Target

Target is a company that stands out in the way that it does business. Instead of relying on a Wal-Mart type strategy of always getting the lowest cost no matter what the consequences, Target has been able to do business in a way that allows it to give back. And when one looks at how much Target contributes, it is clear to see that this company deserves some recognition.

According to the Company Information section of Target's website, the community outreach efforts are divided into seven sections: reading & education, volunteerism, arts & culture, social services, crisis relief, grants, and military & veteran support.

Reading is a big focus for Target with their website saying: "Since 1962, Target has committed 5% of its income to support communities. Today, that totals more than $3 million in giving every week. We're excited to announce a new chapter of that commitment: our pledge of $500 million by the end of 2015 to support education and help kids learn to read. This will be the largest gift in our history, bringing our legacy of giving to education to $1 billion."

Five percent may not seem like all that much of a contribution but for a company the size of Target that adds up to a lot of money donated to worthy causes. Target also has a system set up where customers can do their part to help donate. Its called Take Charge of Education. By using their REDcards, Target customers can choose which schools they would like to receive donations and Target donates one percent of the customers' purchases to those schools. This giving opportunity was also highlighted by Global Learning Charter Public School.

All in all Target is a for profit company that has implemented some easy steps that are making a big impact on the communities that Target is a part of. The amount of money that has been given back is growing, just like the company itself.