Successful groups use goods as complements to their other resources for a total resource package. Some best examples of goods are office furniture, equipment and supplies. Goods, like money, are everywhere, in homes, businesses, governments, civic groups, etc. Goods can be used or surplus, new products and merchandise, loaned goods and goods purchased cooperatively with another group. Many overlook services because, with few exceptions, services are not tax deductible as a charitable contribution.
Some companies deduct the time used in performing a charitable service as a normal business expense.
Others consider community service a business function and keep no record of its performance. Yet, services are a major source of support to successful nonprofit groups. Corporations are the best known contributors, but the giving of services is undoubtedly a community affair-small businesses, vendors, colleges other nonprofits, individual professionals and tradespeople. Those providing services for a fee are probably also providing it free, or at a discount, for some worthy cause. The private sector offers many resources that are limited only by imagination of the stakeholders involved.