The times are changing — businesses must take action

Bob Dylan’s iconic song, “The Times They Are A-Changin’,” resonates now more than ever as we witness alarming rollbacks in social progress and significant cuts to the social safety nets that many individuals and families rely on for support.

These changes not only affect the most vulnerable among us but also highlight a growing gap in the resources available to help our communities thrive.

As nonprofit organizations grapple with these funding losses, it becomes clear that they cannot shoulder the burden alone — especially when they are facing cuts themselves. In this pivotal moment, businesses must step forward to play a crucial role in supporting the social fabric of our communities.

What we do now will leave lasting impacts on our workforce, our neighborhoods, our children and the economy for years to come. The collective choices we make will shape the future we leave behind.

It’s essential to remember that the issues affecting our local area aren’t problems for others; they are our issues, too. Leaders in business and the community must become attuned to the needs of their employees, customers and the broader community, as well as operational challenges like tariffs that may impact everyone.

The business community has a unique opportunity to express its perspectives and needs without being tied to a specific political agenda. One way to understand the needs of your organization is to host a roundtable discussion with employees. This forum enables everyone to voice what truly matters to them, creating a shared understanding of community priorities and concerns.

Speaking up for the needs of others represents true leadership. However, many individuals and businesses hesitate due to a fear of controversy, worries about political backlash or simply feeling overwhelmed about where to begin. Often, the perception exists that advocacy is not within the realm of business responsibilities. However, staying silent is not neutral; it is, in fact, a choice to take a side.

In New Hampshire, our legislative bodies — often seen as distant and bureaucratic elsewhere — are, in fact, quite accessible. Local representatives actively seek our input, recognizing that they are not necessarily experts on every issue. They rely on the voices of their constituents to understand the real concerns and needs of the community.

And we have more legislators than most states, so you have likely passed a member of our House of Representatives at the local grocery store or transfer station. In this unique democratic system, choosing to engage in the process has never been easier.

Contacting local representatives is straightforward. You can send a letter of support, an email or even leave a voicemail — no personal conversation is necessary. While it may seem intimidating at first, weighing in on legislative matters through official websites is an approachable way to remind our policymakers of the issues that matter to us.

Joining a business group, such as New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility (NHBSR), can also amplify your voice and connect you with others who share your commitment to advocacy.

In conclusion, I urge everyone to identify the areas affecting their communities and to lead bravely. We all have a part to play in shaping the future and ensuring our voices are heard. The time for change is now, and together, we can make a significant difference in our communities. For the times they are a-changin’.

Emily Hall Warren is the director of people and culture at the W.S. Badger Company, a family-run and family-friendly manufacturer of natural and certified organic personal care products since 1995. To learn more, visit badgerbalm.com. New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility produces “Sustainability Spotlight” monthly for NH Business Review.