Still, there's a side to promo products that isn't just about monetizing your brand. It is also a tool for social action. Whether you're a non-profit organization out to make the world a better place or a big company aiming to show clients that you're big on corporate responsibility, promo products can help you effectively deliver your message.

Here are three easy ways to do this:

Get the message out ? Breast cancer and AIDS awareness camps have extensively used promo products to get the message out. As always, the best way to spread the word is to give things away for free. If you're low on funds but still want to get the job done, there are a lot of cost-effective promotional items available to you. Stickers, magnets and buttons are examples of these.

Have a ball ? An awareness ball is a great way to push your cause and raise funds at the same time. There are two ways to earn from a charity ball. First, you can sell tickets for a plated dinner. Second, during the event, you can auction off some promotional items that are imprinted with your identifiable logo.

Sell it for profit. Buying promotional products in bulk can help you save big on the items. Sell it for a higher price and use the profit to further your cause. If you are not a representative of the official charitable institution, please check with your local government how you can tie-up with one. Some States have laws concerning charitable sales promotions.

Choosing the right promo product

When choosing a promotional product as a tangible representative of your cause, you should consider several things.

First, pick a promotional product that has mass appeal. Silicone bracelets are among the most popular options for this purpose. Most charity institutions take a page from the success of the Lance Armstrong Foundation's Live STRONG campaign.

Second, work within your budget. Not all charitable organizations have the funds to start a big promotional products campaign. Be realistic and get what you can afford.

Third, never compromise quality for quantity. Keep in mind that the promo product that you are giving away says a lot about your cause. You don't want your target audience to associate your cause with an item that isn't even worth keeping.

Fourth, pick a product that they'd use. Functionality plays a big role in the success of your charity promo product. Aside from having walking ads for your campaign, you are also building a base of supporters. The more people see others wearing it, the more they would feel like it's a cause worthy of their support.