Secretary of State Sam Reed, who oversees the state’s Corporations Division, gives you the scoop on a new awards program called Corporations for Communities – and lets you know why you want to be nominated.

Q.) Today you announced a new recognition program called Corporations for Communities and asked the public to nominate exceptional companies. What’s the point?
The point is to identify corporations throughout Washington that are doing exceptional things for their communities – and then to give them a round of applause! In a time when we are bombarded with news of corruption on Wall Street and greedy executives, it’s important to recognize corporations that are using their money, influence and employees to do some good in their communities.

These are tough times in Washington, and I am encouraging individuals – and now companies – to rally together and pitch in. That’s what this award is about.

Q.) You have mentioned “Find Your One Thing” – how is this related to “Corporations for Communities”?
“Find Your One Thing” is my agency’s theme this year because we want to challenge citizens to identify just one area that they can make a difference in – it can be small, big, easy or difficult, just as long as it is one thing more than you are doing now.  “Corporations for Communities” is building on this theme by awarding businesses that have been setting great examples and giving back. I plan on extending these types of civic engagement programs to other divisions throughout my term.

Q.) Many businesses are struggling during this tough economy. The last thing they can do is give away money. What sorts of things can they do to still be involved?
I want to stress this program is not just about recognizing corporations that write big checks to charity! What we’re really interested in honoring is the culture of giving back – perhaps your corporation encourages activism or gives workers time off to volunteer.  Remember, your time, talent and energy can be just as valuable as a cash donation.

Q.) I own a company that is doing amazing things to help the community. Can I nominate myself?
Certainly you can nominate yourself, and we encourage you to share examples of how your company is helping your host community. We will ask that you provide outside references that can also give us some insight into your efforts from a different point of view. For all the nomination details, visit http://www.secstate.wa.gov/corps/corpsforcommunities/.

Q.) I have a very small company – won’t my philanthropic efforts be overshadowed by the big corporations that are nominated?
Not at all. Our panel looks at all the factors and takes the size of your corporation into account. Sometimes, the businesses that are really able to make an impact are those that are closest to the community members – such as the local stores and family-owned shops. As long as you are making a real difference in your community and benefiting the lives of real individuals, we encourage you to apply!