Most business owners love giving to charity, in theory at least. But oftentimes businesses are strapped for cash, limited on staff, and short on time. Running a business often takes priority over charitable contributions. Yet many remain committed to giving back, even making it part of their company's core values. Have you ever wondered how supporting a charity can benefit your business? Corporate volunteerism and donations to charity don’t have to be a zero-sum game, and being involved can have a far-reaching positive impact.
There are many great charities in mid-Missouri that can be beneficial to your business and marketing strategy if you choose to support them. The Children’s Miracle Network is one of the best in the state, which is why Zimmer Communications continues to support them every year. Below, we’ll give you some additional tips, tricks, and best practices to conduct cause marketing with charity organizations like the Children’s Miracle Network and reap great rewards for your business.
Why Zimmer Supports the Children’s Miracle Network
Our main reason for holding radiothons to support CMN is to raise money and awareness for sick children at MU Health Care's Children's Hospital. Beyond the fundraising aspect, these events demonstrate our team's commitment to being a valuable asset to the local community.
These partnerships can be incredibly effective. Charities benefit from the increased reach, credibility, and energy that businesses bring to the table. For example, through the combined efforts of Zimmer Communications and our partners, our radiothons raise an average of a quarter of a million dollars each year, making it one of the top radiothons in the country
It’s not just Zimmer making an impact—it’s the incredible people in the local community who truly make these efforts a success. Mid-Missouri and its surrounding areas are filled with people who genuinely care about improving their communities and creating a better place to live. Supporting a local charity doesn’t just provide help where it’s needed—it inspires others to get involved, work together, and create meaningful change. Charitable efforts don’t just help the community; they build community by bringing people together around a shared purpose.
Zimmer’s partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) is a testament to this spirit of collaboration and care. This year marks the 20th annual Miracles for Kids Radiothon, a long-standing partnership through MU Healthcare's Children’s Hospital. Over the past two decades, Zimmer has helped raise more than $4 million to support sick children and their families right here in Mid-Missouri. In fact, last year we had a record-breaking year, raising $456,350 for Children's Miracle Network! Ask anyone in the community, and chances are they’ll have a personal story about how the local Children’s Hospital provided life-changing care when it was needed most. Together, we’re making a lasting difference—one miracle at a time.
Why Zimmer Does CMN Radiothons
Radiothons unite communities by sharing powerful stories and presenting a common challenge. The Zimmer CMN Radiothon is particularly special because every dollar raised stays local. More importantly, CMN-Columbia, MO is one of the nation's top facilities, ensuring no child is ever denied care due to their family's inability to pay. That's a cause worth rallying behind.
Our radiothon has become an annual tradition, driven by the same core message each year: No parent should ever have to hear, “Your baby isn’t going to make it.” This shared purpose brings our employees together like nothing else. Staff from different departments, who might not typically interact, stand shoulder-to-shoulder during the event. They manage phone banks, broadcast live for hours, interview doctors, nurses, and patient families, and inspire their business and personal networks to help reach our fundraising goals. It's the most meaningful team-building experience imaginable.
Why Your Business Should Support a Local Charity
Partnering with a local charity can significantly enhance your brand image. Consumers are increasingly drawn to socially conscious businesses, and this connection fosters stronger ties with the community—especially important for local businesses. Supporting a cause not only builds goodwill but also boosts brand awareness as your business becomes associated with meaningful initiatives.
However, opting out of supporting a local charity means missing a valuable opportunity. It’s an effective way to promote your business subtly, but it’s important to approach it with authenticity. Over-promotion or appearing insincere can backfire, so keep the focus on the cause and its positive impact. Today’s consumers are discerning and appreciate genuine efforts, so be mindful of creating real value through your involvement.
Step up and make a difference! We challenge you to find a cause or charity that aligns with your business or industry. For instance, if you own a restaurant, consider supporting efforts to feed the homeless or improve school lunches. Don't worry if a "perfect" fit isn't immediately obvious; the most crucial step is simply taking action and supporting a cause that benefits your community. However, the closer the alignment to your business, the greater the returns you'll see.
We hope this inspires you to embrace cause marketing, like supporting local charities such as the Children’s Miracle Network. You'll not only create a positive impact but also boost your bottom line.
What are you passionate about? Where can your business make the most difference in your community? As a business owner, your knowledge, skills, experience, and connections are invaluable to these charities. Get out there and make a change – we challenge you!
Discover how your business can join the effort by clicking here or on the image below. We'll connect you with options that are the perfect fit.
