“As home care and hospice organizations plan their 2024 budgets, it’s important to keep charitable giving top of mind,” says Bill Taylor, CPA, Hospice Consultant, Data Aggregator and Founder of DataSharks.

“Supporting a nonprofit organization with a like mission can be a win-win for both companies, especially those with established foundations, and the communities they serve,” Taylor says. “Being generous with money, time and talent can put a company in a stronger position to not only enhance the services and care they provide, but to attract more referrals, strategic partners, engaged employees and loyal vendors, as well. All of which can positively impact an organization’s bottom line.”

“Charitable giving is not only a good thing to do, but it also makes good business sense,” adds Peter Stinson, Executive Director of the Bucks County-based Twilight Wish Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that fulfills wishes for needy seniors. “Aside from the main goal of philanthropic efforts – doing good – there are other ways a home care and hospice company can benefit by donating to or partnering with a not-for-profit organization.”

Stinson says that among them:

1. Stand out in a crowded market –With scores of home care and hospice providers in any given market, a partnership with a nonprofit organization can set a company apart from competitors by demonstrating a commitment to giving back. Philanthropy is one of the most cost-effective ways for a company to improve its competitive edge.
2. Enhance quality – Organizations that demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond for their patients or customers often score better on quality and satisfaction surveys.
3. Boosts image –Studies show today’s consumers are philanthropic-minded and are more likely to choose or be satisfied with an organization if they know the organization is charitable. Partnering with a nonprofit can go a long way in enhancing reputation.
4. FREE marketing – People love to see for-profit businesses being philanthropic. Charitable activities and the inspiring stories that come from them tends to turn the media’s head, garnering priceless buzz and exposure for an organization. And the stories highlighted are likely to be shared many times over with family and friends.

A case in point … Cass Forkin, Founder and Chairwoman of the Board at Twilight Wish Foundation, was recently named a L’Oréal Paris Woman of Worth for her 20+-year commitment to enhancing the lives of deserving seniors by fulfilling unmet needs and making dreams come true. It’s a recognition that will bring a year’s worth of national (and international) attention to the Twilight Wish mission. Learn more about L’Oréal Women of Worth Campaign here .

5. Attract more (and more loyal) customers – Referral sources (consumers, too) are increasingly making decisions based on how they feel about an organization and supporting a nonprofit partner can boost an organization’s reputation. Those positive associations often result in new revenue generated from loyal, repeat referrers – who also become good sources of great PR.
6. Morale booster. Supporting charities is also an employee morale booster. Employees who are engaged in their organization’s philanthropic efforts tend to be more enthusiastic about their work, giving them a deeper sense of pride in the company they represent.
7. Tax deductions. One of the most immediate benefits of supporting a nonprofit organization is the tax savings.
8. It’s good for the community. Most importantly, philanthropic endeavors help better the community. And the public notices if a company is making a real effort to make a difference.

Money – Well Spent.

“Home care and hospice foundations can contribute to a nonprofit they trust and know those monies will be spent well in the communities they serve,” says Taylor. “It’s a great way to use funds toward your mission without violating regulational constraints.”

Daniel Stephens, Senior Vice President for the CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Partner) Center for Excellence and Member of the Twilight Wish Board of Directors, he’s seen, firsthand, the benefits of partnering with or sponsoring a nonprofit. “When organizations – like Twilight Wish – can help take care or service to the next level, referral sources notice,” he says. “More than simply good will is generated – referrals are, too.”

Kelly Woods, Vice President of Sales for Care Hospice, agrees. “Hospice care is focused on ensuring quality and dignity at the end of life. Partnering with an organization who can help you do that is not only the right thing to do, but it also means reaching (and helping) more people, effectively growing your business.”

Woods adds that whether it’s taking a patient to a baseball game or ensuring a veteran can meet up with a fellow vet, or arranging to drive a beloved corvette, organizations like Twilight Wish who are dedicated to enhancing life and making dreams come true is truly the why behind hospice care.

About Twilight Wish Foundation
Founded in 2003 in Bucks County, Pa., Twilight Wish Foundation is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization that grants wishes to economically disadvantaged seniors over age 65 who cannot make their own dreams come true or are permanent members of a senior living community. Our mission is to honor and enrich the lives of seniors through intergenerational Twilight Wish celebrations. Our vision is to make the world a nicer place to age, one Twilight Wish at a time. For more information, visit TwilightWish.org.