Many businesses are adopting the philosophy of being a "Company with a Mission". By doing this, business owners and their employees develop a stronger sense of purpose both within the workplace and outside of the business. Each individual business can cultivate their own way of 'giving back', perhaps by including suggestions from their employees which keeps staff inspired and motivated. When employees are motivated, trained well and enthused about their work, customer service strengthens and businesses prosper. "Companies with a Mission" will be a fast growing concept that will eventually encompass thousands of local companies in the Whatcom County area as well as surrounding counties like Skagit, Everett, Arlington, Marysville and even Alaska and Canada.