United Way’s 365 Circle impacts local businesses

The United Way of Putnam County’s 365 Small Business Circle is an opportunity for local businesses to engage in community impact work in Putnam County.

New for 2020, this leadership circle is designed for small businesses and is gaining traction with a growing number of members.

A focus on strategic impact investments, as well as a dollar-for-dollar matching grant, are two reasons why local businesses are joining.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and with that strength comes a lot of opportunity to tackle some of Putnam County’s challenges,” Director Chris Flegal of United Way of Putnam County said.

“The challenges facing families in our community are not isolated problems, they’re interconnected,” he added. “The United Way invests in comprehensive solutions that improve lives in Putnam County by focusing on the health, education and financial stability of all our neighbors. The 365 Circle is for small business leaders who want to make a difference in a big way.”

The 365 Small Business Circle membership revenue has already raised more than 60 percent of its fundraising goal from its initial pacesetting in the fall. The United Way is now asking additional small businesses to join the effort to improve the lives of those struggling most in Putnam County.

Early childhood education, access to health services, reducing food insecurity and expanding economic mobility programs are some of the impact areas the United Way is focusing on in the county.

Becoming a 365 Small Business Circle member is also a value-add for the business, as research shows consumers are increasingly interested in supporting businesses that are making a difference locally.

“As a local business, we believe it is important to invest our resources back into the community to ensure everyone has the ability to better their lives,” said Damion Wallace, general manager of Bridges Craft Pizza & Wine Bar and TapHouse Burgers. “We hope other businesses join this network of change-makers.”

Small businesses who are interested in becoming a member can learn more by visiting www.unitedwayofputnamcounty.org/365circle. Three membership levels — each with pledge-payment options — make it accessible to small businesses at any level.

All donations through this membership stay in Putnam County and are matched dollar for dollar, increasing the impact of each participating business. 

United Way thanks the following businesses recognized as 2020 pacesetting members: Bridges Craft Pizza & Wine Bar, TapHouse Burgers, HMSB Insurance, Myers’ Market, Furniture AwareHouse, Hammer & Swigart CPAs, Prime Real Estate, Distinct Web Design, Farmers Insurance - Dan Baidinger, Greenburg Accounting and Monical’s Pizza.

“If you see a 365 Small Business Circle logo on a business’s storefront or website, please show your thanks and support for the good work they are doing in Putnam County,” Flegal added.