In a recent conversation with Brent Leary and Paul Greenberg, I was asked “Why Montana?” I get this question a lot; Bozeman is not a typical location for a global business. I answered honestly, talking about the outdoors, hunting, fishing, hiking and camping. But, I forgot one important thing, the people in this state.
Last week, along with 200 RightNow employees, I volunteered at the Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games. I was overwhelmed not only by these athletes but also by the legions of dedicated volunteers from communities around the state. They give selflessly.
Community giving is not only suggested at RightNow, it is celebrated. We encourage each employee to spend at least 40 hours a year participating in a charity or community project – on company time. We also match their financial gifts to community based non-profits and churches. We have been doing this nearly since inception of our business 11 years ago. With success comes responsibility and we encourage everyone here to take that responsibility very seriously.
I congratulate the 1,000+ Special Olympic Athletes from across Montana that competed last week in Bozeman, the coaches that encourage them and the family, friends and volunteers that cheered them on and let their voices be heard.
Funny how you get more by giving.
Greg, since reading ‘Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance’ I have wanted to visit/possible live in Bozeman Montana. I love the climate there, living in Arizona you tend to develop an incredible appreciation for the cold!
Reading this post reminds me, at an especially tough time for people in all industries, what is great about our country. That is companies like yours delivering on the premise of corporations making a significant positive impact on the community. I salute you and every businessman like you on making this country a great one to live and work in by promoting community giving within the organization!
I love to volunteer myself and one of the challenges in the past was working it into my hectic corporate lifestyle. While I was working in Silicon Valley there were many companies ‘talking the talk’, but few actually ‘walking…’ as RightNow does. This post was an inspiration, I THANK YOU.
Hani, Thank you for the comment. I agree, the legions of individuals and organizations that give back to their communities is one of the many things that makes this country great.
Greg, thank you for highlighting an area of life balance that often is pushed down the priority list, sometimes even completely disregard. Your blog in January entitled Change Creates Opportunity not only applies to business enterprises, but also to individuals.
I am among many in my community that have experienced an exceptional downturn in business. While responding to these challenges in new and more creative ways is a daily process, new doors have been opened to gently remind me that my personal life and the needs of those around me are vitally important as well.
Years ago I was trained as a volunteer mediator. Over the past 12 “successful” years, I have not volunteered to mediate. Now that I have more time, I have re-engaged in volunteer mediation and am finding overwhelming joy in helping others find solutions to their problems.
Often, when we are finding success in our occupational endeavors, our communities suffer because those of us that have talents to offer overlook the needs of the community. This massive change in our world has been a true blessing for me and others I know, despite the significant challenges we face economically. Do I love my work? I thoroughly enjoy many aspects of it. Do I love being involved in helping others live a better life. Without a doubt.
There must be room to help others, even when we are fully challenged ourselves. That’s what communities are about.
I wish great success for RightNow, both financially and as a resource to improve the lives of those you touch in the communities in which you operate.
Greg,
I believe you will find joy in reading, “Life Without Principles,” written by Henry David Thoreau in the mid 1800’s.
EnJoy,
Pam