One of my favorite Ralph Waldo Emerson poem's is about success. One of his definitions is to "leave the world a better place...by a redeemed social condition." We all know that there are many worthwhile cause that we many donate our time and efforts to. And this brings us to this month's marketing tip: volunteerism. Perhaps one of the best ways to increase your circle of contacts is to volunteer. By raising your hand and making an active commitment to help a charitable organization, you contribute to your community, get yourself and your business known, and make new friends. Some people say that if you want to get something done, ask a busy person. If you take a closer look at who serves on boards of various organizations, you will notice that these people are busy. They are doers, and they manage to get things done. Are you telling yourself that you don't have the time? The key to making the most of your volunteer activities is to dedicate yourself to a cause that has meaning for you. If you pick the right issue, you will WANT to spend your time; you will NOT resent the "free" hours you are giving away; and you WILL feel like you are making a difference. As an unavoidable result of your efforts, you will meet new people and widen your web of contacts. One of the ways to volunteer at the most basic level is to participate in a walk-a-thon. On Long Island, if you play your cards right, you could walk the month of October away. Here are a few walks to consider: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Sunday, October 14 Jones Beach State Park Call 631-436-7070 to sign up. The American Heart Walk Sunday, October 21 SUNY Farmingdale and Suffolk Community Colleges. Call 516-777-8447 for further information. Sign-up. Walk. Make some new friends. Join a board. Expand your network. Better your business! I hope to see you there!