| During bleak economic times, organizations (much like | | | | events, when people of all ages plunge their bathing |
| individuals) are motivated to offer support however | | | | suit clad bodies into icy waters during winter; or |
| they can. Many businesses offer volunteer programs | | | | community festivals or book fairs, when money is |
| when employees enter the community-at-large, | | | | raised for a multitude of charitable causes or to aid |
| providing donations of time and expertise. Mentoring | | | | specific individuals. |
| programs of various stripes are popular, but usually | | | | Sometimes disasters have drawn support from |
| more effective are financial contributions. | | | | businesses large and small, and additional partnering |
| This brand of charitable giving can benefit both | | | | with nonprofits help victims of natural disasters, such |
| provider and recipient. Several prestigious law firms, | | | | as when Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated |
| for instance, bestow large sums of monies derived | | | | primarily Louisiana in 2005. Even overseas or |
| from awarded settlements, in some instances a | | | | international disasters have merited attention and |
| percentage of fees. Legal aid agencies in several | | | | triggered the partnering of altruistic businesses and |
| states have received significant aid from such | | | | nonprofits. A tsunami in 2006 that drowned hundreds |
| sources since the recent prolonged nationwide | | | | of thousands in Asian Pacific regions is a notable |
| recession began in 2007. Without such | | | | example. |
| corporate-sourced contributions, public defenders and | | | | In bleak economic times, consciences and |
| other low-cost legal defense (for poverty-stricken | | | | compulsions to help are often activated closer to |
| persons charged with crimes or facing litigation) may | | | | home. If the current deep recession should free fall |
| be placed in a perilous place. Certain attorneys offer | | | | into a bonafide depression, akin to the Great |
| their services on a pro-bono basis for those unable to | | | | Depression of the 1930s, partnering between |
| pay and yet needing legal assistance. | | | | businesses and nonprofits may become crucial to U.S. |
| Corporations can assist in other ways as well. | | | | communities, even to the extent of maintenance of |
| Businesses of many sizes will sponsor events ranging | | | | essential infrastructure. |
| from foot races to walks; charity "polar bear" | | | | |