Last night was one of the biggest ever on American Idol.

So who knew that the focus wouldn’t be on the Idols or the judges? I mean, they didn’t even send anyone packing. Like an office without paper, it’s a serious break from tradition.

The “Idol Gives Back” show generated sixty million dollars in online and telephone donations for charitable relief in Africa and America.

But, by design, the show certainly didn’t run commercial free…au contraire! 

In fact, it drew more viewers than ever, as network execs deftly blended the contestant countdown with an appeal for audience support.

So on top of raising big bucks for charity, the big advertisers reached a very tuned-in audience.

But the business of giving back isn’t just for the big boys and girls.

There are more than a few examples of small businesses that have a new take on what it means to turn a buck, as well.

In the case of Lisa Honig Buxbaum and her company Soaringwords, making a living is synonymous with inspiring life in others, specifically sick kids.

You think maybe that’s a line of work someone could feel good about every day?

With gas hitting $4 a gallon, the environmental and political climates heating up, and rage-infused Alec Baldwin voicemails hitting the airwaves, sometimes it can all be a bit too much.

But when all is said and done, it’s nice to know that both big and small business are figuring out that helping others is a great way to make a living.

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