While most people are familiar with the concept of nonprofits, many may not know that National Nonprofit Day is commemorated each year on August 17th in remembrance of when the Tariff Act provided tax exempt status for charitable organizations on 8/17/1894. With the intention of encouraging charitable endeavors, the act started an explosion of such organizations that totals over 1.5 million today. A significant contributor to economic activity in America, nonprofits also spend $1 trillion annually on goods and services and help employ around 12.3 million people in the country.
Since our founding in 2015, RAWZ’s goal has been to use 100 percent of the profits* from our minimally processed pet nutrition products to support the work of amazing nonprofit partners who improve the lives of those living with disability. Many times, understandably I suppose, when appearing at one of our trusted retail partner’s establishments, I’m asked, “So, you guys are a nonprofit?” In fact, I’ve even had people offer me a donation or say, “Well, I don’t actually have any pets, but let me give you a few bucks.”
To this I reply, “We don’t actually take donations, but if you see our website’s RAWZ Fund page, there are links to the 13 non-profit partners that we support and you are welcome to donate or spread the word about their amazing charitable efforts!” At RAWZ, we know that our core competency lies in bringing minimally processed nutrition to pets, while also being blessed with the opportunity to support the phenomenal work done by RAWZ Fund partners.
This spotlight on nonprofits probably has many wondering what they can do to help, particularly if a financial contribution isn’t feasible. Fortunately, a monetary donation to a nonprofit whose work appeals to you isn’t the only way to help. Any of the following acts can make a positive impact on the ability of nonprofits’ work to improve lives:
- Volunteer your time
- Promote, Promote, Promote! Whether it’s through word of mouth or on digital platforms, anyone can help raise awareness of nonprofits that are near and dear to their hearts
- Get yourself, your friends and family involved with the nonprofit community and lend a helping hand
Whether by volunteering, championing a nonprofit, contributing financial support, or even visiting a trusted RAWZ retail partner and feeding minimally processed nutrition, we all can make a difference. Allow the 17th of August to remind us to look around and see the steps, both large and small, we can take to improve the lives of those around us!
*Less taxes & reserves.
