, and available time. These platforms often have detailed descriptions of volunteer roles, so you can easily find something that suits you.

  1. Reach Out to Your Network

Remember to underestimate the power of your network. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about volunteer opportunities they know about. They might be aware of hidden gems in your community.

  1. Consider Your Time Commitment

Volunteering comes in all shapes and sizes. Some opportunities require a long-term commitment, while others are one-time events. Consider how much time you can dedicate to volunteering and look for opportunities that fit your schedule.

  1. Start Small

If you’re new to volunteering, it’s okay to start small. You can try out different roles to see what you enjoy. Some organizations offer flexible volunteer positions that allow you to dip your toes in without committing to a long-term role.

  1. Be Prepared for an Interview

Some volunteer organizations may conduct interviews to assess your fit. Be prepared to talk about your skills, experience, and why you want to volunteer. This is also a chance to ask questions about the organization and the volunteer role.

  1. Be Patient

Finding the perfect volunteer opportunity takes time. Keep going if you find something right away. Keep searching and exploring different options; eventually, you’ll find a cause that resonates.

Remember, volunteering is a two-way street. It’s not just about giving back; it’s also about personal growth and fulfillment. By finding a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your passions and values, you can positively impact your community while enriching your own life.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your volunteer journey today!

The Most Common Challenges Philanthropies Face

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On January 19, 2023

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While non-profits work incredibly hard to achieve a world of good, running one can be very challenging. Aside from the usual issues that companies face, such as adapting to new technology, nonprofits face additional challenges specific to their sector.

Challenges for Nonprofits

Many nonprofits rely on government assistance. This aid may be in the form of matching funds or grants, and it can serve as a safety net to cover the gap when the funds are low. The reduction in government funding at the national, state, and municipal levels hurts the operations of nonprofits. Many of them end up with less money than they need.

Income and Budgeting

Getting a steady income from various sources can be challenging for many non-profits. In addition, unpredictable income throughout the year can make budgeting complicated. This is why securing enough money to cover administrative expenses is vital.

Pressure

The emphasis was on how programs were being used and how those receiving support were accessing them. Due to the lack of funds, the pressure has shifted to measure the programs’ success.

The Bottom Line

A project’s cost and social impact must align to deliver actual results. To ensure your mission and goals are recovered, you should equip your people with the necessary tools. These tools will allow them to be more agile and adaptable, allowing you to keep track of your organization’s performance.

Finding and Keeping Talent

When competing against other organizations for talent, many nonprofits need help to attract and retain the right individuals. This is why analyzing the factors influencing the selection process is essential.

Most people interested in working for a non-profit organization are passionate about their work and are committed to the causes they serve. However, the lack of resources can prevent many organizations from attracting and retaining top talent.

The first step in addressing this issue is to fight the fear. Nonprofits must convince themselves that they should be bold and invest in their people and mission.

If you can’t attract and retain the best talent, you must believe in the people already working for you. They will only be able to flourish if they have an engaged work environment that allows them to focus on their passion.

Increasing Need

The increasing number of people who are experiencing economic hardships has led to an increase in the need for services by various non-profit organizations. In addition, the reduction in arts programs in schools has put a strain on the operations of many organizations.

Most people who work for non-profit organizations tend to wear many hats. Since being a generalist can mean that no one in the organization has the necessary knowledge about finance and business analysis, you must find the right tools that will allow everyone to make informed decisions.

While there are many obvious challenges that a non-profit organization must face, there are also many hidden threats that can affect its operations. Knowing these issues can help you avoid potential problems and achieve your mission.

Jimmy Lustig Unique Corporate Philanthropy Models

Unique Corporate Philanthropy Models

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On October 28, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

According to a survey, over 60% of consumers are likely to buy from companies that support social issues. This is a huge reason why many companies are now developing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. Aside from being beneficial to the consumers, CSR can also help companies attract and retain top talent. It can also improve brand equity and encourage employees to work harder.

 

We’ve collected inspiring examples of corporate philanthropy that can help you build a strong foundation for your initiative. These examples use different tactics to engage their employees and increase the impact of their generosity.

 

Rise Against Hunger by Kraft Heinz

In 2011, Kraft Heinz launched a campaign known as Huddle to Fight Hunger, which involved donating a meal’s worth of money to local food banks for every Facebook “like” that person had made. This effort was also used to boost brand awareness.

 

The partnership between the two organizations grew into a permanent one. For the last three years, the two companies have held an annual event involving packaging thousands of meals. This year, Kraft Heinz provided $2.5 million to help fund the event.

 

Through their charitable campaigns, Kraft Heinz created effective marketing and fundraising strategies. They also used non-cash volunteering activities and donations to positively impact their local communities.

 

Volunteer Grant Program by Microsoft

One of the most prominent companies in the world regarding corporate responsibility is Microsoft. Through its volunteer grant program, the company could provide financial assistance to a different charity for each hour of work that its employees volunteered. Microsoft employees logged over 3 million hours of volunteer work each year.

 

The company’s volunteer grant program is also successful because it encourages employees to get involved in philanthropy and provides them with rewards. It also allows them to select their charity for donations. This method increases the levels of engagement and helps boost the company’s buy-in.

 

One of the essential factors you can consider when implementing a corporate philanthropy program is the inclusion of employee choice. This method allows employees to impact the causes they care about positively.

 

Student Loan Reductions by Penguin Random House

One of the most effective ways companies can implement corporate philanthropy is by providing financial assistance to their employees to pay off their student loans. The company could help its employees reduce their student loan payments by $1,200 annually through this method. This method can have a significant impact on the financial situation of their employees and can help boost the company’s retention rate. As the outstanding national debt of colleges and universities has reached over $1.5 trillion, this method can strongly incentivize employees to participate.

Jimmy Lustig Researching Nonprofits to Support

Researching Nonprofits to Support

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On September 29, 2022

In Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

This guide aims to help you answer that question and make an informed decision when it comes to investing in a nonprofit. We’ll guide you through the various due diligence steps to help you make an informed decision. In addition to learning about the organization’s operations and leadership, we’ll also help you gather information to help you make an informed decision.

 

Although you may think you don’t need to ask every question before making a grant, this guide will give you a summary of the various factors that affect your decisions and the steps you should take to make an informed decision.

 

Essential Functions and Track Record

A nonprofit’s strategy will tell you who it is and what it aims to accomplish. A broad mission may be inspiring, but a strategy focusing on achievable goals will reveal if the organization’s leaders are eager to make tradeoffs. Through your research, you’ll learn how nonprofits work with other organizations to accomplish their goals. This will help you develop a strategy that fits into the organization’s work. You’ll also be able to identify the program design that fits into the charitable strategy of the organization.

 

You’ll also be able to learn about the effectiveness of a nonprofit’s program by analyzing its results. This will help you determine if the organization is focused on improving its outcomes and if it’s using the collected data to improve the program.

 

Effectiveness of Leadership

The leadership of a nonprofit is significant to its success. Through your research, you’ll be able to learn about the organization’s management team and how they can effectively guide it. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the group’s strengths and weaknesses. You’ll also learn about the factors critical to an organization’s long-term success. These include the availability of a suitable replacement for the key people, the effectiveness of the board, and the alignment of the leadership team with the organization’s goals.

 

Financial Responsibility

Understanding the financial situation of a nonprofit will allow you to make informed decisions regarding the resources you’ll use to support the organization’s programs and services. One of the most critical factors you’ll want to consider is its financial sustainability. This is a complex issue that requires a lot of research and analysis to determine. Ideally, a mature organization should have a stable funding mix that doesn’t rely on a small number of donors. It should also have a robust financial reporting system and adequate cash.

 

Organizational Structure

Knowing more about a nonprofit’s operations and structure will allow you to see how it can deliver its goals. This will help you determine if the organization is focused on improving its results and if it’s using the collected data to improve the program. If you’re planning on supporting a nonprofit, you must know that it can grow while also achieving high-quality results. For instance, if the organization has multiple sites it’s planning on operating, how confident are you that it can continue delivering effective programs and services?

Jimmy Lustig How to Increase Engagement on Social Media as a Nonprofit

How to Increase Engagement on Social Media as a Nonprofit

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On August 15, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

 

Most nonprofits have Facebook pages mainly used to communicate with their supporters. They also use it to create events and respond to questions. However, this level of engagement is not an effective way to get people to become advocates. Even if you have thousands of followers on Facebook, none of them will ever act as advocates or donate to the organization if they never see your posts.

 

Social media is a powerful tool for organizations to reach out to their communities and build support for their cause. The latest research shows that over three billion people use social media globally. Use these steps to get started and get others to help you improve the world.

 

Know Your Audience

Like in real life, people are not always going to be friends on social media. However, connecting with like-minded individuals is very important for mental health. Before using social media, you must identify the people most likely to support your mission. This will include the individuals involved in the organization’s operations, such as volunteers and staff members. You can also create a list of characteristics that your potential supporters share.

 

Choose the Right Platform

It can be hard to keep up with all the details about social media platforms, especially if you’re a small business or a nonprofit. However, it’s important to remember the differences between different platforms and that choosing the right one for your organization is essential. Having the right media mix can help boost your marketing efforts’ effectiveness and attract more potential supporters. It’s important to remember that different platforms have their capabilities and uses. For instance, LinkedIn and Twitter have unique abilities and can reach different audiences.

 

Create a Consistent Brand Voice

After you have identified the ideal platform, it’s time to start creating content for your social media platforms. Before you start working on your content, take a minute to think about the various pages that you like on Instagram or Facebook and why you like seeing their content. Social media lets you share your organization’s perspective and connect with your target audiences. Some organizations have charismatic leaders who can be featured on platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter. Others use content generated by their followers or feature their clients. Whatever you choose, create something your audience will like and return for more.

 

As you build and refine your strategy, remember that it’s a process that will eventually change. Having a well-defined and consistent approach will allow you to reach out to more potential supporters and increase the engagement of your social media efforts.

Jimmy Lustig How to Make Your Business More Sustainable

How to Make Your Business More Sustainable

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On July 21, 2022

In James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

In 2022, running a business will be hard. Climate change is one of the most significant issues enterprises face today, and it is becoming increasingly clear that everyone has a role to play in addressing this issue. It is no longer a secret that we all are responsible for reducing our emissions and saving the planet from environmental disasters. There are many simple steps that you can take to make your company more sustainable.

Most businesses have taken the necessary steps to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. However, setting realistic goals and implementing effective strategies can be challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises. This guide aims to help you navigate the various steps in setting green targets.

Use Eco-Friendly Packaging

According to the EPA, packaging accounts for over 23% of the materials that end up in landfills in the US. You can help reduce your company’s pollution contribution by implementing eco-friendly packaging techniques.

One of the most effective ways to reduce your company’s packaging waste is using biodegradable containers. Instead of using single-use containers, use containers made from various materials such as seaweed, wood pulp, and corn starch. Also, avoid using a mishmash of materials. For instance, if your packaging has multiple types of polymers, it can potentially be unrecyclable.

Good packaging can make a product more likely to be reused or recycled. Having well-designed and applicable packaging can also help keep your products attractive and from going to waste. For instance, if you have a logo on a drawstring bag, your customers might use it for other products.

Set Goals to Strive Toward

Setting goals is also essential when it comes to setting green targets. Although it might seem like an obvious step, it’s additionally vital to consider the various factors that affect the environment. One of these is climate change research. Follow the latest scientific studies and make the right decisions for your company and the planet.

Although going green for the environment is essential, other benefits can also be realized by becoming more sustainable. Being able to become more responsible for your company’s background can help boost its reputation and attract more potential customers.

Contrary to popular belief, going green can help your company’s growth. In many cases, it can lead to new and innovative products and services that will help your target market become more accepting of your values.

Although it might seem costly, going green can help your company’s bottom line. Not only can it save you money, but it can also help the environment by reducing the amount of energy your company uses. Other ways to go green include implementing energy-efficient lighting and buying local.

Reduce Energy Use

Before you start implementing a plan to go green, you must have a good understanding of your company’s energy consumption. Having a smart meter can help you monitor your company’s overall energy usage and identify areas where changes can be made. Having an up-to-date energy performance certificate (EPC) is also essential to ensure that your company’s buildings are energy efficient. This will allow you to identify areas where improvements can be made.

One of the most significant energy-consuming components of an office building is its lighting. Aside from using natural light, it’s also essential to consider the various factors that affect the building’s energy usage. One of the most significant changes that can be made is to replace the older, inefficient lighting with more energy-efficient models.

Go Paperless

In the US, office workers use over 12 trillion sheets of paper annually. Not only does this amount to a lot of trees, but it also costs a lot of money.

Try implementing online billing and paperwork to cut down on paper waste and increase your physical storage space. Not only will it help reduce your paper usage, but it can also help you save money on your bills. One of the easiest ways to implement this practice is by sending email receipts to customers.

Although a 100% paperless office is a noble endeavor, it can sometimes be impractical. Even if you can still use a piece of paper, make sure you purchase sustainably sourced paper. Not only will it help reduce your paper usage, but it can also help you save money on your bills.

Jimmy Lustig How to Get Employees Excited About Volunteering

How to Get Employees Excited About Volunteering

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On May 24, 2022

In Blog, James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

Being a good citizen is the right thing to do, and volunteering can help companies thrive. It can also help organizations develop and grow. Aside from being beneficial to the individuals who participate, community service also benefits the organizations that it supports.

It’s important for team leaders and managers to understand the various benefits of community service. Aside from being beneficial to the individuals who participate, it can also benefit the organizations that it supports. This is why it’s important that they are inspired to give back.

  1. Offer Paid Time for Volunteering

Although it’s not always possible for everyone to volunteer off the clock, volunteering can still be a great way to show your commitment to the community. Having paid time off for volunteering can be a great way to demonstrate your love for the community.

According to a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resources Management, over 20 percent of companies offered paid time off to their employees for volunteering. A total of 82 percent of companies that were included in the 2014 Civic 50 also offered paid time off to their employees.

  1. Share Opportunities

Doing the work for the team members instead of asking them to research volunteer opportunities can help them find ways to give back. You can also create a weekly email digest that provides a list of volunteer opportunities that the team can explore.

List out volunteer opportunities that are focused on different skill sets such as teaching, tutoring, or painting. You can also start a formal partnership with a local organization to help the team members get involved. Before you start a volunteer program, make sure that the details about the organization and the time commitment are included in the list. This will help your employees determine if they are the right fit for their lifestyle.

  1. Create Leadership Opportunities

Being able to take on more responsibility can help employees develop their skills and improve their performance. It can also help them feel valued and supported at work.

Although it’s important to have a volunteer coordinator, it’s also important to identify the individuals who can be given leadership roles. You can also start by developing a list of skills that your team members can use to improve their performance. Consider your team’s skills and interests and how they might be utilized in a volunteer setting.

  1. Encourage Office Leaders to Be Examples

Seeing leaders commit to volunteering can help team members feel more positive about their participation. It can also help them feel supported and valued at work. To make sure that the team members are comfortable with the idea of giving back, encourage team leaders to regularly talk about the company’s social responsibility initiatives.

  1. Reward Volunteers

Make sure that your team members are not only recognized for their hard work but that they’re also encouraged to get involved. Having a reward system can help make volunteering more of a part of the company culture.

One of the most important factors that you can consider when it comes to rewarding team members is their commitment to the community. Doing so can help demonstrate the company’s commitment to social responsibility. In 2014, 50 percent of companies featured in the Civic 50 list of Points of Light included community engagement work in their performance reviews.

 

Jimmy Lustig How to Give Back Without Giving Money

How to Give Back Without Giving Money

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On April 22, 2022

In Blog, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While it’s important to give back to the community, it doesn’t have to be a big cash donation. There are a variety of ways to support local nonprofits and charities. Doing so can help them reach their goals and provide them with the resources they need.

  1. Donate Blood

You can help save three lives each time you donate blood if you’re healthy and weigh 110 pounds or more. It can be done six times a year. To schedule an appointment, contact your local blood center.

  1. Volunteer Time

Getting involved with a local charity or nonprofit organization can be a great way to support them when you can’t offer up cash. Many of them rely on volunteers to help with various tasks, such as collecting donations and organizing events. To find out more about volunteering, contact the charity you’re interested in supporting.

  1. Save Unneeded Materials

Sometimes, donating used items can help a local charity. For instance, a local thrift store uses donated plastic bags instead of purchasing their own to package merchandise. It asks its supporters to bring in their extra plastic bags when dropping off their donations

  1. Share Your Network

If a charity you follow reaches out to you for help, consider if members of your professional or personal network would be able to assist. For instance, if a building repair project needs help, you might have a friend who lives in a nearby town who can help.

  1. Purchase Goods from Charity Shops

Although it’s not always possible to give back to the community with cash, you can still support local charities by shopping at stores that sell goods and services that support them. For instance, many thrift stores are operated by local organizations such as The Salvation Army. These stores sell used goods and services to raise money for various charitable causes.

  1. Donate Old Items

If you have too many clothes, books, or other items that are no longer useful, consider donating them to a charity or giving them to someone who needs them. Doing so will allow you to claim a charitable donation on your tax return, and the charity can benefit by either reselling them or giving them to people in need.

  1. Raise Money Through Crafts

Making and selling sweet treats or crafts is a simple and effective way to support local charities. You can sell various types of crafts and products, such as pet treats and decorative items, and a portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting the charity. If you’re a skilled knitter, consider donating your creations to a charity that will use them to provide warm clothes and other items to people in need. Likewise, if you’re a skilled cook, consider helping a local soup kitchen by making meals for those in need.

  1. Share Your Skills

You can also help others by volunteering as a board member or mentor for a charity or church. For instance, if you’re a retired business executive, you can help new entrepreneurs by giving advice on how to navigate the marketplace.

 

Alternatives To Donating Money To Charity Jimmy Lustig

Alternatives to Donating Money to Charity

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On July 29, 2021

In James Lustig, Jimmy Lustig, Philanthropy

While donating money to a charity is a great way to give back, it’s not the only thing available to those who want to help their communities. In fact, there are plenty of alternatives to monetary donations: you can volunteer your time, donate items you no longer use or need, and so much more. Here are some ways to do so.

 

Time

 

If you don’t have the money to spare, you can easily donate your time to help a cause that’s important to you instead. Working for a nonprofit organization, for example, is a great way to lend your time and expertise to something you’re passionate about. Not only that, you could potentially make money or qualify for student loan forgiveness through your volunteering.

 

If you do decide to donate your time, however, make sure not to exhaust yourself and take some time for yourself. Pick one or two causes to volunteer for in your area after doing thorough research and stick to them. 

 

Outside of nonprofits, you could also join the Peace Corps or Teach for America to make a difference. These year-long commitments can take you around the world and let you offer your teaching, building, or medical skills to those in need. Just be aware of the issues with “voluntourism” before signing up.

 

Community

 

You don’t have to join an organization to help others. More often than not, you can actually do more good by helping those in your local community rather than traveling across the world. Help your elderly neighbors with their yard work, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and build houses, or even volunteer at your local animal shelter to take care of animals and find them a good home.

 

If there’s a political cause you want to join up with, search for protests happening near you and get involved with it to make your voice heard. If the protest is far away, gather a group of friends or family who want to join you and split the travel costs. Facebook events can connect you to local protests if you’re not up for traveling far. 

 

There are plenty of other ways to give back to your community—all you have to do is some research to figure out how. Connecting with groups on social media can make you aware of events happening around you and get you involved in ways you wouldn’t think possible. Money may be a great donation, but there’s far more that people can offer to make the world a better place.

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