Most of us have heard the expression that it takes a village to raise a child, talking to the power and importance of community, which in turn requires a certain degree of “connectedness”.  This same thought struck me the other day after I attended a sort of “thank you” function for a cause marketing cycling event I participate in every year (Tour For Kids). 

Generally speaking, cause marketing requires a connection to the cause by all the related stakeholders:  event participants (who are fundraisers), donors, sponsors, etc.  But what makes a cause and a cause marketing initiative really powerful is the sense of community it creates between all these stakeholders, and of course the beneficiary of their efforts, the cause itself.  In my mind, this “thank you” event I attended is an important enabler for creating both connection and a sense of community. 

I’ll admit that part of why I enjoy doing the Tour For Kids ride every year is because of the people I see there each year.  The same goes for why I enjoy going to these thank you events.  Both make me feel like I’m part of an important community that is doing good.  In this case, I’m part of a village that is not raising a child, but helping a child living with and beyond cancer.  I feel connected to the cause, and to the community.  There is sheer power in this. 

How do you feel about the causes you’re involved with?  Do you feel a sense of connection, as well as a sense of community?