With the start of the new year, attention often turns to making resolutions to improve our selves and our lives. But, businesses can benefit from resolutions, too.

The pages of this magazine talk a great deal about green, sustainability and the environment, but one area that has been overlooked is corporate giving. There are many wonderful ways for the furniture and design industry to get involved with the community, and if your company hasn’t already, it’s the perfect time to identify a local or national organization to support.

For example, on Jan. 17, Allsteel Inc. hosted a cocktail reception at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart to celebrate its partnership with Arzu Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides sustainable income to impoverished Afghan women by sourcing and selling the high-quality rugs they weave.

Last September, more than 320 home furnishings industry executives participated in a Midwest Dinner Cruise fundraiser to help raise more than $180,000 to benefit Los Angeles-based City of Hope, a comprehensive cancer center. The annual fundraisers have helped raise more $1 million for the medical center's research and treatment programs.

One of the most direct ways to make an impact is by supporting the National Furniture Bank Association (NFBA), a nonprofit that represents furniture banks across America. The organization’s mission is simple: to increase the capacity of existing furniture banks and to open new ones.

As a leader in the furniture industry – whether it be retail, design or manufacturing – you can make a positive impact on the NFBA’s efforts, as well as your own business. According to the NFBA, retail stores that urge furniture donations see increased traffic and increased sales. A customer with a vacant space where their sofa used to be is a very motivated buyer.

Additionally, removing the old furniture is often a headache for customers. By hauling away and donating your customers’ old furniture, they feel good about their donation and are excited about their new purchase.

And, of course, there is a green angle: Furniture banks prevent thousands of tons of usable furniture from being landfilled or incinerated.

This year, think about what you and your company can do to make a difference. Furniture is more than just objects to fill our homes and offices; it can also help change our world.