A Chance for a franchise business to give back to the community

Greg Campbell| Franchise Owner | Mortgage Choice 

I have been with the Mortgage Choice franchise business for 8 years, and although not many knew about it, I was giving to charity from the very start. Giving back to the community has always been ingrained in me. The community supports us and is responsible for our success, so I believe it is our duty to give back.

I have been involved with Camp Quality now for 12 years in a personal capacity, since my sister Gayle passed away from breast cancer at the age of 26. About 5 years ago Camp Quality wanted to set up their own Christmas Party and needed a sponsor. When the opportunity arose to get involved with Camp Quality I was very busy with the franchise business and had no time- but I thought to myself, it's now or never. It was then that I started getting fellow Mortgage Choice franchisees involved by allocating a share of earnings to be collected for Camp Quality. We also put Camp Quality logos on company cars that were driven interstate to help promote their brand.

Being part of a franchise business has given me the opportunity to make an impact far greater than i could have, just by myself.

Customer and Client Involvement

Without customers, the giving process would not be possible. For this reason we make customers aware that they are part of this generosity, as a share of the commission from each settlement is given to Camp Quality. We send out bookmarks and promotional material, as well as organise fundraising events, informing our customers about Camp Quality and furthering their involvement in the giving process. However, customer commitment goes beyond business activities, as in many instances, no matter where I am, I find myself collecting donations from customers to pass on to Camp Quality.

I continuously use my network within the Mortgage Choice franchise business to build charity and get clients and suppliers to participate in our programs. One of our suppliers, Commonwealth Bank, has become engaged in this process, as they plan to buy a table at the Camp Quality supper club in every state, which will raise $15,000- $20,000 for Camp Quality. Commonwealth Bank also sent out 10 employees on a regular paid day to volunteer at one of the camps for Camp Quality. Clients have gladly given their goods and services to help out those in need. Dolphin River Explorer kindly took the children from Camp Quality on their boat to show them a good time and let them forget about their problems for the day.

"Being part of a franchise business has given me the opportunity to make an impact far greater than i could have, just by myself"

Looking to the Future

The Camp Quality mentality of fun and laughter is what initially drew me in. I believe that it's really important to have a good time, and not just by me, but by everyone. You can see that throughout my entire business, as staff in the franchise business have days off put into their contract - they are given the day off on their birthdays and have a day off to get involved with Camp Quality and the community. So we'll be remaining involved with Camp quality for years to come. When it comes down to it, it doesn't matter how much you give or who you give to- just get involved!