We asked 20 Las Vegas professionals, "Should companies cut back on their corporate giving due to the economy?"
...........
“Rather than cut back, companies should be strategic with their giving.”
Caroline Ciocca, director of community relations, Cash America/Superpawn
“A recession won’t stop the ability and dedication of those who believe in giving in Las Vegas.”
Elizabeth Trosper, principal, Trosper Communications, LLC
“Corporate giving must be cut back if the alternative is layoffs.”
Phil Aurbach, vice president, Marquis Aurbach Coffing
“No. And if donating money isn’t an option, corporate team members should lend a hand by volunteering.”
Andrea Behrens, executive producer, Homeowner Talk TV
“Giving back to our community is something every company or organization has a responsibility to do. In our profession, service doesn’t stop at the end of our shift.”
Dan Pentkowski, president, Henderson Professional Fire Fighters
“I think now is the perfect time for companies to re-invent their corporate giving programs. Regardless of the economic climate, companies can give of their time, expertise, resources and skills.”
Michelle Loosbrock, PR director, Wagner Junker Agency
“More than ever companies should continue to give during this period of our economy because the need is even greater.”
Nancy L. Anderson, president-elect, CALV
“This is the time that corporations should step up and give more. Giving doesn’t always have to equate to monetary donations. Get creative within your teams and find ways to make a difference in the community.”
Amy Rossetti, director of PR, Cosmopolitan
“This is the time to give. As the economy struggles in Las Vegas, giving of any kind, in any amount, is all the more important.”
Frank Flansburg, attorney, Marquis Aurbach Coffing
“Only if that giving means not being able to cover your current expenses.”
John Cereso attorney/owner, Nevada Law Group
“During economic downturns non-profits are hit just as hard, if not harder, than for-profit companies. If a company can motivate employees to volunteer their time or resources, that giving can help nonprofits.”
Angel Williams, director of community relations and business development, Miracle Mile Shops
“It’s more important now than ever before to give back to our community through financial contributions and volunteer service.”
Don Giancursio, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Nevada
“No, the effort should remain exactly the same. Exceptions are understandable in the event a substantial reduction in revenue impacts the given company’s overall budget, of course.”
Mike Mixer, managing partner, Colliers International
“They should give more. More help is needed and giving boosts morale.”
Chana Gelber, vice president of project management, Renew-all Construction & Repair
“This is the time when businesses should rally together to provide for our community’s needs.”
Tim Crowley, president, Nevada Mining Association
“No. I don’t think companies should cut giving to charities. I think other things should be cut first.”
Josh Hardy, security guard, Spanish Trail
“As a nonprofit, we are extremely appreciative and always in need of individual and corporate contributions. Even in a recession, we need to provide the same quality care to our clients.”
Lea Carrasco-Zanini, executive director, Golden Rainbow
“No. The secret to building new business is corporate giving. There’s no more of a power player in this town than Parry Thomas and how he conducted charity events and got others involved. Corporate people who cut back have to rethink their strategy in my opinion.”
Richard Lee vice president/director of public relations, First American Title Co.
“No, it shouldn’t.”
Cindy Creighton, executive director, Nevada Subcontractors Assn.