While anyone can certainly participate in community service, and every contribution is important, I believe businesses can and should make a larger impact than single individuals.

Having a vested interest after beating leukemia, I choose to focus my philanthropy on cancer research. Throughout my career, I have assisted in raising more than $100 million for cancer research personally and through a percentage of the proceeds from my company.

I took what essentially was a death sentence and harnessed it into my superpower. With a successful business and a great deal to be thankful for, I utilize every opportunity to share the importance of empowering oneself through giving back to your community. My philosophy in philanthropy is one of cyclical momentum: Growing to give. Giving to grow.

Businesses are a part of the communities where they reside. They are sponsors of little league teams, supporters of local organizations, and contributors to national and even international causes. Such participation can impact anything from cutting-edge research to community projects or even neighborhood initiatives. All these actions, big and small, move the needle in a positive direction. It’s never just a simple donation. Businesses that engage in philanthropic pursuits can reap near- and long-term benefits that can often be tangible.

Here are four key benefits a business will reap when giving back:

  1. Network Expansion
  2. Empowering Employees
  3. Business Reputation
  4. Good Marketing

Read the full article about businesses giving back by Dave Cantin at Forbes.