Outlook Media has morphed from a weekly publication into a multi-faceted company whose properties now include Outlook magazine; Network Columbus, a chamber of commerce for GLBT-owned and allied companies and business professionals; Radio Outlook on 1580 AM WVKO; and Suite Q, a retail shop in the Short North.
Traditionally, Outlook has given away advertising space in Outlook magazine each month to a variety of charities, and has also sponsored charity events. However, Outlook Media is kicking its philanthropic support up a notch due, in part, to its new publication, Live Local! Columbus magazine (formerly High Street Neighborhoods magazine).
“When we purchased High Street Neighborhoods magazine, Aaron Leventhal had the High Street Fund, which supported community arts, kids and events,” says Chris Hayes, publisher at Outlook Media.
Just as the magazine was rebranded with its new owners, the fund was rebranded as the Outlook Fund of the Columbus Jewish Foundation. The fund aims to give opportunities to individuals who typically do not have a voice, which ties in with the values of Outlook Media: advocacy, relevancy, building relationships and partnerships, and having fun.
“[The Outlook Fund] works with GLBT youth and inspires them to be leaders and to speak out on their issues and to help them stir the debate and community conversation,” Hayes says.
Outlook is in the process of building up the fund, which will be supported by advertising space in Outlook magazine. Every time a full-page ad is purchased in the magazine, a portion of the revenue will be given to the fund. The plan is to begin funding projects next year after a strong base has been established.
Hayes says the fund will support youths who have “a passion to learn, grow, and share their story with the world.”
Considering the variety of Outlook Media’s holdings and breadth of work, the company knows a thing or two about supporting the local community and nonprofits. When asked how other businesses can help the community, Hayes recommends using something that is intrinsic to your company and what you are passionate about as inspiration. Then, you can create a fund that emulates that in your community.
Philanthropic Pursuit is a monthly feature on The Metropreneur, powered by Community Shares of Mid Ohio. Is your business giving back to the community or partnering with a local nonprofit in a unique way? We want to hear about it. Contact Ryan Kovalaske at [email protected].
