Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can a for-profit company give its profits away and stay in business?
A: All companies give away their profits. The only difference is we give most of ours to community groups instead of shareholders. And we don't give away our salaries, just our profits. We all get paid well – including full healthcare benefits!
Q: Do you charge higher prices because you give your profits away?
A: If we did, we couldn't stay in business, because we know your job is to save your company money. That’s why we offer prices below superstores. Part of the reason we're able to do so is that we don't have the massive expenses of retail stores.
Q: Have other companies followed in your footsteps?
A: One of our goals is to serve as a model for other companies. Our president, Mike Hannigan, lectures frequently at business schools and conferences throughout the nation. And several companies, including Ethos Water, which was recently bought by Starbucks, came to us for advice when they were first starting out.
Q: How do you decide which charities you support?
A: Community groups are nominated by individuals and voted on by customers and employees of Give Something Back through an annual balloting process. Donations are awarded at an exciting celebration each year, featuring guest speakers such as actor and activist Danny Glover.
Q: If it's a no-brainer, why doesn't everyone use Give Something Back?
A: We think they will, once they hear about us and give us a try. We offer unparalleled prices and personal service and we provide vital support to our communities. What's not to love?
Q: You sound too good to be true! How do we know you're for real?
A: Great question! GSB has met stringent criteria to gain several respected certifications. We gained Green Certification from the Alameda County Green Business Program. In order to qualify, we had to meet strict environmental standards, including the installation of low flow toilets and high-efficiency lighting fixtures. We are also a founding "B Corporation" company. B Corps – the B stands for beneficial – must meet over 100 comprehensive and transparent social and environmental performance standards. Featured in media including the New York Times, Inc magazine, BusinessWeek, and NPR's "Marketplace" program, B Corp is the "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval" for environmentally and socially responsible companies. In addition, GSB is a member of the most respected socially responsible business organizations, the Social Venture Network, Co-Op America, and the Sustainable Business Alliance.
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