PYMOUTH, Mich. – Allegra Network franchise members have donated more than $4 million in free marketing and print services to local nonprofit organizations and associations as part of a decade-long commitment to strengthen local communities.

The Plymouth, Mich.-based company launched the FootPRINT Fund^® for nonprofit friends in 2003 to help charitable organizations “leave a footprint” in their communities. Allegra Network franchise members – operating under the brands Allegra, Insty-Prints and American Speedy Printing – have rallied around the program as a means to “give back” and support organizations that are making a difference.

Allegra Network is one of world’s largest marketing, print and graphic communications franchises linking nearly 500 locations across North America.

According to Allegra Network Vice President of Marketing Jessica Eng, “A recent study of nonprofits by Blackbaud shows that direct mail and special events are the most popular channels for fundraising. It’s a natural fit for our franchise members to help their local nonprofits make the greatest impact with these and other marketing channels, whether the goal is fundraising or promoting the scope and availability of their services.”

Dozens of nonprofits across central Iowa have had various print and marketing projects funded by Allegra Marketing, Print, Mail in Urbandale. The franchise location has donated $120,000 to help sustain vital community services. “Our team has seen the effects of shrinking marketing budgets over the years,” says Amy Eaton, marketing services director. “These groups tend to be working with limited funds but still have a great need to spread their message to donors, volunteers and supporters. The FootPRINT Fund is one way that we can give back to help these nonprofits to grow.” Ask Denise Spalding, president of Allegra – East in Louisville why she sponsors the FootPRINT Fund and she says simply, “We really feel we can help make dreams come true.” The Louisville center has donated more than $500,000 to nonprofit organizations over the years, impacting the lives of thousands in the community.

Spalding highlights one organization that used its award to create a personalized donor appeal, resulting in a 275% increase in donations and a 71% increase in number or donors. “Using more sophisticated technologies to customize messaging has proven effective time and again,” says Spalding. “Results-driven marketing is essential for nonprofits and for-profit companies alike.”

For Marketing Manager Tim Meesseman of Allegra Marketing, Print, Mail in Aiken, S.C., the FootPRINT Fund is an expression of a family business’ community spirit. “We feel it is our duty to assist the community that we love so much,” says Meesseman, “and hopefully, our donations will have a lasting impact on the organizations who take advantage of them.” The local chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is just one beneficiary of the annual program. When the SPCA facility was destroyed by fire, the nonprofit’s $1,000 FootPRINT Fund award went toward signage for its new structure.

Each franchise location has an application process for nonprofits to request funds. Some use social media to involve the community in deciding which groups should get funding; others appoint committees to review award applications and select recipients.

Nonprofit organizations seeking to apply for a FootPRINT Fund award should go to www.allegranetwork.com/find-location to find a nearby, participating Allegra Network location.