Fatheadz Owner Rico Elmore has made corporate giving a part of his business, but it's always been personal. Here's his story.Fatheadz Owner Rico Elmore is passionate about philanthropy. He learned the value of helping others as a child, from parents who knew how much a difference individuals can make in other people's lives."I grew up in a very loving and caring home, where giving to others was just part of the way we lived," says Rico. "For as long as I can remember, there were people at our house on Thanksgiving Day that I didn't even know - people who needed a meal, and my parents welcomed them in. We didn't have much to give, but we gave what we could."Since founding Fatheadz in 2004, corporate giving has been part of his business model. "I used to not tell others about my involvement with causes," says Rico. "But somebody told me once that I should be more vocal about it, because it might inspire others to get involved too. And that's exactly what has happened. There's been a ripple effect."According to the American Psychiatric Association, those who volunteer and give back to their communities experience an abundance of personal benefits."Helping others not only benefits those being served but also has mental and physical health benefits for the people volunteering their time. It can bring a sense of belonging, improve self-esteem, distract us from our own problems and help us keep things in perspective. Volunteering can create positive memories we can draw on later and encourage others to repeat the good deed, contributing to a more positive community. Doing things for others can also help reduce stress and boost your immune system."While Rico is involved in numerous fundraising events and philanthropic efforts throughout each year, there are five organizations that are near and dear to his heart. They are:American Racing MinistriesAmerican Racing Ministries is a nonprofit organization focused on helping make the world a better, happier place. With the help of their Chaplains, they spend time with teams, drivers and officials of the United States Auto Club and their circle track events around the US.Assemblies of GodThe Assemblies of God was founded in 1914 in Hot Springs, Arkansas with 300 people at the founding convention. Today there are 13,023 churches in the U.S. with over 3 million members and adherents. There are more than 67 million Assemblies of God members worldwide, making the Assemblies of God the world's largest Pentecostal denomination.Frames of the WorldFrames of the World's mission is to donate new eyeglass frames to organizations throughout the world who provide eyeglasses to those in need. They offer the eye wear needed to improve their vision. To date, their frames have made a difference in the lives of people in El Salvador, Mexico, Costa Rica, Djibouti, the Dominican Republic, Vietnam and Paraguay.Folds of HonorSince 2007, the Folds of Honor has carried forth this singular, noble mission. To provide educational scholarships to spouses and children of America's fallen and disabled service-members.Julian CenterSince 1975, The Julian Center has been supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other life crises.Their mission is to provide the services victims need to recover and build a life absent of abuse. Those services include counseling, safe shelter, case management, advocacy, education, transitional housing, and affordable housing.To find out more about Rico's passion for corporate giving, listen to this interview with The Adam Ritz Show on Social Awareness Radio.How do you give back?We'd love to know about the organizations and causes you are involved with. Please tell us about them by leaving your comments below.
