Why not add an element of charity to your event — a way to give back to the community or the environment? Here are five suggestions from LHR Co., Bellevue, Wash., which specializes in organizing these activities:

• Honor attendees with a piece of the rain forest by “adopting” an endangered wildlife species or planting a tree.

• Use room gifts, teasers, and calendars from such charitable organizations as www.tenthousandvillages.com, www.earththatgives.com, www.unicef.org.

• Organize a silent auction of artwork from local artists.

• See if there is a local children's music or dance troupe that would consider a performance in exchange for a donation to its scholarship fund or costume treasury.

• If meeting outside the United States, seek out an initiative in that country that is similar to your company's adopted charity.