Think of the phrase, “It takes a village”. What do you picture? Thriving, vibrant communities, safe neighborhoods, strong schools, healthy local economies, and connected people. But communities like these do not create themselves; they require people who are willing to be villagers.
Businesses that show up and give back in the community are the types of businesses that are creating a metaphorical village. Service builds stronger organizations through employee engagement, morale, leadership development, and community trust. As Gail Miller, cofounder of the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation, said, “Giving back isn’t just good business — it enriches lives, strengthens communities, and blesses everyone involved.”
South Valley Chamber President and CEO Jay Francis had the privilege of working with Gail Miller and the Miller family and helped create the “Larry H. Miller Day of Service,” honoring Larry’s deep commitment to giving back and serving the community. That experience showed him how even small acts of service, done consistently and with purpose, can make a meaningful and lasting difference.
“It reinforced for me that businesses are at their best when they serve something greater than themselves,” said Francis. “When companies encourage employees to give back and become involved in their communities, it not only strengthens the community, it strengthens the culture, purpose, and long-term success of the business itself.”
You do not need massive resources to make an impact. Many businesses assume impact requires major financial resources, but meaningful change comes through time, consistency, and presence. Find a local nonprofit that needs an extra set of hands or organize a simple day of service with your team. The opportunities already exist—you just have to show up.
Start by looking internally at your company’s values. What does your business represent? What kind of impact do you want to leave behind? Gather your team, go to the whiteboard, and brainstorm service opportunities that align naturally with your mission and culture. Giving back is one of the clearest ways leadership becomes visible. Sometimes the most meaningful acts are also the simplest.
Writing letters and providing comfort to active-duty military members deployed overseas is a perfect example. This summer, the South Valley Chamber is inviting business leaders and community members to participate in “A Taste of Home,” a summer-long service initiative supporting active-duty military members as part of the America Gives campaign.
The “Taste of Home” care packages will include comfort snacks and handwritten letters for active-duty military members. The project officially kicks off on June 10 at the Chamber’s Let’s Do Lunch event and will accept donations through August 26. To conclude the project, the Chamber will host a luncheon on September 9, 2026, where attendees will help assemble the care packages. To donate an item or contribute to the general fund, visit the Chamber’s Amazon registry page.
In a time marked by division and disconnection, service brings people back together. America has always been strengthened by people willing to step forward and serve something larger than themselves.
Choose one meaningful way to reinvest in your community this year. It does not have to be a large-scale project. Participate in an existing local initiative. Involve your employees, partners, and peers, and look for consistent ways to contribute.
Yes, it takes a village—so be a villager.
How you can contribute to the South Valley Chamber “Taste of Home” service project:
- Purchase items from the Chamber’s Amazon registry page
- Donate to the general care package fund on the Chamber’s Amazon registry page
- Attend the assembly event on Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- Share the project with friends and coworkers
Contact Miriam Dixon at miriam@southvalleychamber.com for more information.