Zig Ziglar told the story of a friend of his who explained that people tend to be either “cake people” or “candle people.” A cake person sees resources as finite. They will get theirs at whatever the cost, even if it means someone else gets a smaller slice. In contrast, candle people recognize that sharing light with someone else eventually brightens up the whole room for everyone, including themselves.

During critical times, it may be tempting to fall into “cake person” mode. We might feel like our light is so low that we must protect it. We might think we have nothing left to give. And we might be mistaken. It just takes a little spark to light a candle. The challenge is seeing the opportunity, recognizing what we might have to share, and making a meaningful connection.

Finding a Way to Light Up the Room

A few months ago, we decided to find a charity to support as a company. We were looking for an organization that made a difference for those in need here in our local area. When we found DC Central Kitchen, we knew that we had found our match.

We’ve always said that we have no interest in short term profits by giving clients “fish.” If someone does not see our fees as an investment, then they are not our client. We want to teach clients how to fish. They get the best value over time, and it frees us up to serve as many people as possible- thus fulfilling our mission. When we learned about DC Central Kitchen, we realized we found an organization that applied a similar mindset to serve a far more important need. From day one, they refused to just give people both literal and figurative fish. The organization was borne out of frustrations with waste, unfilled community needs, and the status quo. They turned a brilliant and innovative idea into reality. And, they make great use of every resource they cultivate. We wish we could be as cool as they are when we grow up!

Here is how they describe their work: “DCCK is an iconic nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and job creation. The organization provides hands-on culinary job training for individuals facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs and bringing nutritious, dignified food where it is most needed. DCCK’s social ventures include serving scratch-cooked, farm-to-school meals in DC schools, delivering fresh, affordable produce to corner stores in neighborhoods without supermarkets, and operating a fast-casual cafe.” Wow!

The Campaign

DCCK is stepping up right now to help some of the most vulnerable folks in the DMV area and needs all the help it can get. They do amazing things, making a little go a long way. To learn more about their outstanding work during the pandemic, click HERE.

For our next phase of giving, we have decided to do a campaign in May. Association Bridge will match your contributions to DC Central Kitchen up to $2,000. If you would like to join us and share a little of your light, just click HERE. Thank you!