On Giving Back
Will MacFee posing with the "big check" from Systems Support to the Friends of the Marshfield Animal Shelter.

On Giving Back

Last year, we introduced a new client satisfaction survey to better track how we’re doing in resolving issues. To add a little extra incentive (and as a shameless marketing plug), we included a note at the end of the survey: if the client left a Google Review, we’d make a donation to the Marshfield Animal Shelter. For 2024, we received 16 Google Reviews. Considering we close about 100 tickets a week—or thousands over the year—16 reviews might seem like a drop in the bucket. But with so many platforms constantly asking for feedback, review fatigue is real, and we completely understand.

That’s why we wanted to make this campaign count and mean more than just a business transaction. For each review, we pledged to donate $100, resulting in a $1,600 donation to the shelter. In January 2025, we delivered the donation—complete with a comically oversized check. It was an incredible moment, and I’m already looking forward to our next opportunity to give back.

Why Giving Back Matters

Supporting community organizations like the Marshfield Animal Shelter is one of the most rewarding parts of running a business. There’s nothing quite like meeting the people who benefit directly from the resources you help provide. It’s a reminder that business success isn’t just about profits; it’s about making a meaningful impact.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Giving back doesn’t have to stop at donations. One of the most impactful ways to pay it forward is by mentoring the next generation. Taking on an intern or co-op student is an incredible opportunity to give a hardworking young person real-world experience, a sense of contribution, and a launchpad for their career. Yes, it takes time, training, and patience, but the rewards—for both the student and your business—are immeasurable. Bonus points if you can help someone achieve their dream.

Make an Impact in 2025

As we move into 2025, I encourage you to find your own way to give back. Whether it’s cutting a check to a local organization or offering mentorship to someone starting out, these efforts make a lasting difference. Shake the hand of the person whose life you’ve impacted, and you’ll see: the rewards are unlike anything else.

Will MacFee is the CEO of Systems Support in Marshfield, MA.

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