Giving Back is More Than Just Writing a Check

RCS influencer Michelle Boykin says that sharing what you and your company are passionate about can inspire others to become involved in a cause.

Giving back to the community is important, both as an individual and as a company.  It is a way to share your “why” with others and is also a way to show that you care about something other than your bottom line.  But how do you show how you are giving back without looking like you are doing it for the wrong reasons? 

First, you need to fully understand your why. If you are not passionate about something, don’t give to that cause.  It is ok to say no, because someone else who is truly passionate about it will say yes.   Our focus at Rackley is to “Transform the Industry,” and each individual in our company takes this on in different forms.  For instance, my passion is to empower women in fields that are typically male dominated. 

Second, you must jump in headfirst.  Don’t just write a check or sign your name to something and then walk away.  Really get involved.  For instance, Rackley is a Founding Sponsor of NWiR (National Women in Roofing), which of course fits into my personal passion and Rackley’s passion as well.  But we didn’t just write a check. We continue to be a Platinum Sponsor each year, we attend local council meetings, we share what NWIR is doing on social media, and I serve on the Executive Committee. 

We look for opportunities to empower women in other areas as well.  For instance, we recently sponsored a female race car driver, Brittney Zamora, in, much like roofing, the male-dominated industry of racing.  One of our Rackley team members, Memory Bagsby, serves on the board of NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) Nashville.  Another team member, Casey Mynatt, serves on the board of BOMA (Business Owners and Managers Association) Knoxville.  It should be clear to anyone outside our organization that we care about the advancement of women in the roofing industry.  Whatever your passion is should also be clear to others outside your organization.

Third, don’t be afraid to share what you are doing!  We are constantly posting on social media when we are involved in an event or a sponsorship.  Share information from the organization(s) you are supporting.  If you are doing a special event or something that the community may rally behind, contact your local news stations and let them know.  Everyone loves seeing the “good” stories on the news.  Tell your friends and colleagues.  You never know who may have the same passion as you, and this may spark them to give toward the same cause. 

Most importantly, have fun! If you enjoy giving back and supporting a cause, your passion will be contagious, and others will want to follow suit. 

Michelle Boykin is the COO and Integrator of Rackley Roofing Company, Inc. See her full bio here