What is The 2% Club?
It is an informal coalition of senior level business executives and business owners in Denver who have agreed to support and promote charitable giving within their companies and in the community.
What is its purpose?
The mission of The 2% Club is to encourage and increase effective business/corporate giving in the metro Denver community.
What does The 2% Club do?
Each member agrees to donate a minimum of the equivalent of 2% of company profits to their favorite charities. Executives of The 2% Club meet periodically to hear speakers, share ideas on charitable giving and corporate philanthropy, and to network with other leaders who have an interest in philanthropy.
What are the benefits of joining The 2% Club?
First and foremost, it is a networking opportunity. It puts you in touch with like-minded companies who also believe in giving back. There are also occasional opportunities for training for your staff and a chance to meet nonprofit leaders. Some visibility for your efforts are available through our web site and occasionally other media. We are always willing to help you think about effective strategies for community involvement for your business.
What types of charitable giving are included in the 2% figure?
All aspects of community involvement and corporate philanthropy can make up the 2% requirement, including cash donations, employee volunteer time, company volunteer projects, in-kind good and services, cause-related marketing, pro bono assistance and other societal efforts.
What charitable causes qualify for the 2% Club?
All nonprofit groups would be considered charitable. Each company chooses which nonprofit organizations best fit their philanthropic interests.
Does all of our giving have to be in Denver?
While The 2% Club efforts are primarily focused in Denver, you may include other geographical donations as part of your overall 2% giving if necessary.
Who keeps track of our 2% Club giving?
The commitment is on the honor system, and there is no audit or evaluation of how much has been given or to which organizations.
What if my company is not able to give 2% this year?
We encourage and expect all members to donate 2%, but understand at times this is not possible. We would encourage you to consider employee volunteerism, in-kind and pro bono assistance to make up the 2% figure.
Can we include cause-related marketing or other types of business giving?
Yes. We believe that charitable giving is a smart business strategy and encourage all types of charitable support to increase giving in the community from all sectors.
Is our company obligated to give an additional 2% of what we already give in the community?
No, The 2% Club does not expect members to give an additional 2%, but 2% is the minimum annual donation.
My business is very small. Can I still join?
Absolutely. We have a variety of businesses, both in terms of size and industry representation. There is no minimum contribution amount.
Am I expected to recruit more members if I join?
We hope that you will encourage others to join, but it is not a requirement. The idea is to get as many businesses as possible to support the community. The more companies that set an example of conscientious charitable giving, the better the nonprofit community will be served, resulting in a better quality of life for everyone.
How much does it cost to join?
There are no annual dues, just a one-time registration fee of $200 to join.
What companies belong now?
The 2% Club has a growing membership of over 150 businesses, from sole-proprietors to the largest employers.
How do I join?
Just click on the tab on the home page and fill out the form. An invoice will be sent to you.
Can I pay on-line?
Although you cannot pay your dues on-line, you may fill out the registration form and we will invoice you for the $200 one-time payment.
How can I be invited to the 2% Club meetings?
Most meetings are for members only, but occasionally we allow business guests or nonprofit representatives. Please contact us to be added to the email invitation list.
Can I apply for a grant from The 2% Club?
No, The 2% Club itself is not a grantmaking entity.
What is the relationship between the Adolph Coors Foundation and The 2% Club?
Bill Coors was a founding member of The 2% Club. The Adolph Coors Foundation has agreed to be the sponsoring organization, donating staff time and office expenses.
Does the 2% Club have any paid staff?
No, it is an all-volunteer organization.
Do you have a board of directors?
Yes, the board of The 2% Club consists of business executives in the Denver community with a commitment to corporate philanthropy.
How do I get a list of members?
The list of members is included on this web site, or you may contact us.
How can I get the addresses of the members?
We respect the confidentiality of our members and do not release their addresses, in order to prevent unsolicited bulk direct mail. Our hope is that nonprofits will research each company's philanthropic goals and strategies, and determine which businesses are the best fit for a possible partnership, grant or in-kind donation.
What if I have more questions?
Please feel free to let us know your questions and we will be happy to answer them. sallyrippey@gmail.com
