By Bill Bodine, e-Management

Note: The following blog article is not an e-Management endorsement for any charitable organization; but rather an example of how one specific e-Management employee is giving back to his community. We also invite you to check out other organizations that our employees support by clicking here.

There are so many ways to give: (1) to your chosen church or nonprofit organization; (2) by monetary donation; or (3) by volunteering your time. I found a unique way of giving about a year and a half ago – the Frederick Giving Project (FGP).

The is “a group of extraordinary people looking to improve their community, inspire more giving, and nurture the next generation of community leaders and philanthropists.” And boy, they do all of those and more! I am honored to have become a member of the leadership team early on as a member of the grants committee. In fact, Comcast TV recently interviewed me about FGP and all the great things they do. You can view that interview .

Collective Philanthropy
FGP is a fantastic group of people who simply want to improve the Frederick, MD community by collectively giving back. We also want to inspire others to give with us. The idea is that we can make a bigger difference collectively. Not only do we pool funds for local nonprofits, we also volunteer for them. This allows us to not only help the chosen non-profit with achieving their vision, but we get to build meaningful relationships with each other, which further strengthens our community.

Supporting Local Charities
Our pooled charitable contributions and volunteered talents give support to local nonprofits. We plan and participate in group service projects, we network, and we socialize at all kinds of events, from happy hours to house parties – all while raising awareness for numerous issues that affect thousands of lives.

Our fundraising events help raise money outside of membership fees to cover operating expenses so that 100% of our membership fees go to a chosen local non-profit. Each year, we accept applications from nonprofits, vote, and make a combined grant to a local Frederick County nonprofit and the people they serve.

FGP – Having Its Cake and Giving It Too
Last year, we made our first grant award. FGP was able to raise more than $8,000 and give that as a grant to Cakes for Cause. This organization helps young people in the child welfare system transition successfully into adulthood by teaching them the skills to work in the restaurant industry. Moxie Bakery & Cafe in downtown Frederick provides revenue for the nonprofit and a training ground for the young people. Don’t try the cookies – you’ll be hooked!

The Big Payback
Giving in this way has been very rewarding for me as an individual, knowing that my contribution is combined with others to make a larger difference. As Aristotle once wrote, “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.” I encourage you all to look for ways to be a giver in your local community. If you live in Frederick County, please check out the FGP!

Giving is Fundamental
I’ve gone on and on about FGP. Feel free to list other charitable organizations that may need support. More than 4,000 people read this blog every month. Let’s give them some ideas about charitable giving. So, we want to hear from you. How do you give back to your community? What are your favorite charities? How does your company or agency support nonprofits and community outreach groups?