Each month, a portion of proceeds earned from new sign-ups in that month is donated to an important cause. In September, the organization is USA for UNHCR. This stands for “United States Association for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees”. This organization works to meet the needs of vulnerable people around the world. They provide protection, food, water, shelter, and medical care to 32 million people around the world who have been forced to live elsewhere because of situations like war or disaster.
32 million people in need of help! Just to put that in perspective (if that’s even possible)… that is the combined population of the states of Arizona, Indiana, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Washington.
So, if you’re thinking about signing up and you need an extra “push”, a portion of your initial fee goes towards helping this needy group.
Jessica Routier, IAC-EZ
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Ups Posted in: Giving Back
We hear in the news all the time about disasters all around us. If we aren’t touched by disaster, chances are someone we know is. Whether it’s localized, like a tornado, or widespread, like a pandemic virus, it seems like we’re always on the brink. So figuring out how to run your business in a disaster is a good idea.
The first step is anticipating your risks. Think about what disasters might befall you. As grim as it is, list them. Not all types of disasters are going to reach everyone (if you live in Midwestern states, you can cross “tsunami” off your list). Think about the likelihood of these happening. Some places flood every year, other places experience tornado warnings every month or two. Know how long you have between initial warning and when disaster actually strikes.
Next, think about preparation. (And remember, we’re talking about keeping your business running, not protecting your family so, while that’s important, it’s just not the scope of this blog.) Think about what is vital to your business’ temporary survival. Is there data you’d be lost without? Do you have vital inventory that would ruin you if it were ruined? Make a list of your “must haves” for every emergency.
Start acting now. In some cases, you can prepare for some disasters today. For example, keep an USB stick of vital data always backed up. Move a number of your services online (hello! Shameless plug for IAC-EZ – we’re your disaster-proof bookkeeping solution). Set aside some inventory in an emergency stockpile. The specifics will depend on your business and what you need to continue working.
When disaster strikes, don’t panic. Make sure you and your family are safe, and make sure that your business can continue.
Let your customers and vendors know. Just because your business can continue doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s going to be business as usual. Contact them and let them know. Most of them will be good enough and understanding enough to work with you. Some won’t and that’s life (and you can only hope that karma kicks them in the butt some day).
As soon as you find yourself in business-survival mode, start thinking about how to ramp back up to full operations again. It won’t be easy and it will take time, but it needs to happen and planning it in the context of your situation will give you something to work towards and look forward to.
Jessica Routier, IAC-EZ
