With the holiday season in full swing, businesses across Missouri are giving and receiving holiday gifts of wine, chocolates and gourmet food. According to marketing research firm Packaged Facts, corporate food gifts totaled more than $2.7 billion in 2009.

With customers demanding greater corporate social responsibility, some businesses are opting to recognize clients in non-traditional ways this holiday season. Socket, a Missouri-based telephone and Internet provider, has been making charitable donations in lieu of holiday gifts since 2008.

"We used to send out hundreds of popcorn tins to thank customers for their business," said George Pfenenger, co-owner and chief executive officer of Socket. "When we started making charitable donations instead, our clients found that much more meaningful."

This year, Socket is contributing to the Central Missouri Honor Flight and sending 10 World War II veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated in their honor. In recent years, Socket has also donated to Toys for Tots and assembled backpacks for Missouri children removed from abusive homes.

Pfenenger says the vast majority of feedback regarding the donation has been positive. Clients can visit www.WheresMyPopcorn.com to learn about the donation and view pictures of how the gifts will be used.

"Socket is a great example of entrepreneurs realizing the American dream, and that sort of achievement has been made possible through the freedoms our veterans secured for us nearly 70 years ago," said Mary Paulsell, president of the Central Missouri Honor Flight Executive Board. "This gift will give veterans a memorable day they richly deserve in appreciation for their service and sacrifice for our nation."

Founded in 1994, Socket is a Missouri-based telephone and Internet service provider with the largest service coverage in the state. Socket is a privately held company that provides business and residential customers a choice for local and long-distance phone and Internet service. It combines the highest quality customer service with in-depth technical knowledge. Socket's network serves more than 20,000 residents and businesses in more than 400 Missouri cities, and its customers enjoy simple billing and quick, friendly service. For additional information, visit: http://www.socket.net.