Perform well by doing good: The business case for corporate social responsibility

As businesses grow and succeed, it is easy to get caught up in the day-to-day business and focus only on financial success. But businesses also have a responsibility to society. Especially the society within which they operate. Getting involved in society is more than a good PR move; it is an opportunity for companies to give something back to the people who support them. Many companies have done that in the past, but fortunately more and more are realizing it. 

There are many ways businesses can get involved in their communities, from donations to local charities to volunteering at social enterprises. By doing so, businesses can build a positive reputation and strengthen relationships with customers and stakeholders. In addition, civic engagement can increase employee motivation and commitment and attract top talent that shares the same values.

Whether you are a small business owner or the CEO of a large corporation, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. Below are five ways businesses can positively impact society and how others businesses are doing it in practice. 

1. Donate to local charities and non-profits

Donating to local charities and nonprofit organizations is a great way for businesses to do good and make a positive impact on society. By supporting organizations working to improve the lives of those in need, businesses can not only make a difference in the lives of others but also improve their own brand reputation.

In particular, by supporting organizations that align with their values, companies can build a strong reputation for social responsibility and community involvement. This can help attract and retain customers who value businesses that give something back to their communities.

By partnering with local businesses, they can build relationships with members of the local community and other stakeholders. This can lead to opportunities for collaboration and shared goals, as well as increased visibility and customer loyalty.

There are many local charities and nonprofit organizations that businesses can donate to. For example, businesses can donate to enterprises that provide food and shelter to those in need, such as local food banks or homeless shelters. They can also donate to businesses that support education, such as after-school programs or tutoring. Other options include businesses that promote environmental sustainability, animal welfare, or access to health care.

Examples of large corporations that donate 

Real-world examples of businesses that have donated to local charities and nonprofits and made a positive impact on their communities include:

TOMS Shoes: For every pair of shoes sold, TOMS Shoes donates a pair of shoes to a child in need. They have donated more than 100 million pairs of shoes to children in more than 70 countries. In addition to shoes, they also donate a portion of their profits to clean water initiatives and other charities.

Starbucks: Starbucks is committed to giving back to the communities where they have businesses. They have a program called “Starbucks Community Service” that encourages employees to volunteer in their local communities. They also partner with local businesses to donate food, coffee and other resources to people in need.

PepsiCo: PepsiCo has a program called “PepsiCo Gives Back” that supports a variety of charities. Among other things, they donate to businesses that promote health and wellness, sustainable agriculture, and disaster relief. They also encourage their employees to volunteer in their local communities and offer matching donations for employee contributions.

2. Sponsorship of events and programs

Sponsoring local events and programs is another effective way for businesses to make a positive impact on the community.

One of the main benefits of event sponsorship is increased brand visibility within the local community. By sponsoring a local event, businesses can reach a wider audience and this can help attract new customers and build loyalty with existing customers.

There are many different types of events and programs that businesses can sponsor. For example, businesses can sponsor charity walks or run to raise money for a local cause. They can also sponsor youth sports leagues to support local athletes and promote healthy lifestyles. Other options include music festivals, art performances, and community fairs.

The impact of event sponsorships can be significant. For example, a company sponsoring a charity walk can help raise money for a good cause and increase its brand awareness among participants and spectators. A company sponsoring a youth sports competition can provide young athletes with resources and build relationships with their families and the community at large.

Examples of large corporations sponsoring events and programs

Real-life examples of companies that have sponsored (local) events and programs and made a positive impact on their communities include:

REI: REI is a company that sells outdoor equipment and apparel and is committed to promoting outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. They sponsor events and programs that promote outdoor activities, such as the REI Outessa retreats for women, which offer outdoor activities and workshops on various topics.

Warby Parker: Warby Parker is an eyewear company committed to social responsibility and promoting access to care for your vision. They sponsor programs that provide free or low-cost vision care to underserved communities, such as their Pupils Project, which provides free vision screenings and glasses to school children in need.

KIND Snacks: KIND Snacks is a company that makes healthy snacks and is committed to promoting kindness and community. They sponsor events and programs that promote kindness and community, such as their KIND Heroes program, which recognizes and rewards individuals who perform acts of kindness in their community.

3. Implementing sustainable initiatives

Implementing sustainable initiatives is an important way for companies to make a positive impact on the environment and build a reputation for social responsibility. By reducing their environmental footprint and promoting sustainable initiatives, companies can not only help protect the environment but also improve their bottom line and attract customers who care about sustainability.

There are many sustainable initiatives that businesses can implement. For example, they can reduce waste by using reusable or biodegradable materials, implementing recycling programs and reducing packaging. They can also use environmentally friendly products, such as energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances, non-toxic cleaning products, and low-emission vehicles.

By adopting sustainable practices, companies can not only reduce their environmental impact but also improve their bottom line. For example, lower energy consumption can lower energy bills, and using environmentally friendly products can reduce waste and save money on materials.

Examples of large companies that have implemented sustainable initiatives

Examples of companies that have implemented sustainable initiatives as part of their commitment to doing good include:

IKEA: IKEA is a company committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. They have implemented sustainable practices in all their operations, such as using renewable energy sources in their stores and warehouses, sourcing materials from sustainable forests, and designing products with circularity and sustainability in mind.

Seventh Generation: Seventh Generation is a company that makes eco-friendly cleaning products and is committed to sustainability and social responsibility. They have implemented sustainable practices in all their operations, such as using renewable energy sources in their facilities, using recycled materials in their packaging, and designing products that are safe for the environment and human health.

Eileen Fisher: Eileen Fisher is a fashion company committed to sustainability and social responsibility. They have adopted sustainable practices throughout their operations, such as using organic and recycled materials in their clothing, reducing waste in their production processes, and applying circular design principles to extend the life of their products.

4. Offering vocational training programs and skills development

Offering vocational training and skills development programs is an effective way for companies to make a positive impact on society and build a strong, skilled workforce. By providing training and development opportunities for their employees, businesses can not only improve their bottom line, but also promote economic growth and support the local community.

There are many benefits to offering job training and skills development. For businesses, these programs can improve productivity, reduce turnover and increase employee satisfaction and engagement. By investing in the professional development of their employees, companies can also attract and retain top talent and build a reputation as an attractive place to work.

For the community, training, and skills development programs can promote economic growth and social mobility. By providing training and development opportunities to local residents, businesses can help create a skilled workforce and support the local economy. This can lead to more job opportunities, higher wages, and a better quality of life for community members.

There are many different types of training and skill development programs that businesses can offer. For example, they can offer on-the-job training, internships, mentoring programs, and professional development opportunities. They can also partner with local schools and businesses to provide training and education for residents.

Examples of large businesses offering job training and skill development programs

Companies that offer job training and skills development programs as part of their commitment to do good and have a positive impact on their communities include:

The Home Depot: The Home Depot is committed to offering job training and skills development opportunities to its employees. They offer a variety of training programs, such as their “Path to Pro” program, which provides hands-on training and education to aspiring professionals. They also offer on-the-job training, mentoring programs, and professional development opportunities for their employees.

Walmart: Walmart is committed to offering their employees’ job training and skill development opportunities. They offer a variety of training programs, such as their “Academies” program, which provides training and education for store associates and supervisors. They also offer leadership development programs, mentoring programs, and career opportunities for their employees.

Salesforce: Salesforce is committed to providing vocational training and skill development opportunities for people from disadvantaged communities. They offer a variety of training programs, such as their “Trailhead” program, which provides free online training and certification in technology fields. They also partner with local businesses to offer training and skills development to disadvantaged youth and adults.

5. Volunteering in the community

Community volunteering is a powerful way for businesses to positively impact their communities and build a strong, engaged workforce. By giving their employees the opportunity to volunteer, companies can not only improve their reputation and community relations but also promote employee satisfaction, teamwork, and personal growth.

There are many different types of volunteer activities that enterprises can participate in. For example, they can organize environmental cleanups, support food collections and donations, mentor local youth, participate in charity walks and runs, and volunteer at local schools or hospitals.

Examples of large corporations that have implemented employee volunteer programs 

Companies that have implemented employee volunteer programs as part of their commitment to do good and have a positive impact on society include:

Johnson & Johnson: Johnson & Johnson is committed to improving public health and supporting global communities. They have implemented employee volunteer programs in their offices worldwide, such as the “CaringCrowd” program, which allows employees to donate to and support health-focused nonprofit organizations. They also offer opportunities for employees to participate in skills-based volunteer work, such as medical missions and disaster relief.

Timberland: Timberland is committed to environmental sustainability and community service. They have implemented employee volunteer programs in their offices worldwide, such as the “Path of Service” program, which encourages employees to participate in community service projects in the areas of environment, education, and poverty alleviation. They also provide opportunities for employees to participate in skills-based volunteer work, such as construction and woodworking projects.

Deloitte: Deloitte is committed to social responsibility and community development. They have implemented volunteer programs in their offices worldwide, such as the “Impact Day” program, where employees can participate in community service projects in the areas of education, health, and environmental sustainability. They also provide opportunities for employees to participate in skills-based volunteer work, such as financial management and consulting services for non-profit businesses.