THE ARC LEADERSHIP

Corporate Partnerships are Win-Win 
by Sherry Wacasey

Mission driven organizations and businesses continue to discover a profitable symbiotic relationship in effective corporate sponsorships which enable both parties to achieve their goals. Our example #1 is Sun Microsystems which helped The Arc of Dallas design and launch this new website.

Such corporate and service organization partnerships are what can really make a difference.

After all, what is more attractive to a business than loyal customers, particularly ones that are hard to reach? What is more attractive to a human service organization than a loyal donor? The answer to both questions is simply, “nothing”. 

Corporate philanthropy happens when a for-profit company gives cash, product, and/or volunteers to assist a charitable organization. The organization, in return, offers the corporation valuable exposure to consumers who are friends of the organization. The net effect is brand loyalty and changed lives. Statistics prove that corporate philanthropy is a sound business practice, not just a donation, and it benefits both parties.

For the past 58 years, The Arc of Dallas has invested in building stronger inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can enjoy quality of life and achieve the highest level of independence. In the current economic climate The Arc, like many non-profits, continually evaluates funding sources and new opportunities for revenue.

Currently, 70% of The Arc’s annual operating budget of 1 million dollars is dependent on program fees and fundraising. Gone are the days of depending on United Way funding 75% – 90% of the agencies operations. The programs most at risk or those that do not have associated program fees and many of those are at the core of The Arc’s history of service to families: advocacy, caregiver supports and community collaborations. Corporate partnerships make all the difference when it comes to helping families in these ways. Those same families become appreciative and loyal customers to the businesses that have recognized their unque challenges – and helped the family not only survive, but prevail.

For more information on corporate patnerships, contact Sherry Wacasey, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Megan Peet, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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Sherry Wacasey
Executive Director, The Arc of Dallas