Tag: social responsibility

Why Focusing Only on Profit Is Holding Your Business Back | Entrepreneur

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Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You need focus to build a business, but my experience has taught me that there’s also such a thing as being too single-minded.

Financial, environmental and community goals aren’t competing objectives; they’re interconnected. This is why founders who chase revenue at the expense of value for their customers or broader social impact often experience limited growth.

This is a bit like buying a gym membership and then letting your diet go because you’re working out. Just like healthy eating habits are part of an effective fitness plan, your mission and values are essential parts of creating a business plan that works.

So when my brother Todd and I founded Roof Maxx as a cost-effective alternative to roof replacement, it was about more than filling a gap we saw in the market. It was about solving a problem we saw people struggling with and doing it in a way that also helped those people feel like they were changing the world for the better.

Here’s what we learned.

Related: 4 Ways to Engage Your Customers in Social Good — And Why It Matters

Consumers already want to do the right thing; you just have to help them

Call me naive, but I take a view of the world that most people are basically good — or at least, they want to be.

They might not always put the right items in the recycling bin, but that’s not because they hate the planet. They’re usually just confused or short on time, because modern life can be hectic and overwhelming.

That means appealing to guilt is rarely the most effective way to sell someone on a socially responsible product or service. Guilt can be a powerful emotional trigger, but it only works when someone doesn’t want to do something.

Todd and I saw this a lot in the early days of Roof Maxx. We knew many homeowners already had some idea of how much waste roof replacement produces, so we didn’t harp on it. No one was throwing away their shingles every few years because they genuinely believed it was good for the planet. They were doing it because the rest of the industry had convinced them there was no viable alternative.

When people already want to make a change but don’t feel like they have the option, guilt just makes them feel worse. In these cases, you need to show them the option exists, then use other strategies to win their business.

Related: How to Market to the Increasingly Socially Conscious Customer

Learn to position “doing good” as “getting more”

Since most people already want to be better citizens, you don’t need to waste time trying to convince them it’s a good idea. Instead, you should spend most of your pitch showing how easy you can make it for them and how they can benefit from taking action.

The first few times we pitched Roof Maxx to homeowners, I saw how true this was. They listened when we talked about how they could save 3.8 tons of landfill waste on average by rejuvenating their roofs with our treatment instead of replacing them, but that wasn’t really where we won them over. The vast majority came on board when we showed them our solution cost up to 80% less than a full replacement, and that it could be done in a few hours instead of taking days or weeks.

Those experiences showed me that we didn’t have to make our customers more willing to do good in the world, because most of them already had that motivation. All we had to do was take away the obstacles they felt were standing in their way.

Social proof is never about you; it’s about your customers

One of the things that struck me most about the first homeowners to work with us was how proud they were. That pride didn’t just stem from the time and money they had saved. For a lot of them, it also came from feeling like they had made a difference by reducing their carbon footprint. They felt like they had joined a community that was working to improve the world around them.

It would have been easy to edit the many testimonials we received and trim them down into concise endorsements of our company. Many brands do. But we didn’t, because we knew those testimonials weren’t just about us. They were about the kinds of people who chose us and the values that those people upheld.

A customer who touts the quality of your product is a good advocate. But a customer who sees your product as a way to help them live a better life is a great one. The more you showcase those people, the better you look by association.

Related: Here’s Why Values Matter So Much in Business

People are more loyal to values than they are to brands

One last piece of advice: Brand loyalty is a fickle thing, but values tend to exist on a deeper level. People change their cell phone plans far more often than they change their core convictions.

That means a strong mission helps you build long-term loyalty. If you’re really committed to saving money for people, protecting the environment or community building, then you’ll always be appealing to people who value those goals. And if you can somehow find a way to do all three at once, that loyalty becomes much more difficult to lose to a competitor.

So while it might be tempting to focus on raw profit when you’re starting out, don’t be fooled. Your mission isn’t there to distract from your margins; it’s there to set your brand apart and attract customers who already want to be on board. From there, it’s just a matter of showing them how easy it is to get involved.

You need focus to build a business, but my experience has taught me that there’s also such a thing as being too single-minded.

Financial, environmental and community goals aren’t competing objectives; they’re interconnected. This is why founders who chase revenue at the expense of value for their customers or broader social impact often experience limited growth.

This is a bit like buying a gym membership and then letting your diet go because you’re working out. Just like healthy eating habits are part of an effective fitness plan, your mission and values are essential parts of creating a business plan that works.

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Mike Feazel

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August 25, 2025
How prison dog programs transforms the lives of inmates | Animal Wellness Magazine

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Discover how prison dog programs help inmates transform their lives through the healing bond with dogs.

When it comes to the life-changing impact that dogs can have on humans, probably the most striking examples come from prison inmates. These hurt, hardened, embittered individuals frequently respond more positively to dogs than they do to their fellow humans. Thanks to a growing number of prison dog programs, more and more offenders are turning their lives around.

Insecure attachments can predispose people to criminal activity

According to attachment theory, babies form a secure attachment to their mothers. Mothers tune into their babies so they can fulfill their needs. Inconsistent care from the mother, however, leads to an insecure attachment.

“These relationship styles become templates for subsequent bonds,” says Colleen Dell, a professor at the University of Saskatoon who studies the human-animal bond. “Children with secure attachments connect authentically with others. Those with insecure ties are more anxious to belong, and more likely to get involved in criminal activity.”

Dogs offer non-judgmental support

This is where dogs come in. By offering non-judgmental comfort and support to prison inmates, a dog becomes a surrogate attachment figure.

“The dog gives you attention that you didn’t have to do anything for,” Colleen says. “That would be the definition of helpful parenting.”

Once the dogs gain their trust, offenders tend to open up more to other humans. As testimony, let’s take a look at two prison dog programs — The Doghouse and Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change Prison Program. Both programs are howling successes.

The Doghouse – Fraser Valley Institution, Abbottsford, BC

Odin is terrified by the unfamiliar noises in the prison – his body is shaking and his tail is between his legs. Inmate Amanda can relate – she too is scared of loud sounds. She takes the dog back to her cottage and cuddles with him until he’s calm. They bond instantly.

“When I’m comforting Odin,” says Amanda, “he’s also comforting me.”

Amanda is one of roughly 250 inmates who have participated in The Doghouse, a vocational training program for offenders at the Fraser Valley Institution. The program provides grooming, boarding, and dog training services for the public, and also teaches basic obedience to rescue dogs from the Langley Animal Protection Society. The program also benefits inmates in a huge way.

Offenders not only learn techniques such as recognizing animal body language and practicing dog first aid, but also acquire skills such as communication, discipline and responsibility, according to Alicia Santella, manager of the program. These abilities can transfer into any job they pursue upon release.

Amanda never had the opportunity to gain soft skills. Now 38, she grew up neglected by her parents, who favored her siblings.

“I just felt alone all the time,” she says. Incarceration made her feel even lonelier, as she became estranged from her relatives. She grew deeply depressed and rarely left her room.

But the Doghouse prison dog program snapped her out of her doldrums. The woman who used to sleep in every day now rises at dawn to feed the dogs in the kennel. Her people skills have improved, and she’s now able to handle “difficult” co-workers. Most importantly, the dogs have affirmed Amanda’s intrinsic worth.

“They just love me, no matter what I do,” she says.

Program participants’ self-worth rises alongside their accomplishments, adds Alicia. Most of The Doghouse’s clients are pleased with the superior care their dogs receive, and contact with supportive members of the public “can help build [the inmates’] confidence in themselves,” Alicia says.

Amanda has blossomed since joining The Doghouse. Many clients have praised her work, telling her their dogs don’t want to leave her care and come home. Amanda has also forged some close relationships amongst her fellow dog-lovers, some of whom she now considers her new family.

“I’m happier,” she says. “I’m smiling all the time.”

Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change Prison Program – North Kern State Prison, Delano, CA

Burly inmate Melvin struts across the yard at North Kern State Prison and encounters a rare situation – a creature who defies him. Leila, his first dog in Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change Prison Program, is an unruly poodle who barks at staff and tackles other animals. Melvin reins her in by teaching her to sit still on a mat during the dogs’ playtime. He earns Leila’s obedience, and discovers how to mold an animal using connection rather than coercion.

This prison dog program, which pairs death row dogs in shelters with incarcerated inmates inside California state prisons, has brought redemption to over 1,000 humans and more than 500 dogs.

During the 14-week program, inmate students learn dog training techniques. The rehabilitation is bi-directional. The under-socialized dogs are mostly unadoptable and slated for euthanasia when they first enter the Pawsitive Change program, according to founder Zach Skow. But by the end, they’ve become model canine citizens and most find forever homes.

Meanwhile, the inmates learn empathy as they recognize themselves in their abandoned and often abused charges. Empathy was in short supply during Melvin’s childhood. He was only five when his father was murdered.

“That left me with a void,” he says, and an “unbearable pain” that he suppressed. But the loss made him more vulnerable to peer pressure, and at age 11, he joined a gang that schooled him in drug-dealing and violence. “If I had to make a statement, it wasn’t by talking,” says Melvin.

The Pawsitive Change program challenges these machismo attitudes. It teaches inmates how to access troubling emotions such as sadness or anger before they transmit them to the dogs, says Zach. When students are faced with unproductive feelings, they’re encouraged to process them by talking to a teammate or just taking a break.

Students also learn to tune in to the dogs’ experiences. If a dog becomes aggressive when touched, for example, inmates are invited to view this as a manifestation of fear rather than a personal insult, says dog trainer Nhut Vo. Students learn to accommodate these frightened animals, using a longer leash to give them more space. This flexible approach to relationships can also be applied to human interactions, Nhut advises.

As his successes mounted, Melvin’s self-esteem increased. Watching the dogs improve kindled hope in his own ability to change.

The work also fostered a sense of purpose. Even though he was still in prison, Melvin had found a way to “give back,” he says. “It was fulfilling.”

Collaboration is another outcome of the Pawsitive Change program. While the prison system is racially segregated, the participants have to cooperate to train the animals, says Nhut. Inmates frequently pool their money to buy treats for the dogs and celebrate their adoptions with brownies.

These lessons have generated impressive outcomes. Most graduates of this prison dog program find work in the pet industry after they’re released, says Zach. Not one has reoffended.

Today, Melvin is thriving. Since his release from prison eight months ago, he’s reconnected with his family and procured work as a dog trainer. “I’m thankful just to be in the sun, watching dogs play,” he says. “It’s beautiful.”

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Vivien Fellegi

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October 11, 2024
dlivrd Enhances Community Impact, Partners With Over 25 Charities in 2023
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As part of its corporate social responsibility commitment, dlivrd partnered with numerous organizations in 2023 with more ahead in 2024.
HORSHAM, Pa., February 14, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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dlivrd, a leading delivery service provider specializing in catering and routed deliveries, proudly announces its impactful collaboration with numerous diverse charity organizations throughout the year 2023.

These partnerships have allowed dlivrd to provide financial support to local youth athletic clubs, organize volunteer events for employees to participate in, and offset carbon impact through companies like Ecologi. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to giving back and supporting communities across various sectors.

In a concerted effort to make a positive difference, dlivrd has extended its support to a wide range of charitable causes, including but not limited to:
- Autism Awareness and Foundations for Populations with Disabilities: Contributing to autism awareness, providing resources, and supporting research initiatives.
- Local Youth Sports Leagues: Promoting health, teamwork, and leadership among younger generations.
- Community Training and Career Scholarships: Empowering and supporting students who think outside the box and recognize that not all successes are derivative of a traditional path.
- Support for First Responders: Showing appreciation for the dedication of our emergency responders.
As part of the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, all dlivrd’s corporate employees are encouraged to volunteer on a quarterly basis. This initiative not only strengthens community bonds but also fosters a sense of responsibility among team members and aligns deeply with dlivrd’s core values.

“As a company deeply rooted in our communities, we believe in the power of collective efforts to bring about positive change,” said Marge Loveday, COO of dlivrd. “Our collaboration with these charitable organizations allows us to make a meaningful impact and support causes that are important to our employees and the communities we serve.”

Through volunteering, dlivrd’s corporate employees have the opportunity to contribute their skills and expertise towards various charitable initiatives, such as food drives, mentorship programs, and environmental conservation projects. “This not only allows them to give back to society but also enhances their personal growth and development as they learn new perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by different communities,” states Chris Heffernan, Founder & CEO of dlivrd.

Looking ahead, dlivrd has set ambitious goals to double its support in 2024. The company aims to expand its reach and extend assistance to even more causes, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community welfare.

About dlivrd:

dlivrd is a leading food delivery platform defined by its unwavering commitment to reliability and dependability for the restaurants and drivers who partner with them. With a vast network of catering driver partners, dlivrd empowers restaurants to expand their catering services and meet the escalating demand for timely and professional deliveries.

Source: dlivrd
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February 14, 2024
How to Build a Socially Responsible Employer Brand | Entrepreneur

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Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

The world has changed. People have changed. Why shouldn’t businesses change, too?

Fact is, they should, and they should do it wholeheartedly — and soon. Employees and consumers alike expect more. And they’re making their employment and purchasing decisions based on the values that organizations demonstrate rather than just espouse.

Gen Z is leading the pack when it comes to putting corporations’ feet to the fire. Deloitte research indicates that Gen Z is motivated by purpose and a brand’s good global citizenship reputation. This only makes sense. Growing up in an era of rapid information dissemination, Gen Z was hyper-aware of global issues like climate change, social inequality and human rights abuses.

Of course, we shouldn’t assume that only Gen Z workers care about social responsibility. People of all ages and from all generations have become skeptical about companies’ corporate social responsibility efforts. They want to make sure that their employer (or future employer) isn’t just “checking the box” but is following through on promises. For instance, more than 5,000 organizations have earned Certified B Corps designations. In the future, that designation may be not just expected but standard.

Related: Why Should Your Business Care About Social Responsibility?

But what exactly does it mean for a business to walk the walk, not just talk the talk? For some, it means investing $100 million in the brand’s Racial Equity and Justice initiative, which is focused on addressing systemic racism through educational support. For others, it means sending 7.5% of pre-tax profits back into community organizations throughout the nation, as well as championing human rights, social and economic justice, and environmental protection. For many, it means working toward 100% carbon neutrality.

However, for every positive corporate example, the opposite exists as well. More than one brand has found trouble in the last few years due to greenwashing ventures. Or maybe it’s a viral PR disaster like a failed commercial that made light of ongoing and serious national tensions. Audiences today will hold brands accountable for missteps as much as celebrate their success.

The point is that your company can’t hide behind slogans or statements. To appeal to modern workers and customers, you have to showcase your commitment to social responsibility. If you don’t, you can be sure that your competitors will be the first to call you on the carpet.

To get started, try these methods to initiate the process of folding social change into all the fibers of your corporation’s brand and culture fabric.

1. Engage your stakeholders, not just your shareholders

There’s no doubt that you have to be conscientious about your shareholders when you’re a business leader. Shareholder value has been the primary focus for companies for decades. However, sometimes corporate social responsibility conflicts with a focus on profits. Why? The simple answer is that corporate social responsibility often requires a sizable financial investment. Not always, mind you — consumers are starting to pay more for products and services backed by socially responsible companies. Nevertheless, your job is to look beyond just your shareholders and engage your stakeholders.

When I refer to stakeholders, I refer to everyone with a stake in your organization, including team members. Remember: They have a choice as to where they’re going to work. Nearly seven out of 10 professionals planned to resign in 2023. You can’t afford that kind of attrition, so you need to collaborate with your employees to build a collective vision and commitment around social change. Be aware that your team members will have different visions and different appetites for what social change means. That’s a good thing because it elicits deeper conversations and helps you get closer toward your goals.

Related: 10 Ways to Make Your Business More Socially Conscious

2. Listen to what matters to people

Instead of automatically arguing or debating social points, put yourself into a “listen and learn” mode. Find out what’s really important to others. Ask questions. Why do they feel the way they do? What’s important to them? What kind of stand would they like to see you take as their employer or preferred brand? You don’t have to do everything they want, but you’ll be in a better position to make decisions if you “get” them.

After educating yourself through active, open-minded listening, you’ll be prepared to problem-solve and lead your company and team forward. By leading the charge, you can show your authentic desire to make a positive impact based on the needs and wants of your stakeholders. In other words, you’ll have a rare opportunity to demonstrate proactive leadership, innovation and creativity to the biggest societal challenges we face today.

3. Lean into major headlines and movements

When the “don’t say gay” headlines hit the front page of every major media outlet, did you consider saying anything about it as a company? Or did you shy away from the topic? Right now, employees and buyers want to know that their favorite brands care about what’s happening. You don’t have to rush into making a statement, of course. You just shouldn’t avoid creating a space for respectful dialogue and discussion about the subjects of the day.

Can these types of conversations be awkward? Absolutely, which is why I recommend turning to resources and guides to help you navigate these conversations. By enabling everyone to speak their piece, you show that you value transparency within your workplace. And transparency begets trust, credibility, and accountability — all essential for building tighter teams where people feel psychologically safe and can bring their best selves to work.

Initiating social change requires dedication, consistency and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact. Although it takes energy and investment, it’s worth every minute and penny to transform your company into one that’s seen as unfailingly socially responsible.

Related: Corporate Social Responsibility Is More Than Just Charity — Here’s Why It’s Good for Business.

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Gloria St. Martin-Lowry

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December 6, 2023
Should Your Brand Embrace Social Issues? | Entrepreneur

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Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

In a recent LinkedIn poll of mine, I asked my audience, “How likely are you to engage with a brand that actively supports a social issue?” You may or may not be surprised to learn that over 3,000 votes were “very likely.”

With the digital landscape evolving at a rapid pace, consumers are not focusing their search strictly on products and services – they are also seeking to connect with brands that share their values and support social causes. As a result, many businesses find themselves asking a crucial question: “Should we embrace social issues and integrate them into our brand identity?”

Together, let’s dive into the complexities of this decision, exploring the potential benefits and challenges of aligning your brand with social issues.

Related: Consumers Demand a Stance on Social and Political Issues. Are You Ready to Speak Out?

Building stronger connections with consumers

Purpose-driven branding has emerged as a powerful marketing strategy that resonates with modern consumers. By aligning your brand with social issues, you demonstrate a commitment to making a positive impact beyond profits. This approach fosters emotional connections with your target audience, leading to increased brand loyalty and advocacy.

Consumers seek to engage with brands that stand for something meaningful, and this approach appeals to emotions, creating a sense of trust and admiration for your brand. It strengthens brand loyalty as like-minded consumers join your cause and become advocates.

However, authenticity is crucial. Consumers can detect insincere attempts at purpose-driven branding, which may lead to reputational damage. To succeed, ensure that your commitment to social issues goes beyond marketing rhetoric and is deeply embedded in your brand’s culture and practices — more on this below.

Related: 10 Things Entrepreneurs Never Want to Talk About, But Should

Retaining like-minded employees that drive results

Embracing social issues goes beyond its impact on customer relationships — it can also significantly influence a brand’s ability to attract and retain top talent. With the job market being more competitive than ever, employees (especially the younger generations) place a strong emphasis on finding purpose and meaning in their careers.

Their focus is on seeking opportunities that align with their personal values and offer not only financial support but also mental support. When your brand is actively associated with the employee-first mentality, you’re likely to resonate strongly with these job seekers.

It has been shown that when a company makes an effort to stand for social causes and contribute to positive change, it sends a powerful message about its core values. This, in turn, attracts employees who are not just seeking a job but are eager to be part of something greater, where they can contribute to initiatives that matter to them on a personal level.

When companies embrace these issues, it not only attracts talent but also plays a role in retaining these employees, thus saving the company time and money.

Employees who feel that their contributions positively impact society are more likely to be motivated and loyal to the organization. Brands that prioritize social initiatives enhance their reputation and create an internal culture that attracts and retains loyal and eager individuals.

Related: How to Build Reputation in an Industry From Scratch

Navigating the challenges of social issue alignment

While embracing social issues can bring numerous benefits, it also comes with potential challenges that require careful consideration. Let’s review some of the key factors to bear in mind.

Authenticity matters – Consumers are becoming increasingly discerning and can spot disingenuous attempts at social issue alignment. Ensuring that your brand’s commitment to the cause is genuine and backed by tangible actions is essential.

This means continuing to make your stance known all year long. For example, it would be a bad idea to advocate for Pride Month but not mention the importance of inclusivity in your marketing after June. To reiterate the above, these issues must be a part of who you are as a brand.

Potential backlash – Publicly aligning with certain social issues may invite backlash from individuals or groups who hold differing opinions. Thoroughly research the issue and assess its alignment with your customers’ values before taking a stance. And, when this backlash comes (and it will), don’t backtrack. If it truly aligns with what you stand for as a brand, stick with it.

Bud Light is a perfect example of this. After the company partnered with the transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, it sparked major backlash and boycotts from many of its customers. Despite this scrutiny, Bud Light stayed true to its values and stance on the issue.

Avoid bandwagoning – This refers to using social issues merely as a marketing ploy without meaningful action behind them. Ensure your brand’s commitment extends beyond lip service and is reflected in concrete initiatives and partnerships.

Striking a balance

While embracing social issues can be a powerful tool for connecting with consumers, brands must exercise caution and find the right balance. Not all social issues will seamlessly align with a brand’s identity or core values, and attempting to address every possible cause can dilute the brand’s message and authenticity.

Instead, the key lies in identifying the issues that genuinely resonate. Conducting thorough research and soliciting feedback from both internal stakeholders and the target audience can aid in identifying the most relevant and impactful causes.

Brands should consider partnering with reputable nonprofit organizations or dedicating resources to projects that directly address the identified issues. Transparency in these efforts is crucial, as consumers value authenticity.

While embracing social issues can be a compelling strategy for brand-consumer connection, it requires a careful and balanced approach. Brands must be selective about the causes they associate with, ensuring alignment with their core values.

When executed thoughtfully, brands can create a profound and lasting impact while strengthening their relationship with consumers who share their values.

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Christopher Tompkins

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September 12, 2023
Why Corporate Social Responsibility Matters in Executive Decision-Making | Entrepreneur
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Here’s a reality that can’t be denied: The notion of corporate success is being radically reshaped. The financial bottom line is no longer seen as the sole measure of a company’s achievement. In today’s connected, hyper-transparent world, there’s a growing call on CEOs and leaders to create sustainable, measurable value for shareholders and society.

This shift in mindset has led to the emergence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a significant factor in executive decision-making. CSR encompasses activities aimed at achieving social, environmental and economic benefits while encouraging ethical behavior. Executives who fail to integrate CSR into their decision-making fabric run the risk of alienating stakeholders, damaging their brands, and eroding their competitive positions.

Related: 3 Tips for Making Social Responsibility a Priority at Your Startup

What is corporate social responsibility?

Here’s a question: Who does your company truly serve, and how?

The answer to this question is at the core of CSR — and may be a bit eye-opening when you consider your own organization. It’s no longer enough for a company to focus solely on generating profits and shareholder value; they must also consider their actions’ social, environmental, and economic impacts.

Corporate responsibility encompasses the idea that companies have a duty to their stakeholders — including shareholders, customers, suppliers, employees and society — to operate ethically and transparently.

CSR encompasses various initiatives, each of which is anchored by four key tenants:
1. Ethical functioning: Upholding ethical standards across all business operations, ensuring stakeholder fairness, integrity and respect.
2. Social equity: Fostering social inclusivity and development via diversity programs, support for disadvantaged communities and human rights advocacy.
3. Environmental stewardship: Adopting sustainable practices to lessen the company’s environmental impact through waste reduction, carbon emission control and investment in green energy
4. Community engagement: Participating in community betterment through philanthropy, volunteering, and local event sponsorship, contributing to a company’s external social responsibility profile.
While being viewed as a socially responsible business is an excellent growth strategy, there’s more to it than just a good PR move. Here are four reasons why every leader should emphasize corporate social responsibility within their organization:

1. Attracting and retaining talent

Potential employees are looking beyond attractive salaries and traditional benefits. They’re interested in their company’s values, seeking employers who share their commitment to positively impacting society.

Recent studies show that three-quarters of millennials are looking into a potential workplace’s environmental commitments when in the market for a job. And once on board, employees proud of their company’s CSR commitments tend to have higher engagement and loyalty, reducing turnover rates and boosting productivity.

2. Building a positive corporate culture

CSR initiatives foster a positive corporate culture. Employees feel valued when companies commit to ethical practices, invest in their wellbeing and engage in initiatives for society.

When your internal team is united and inspired by the same values, a positive company culture radiates to external stakeholders — customers, suppliers, partners, etc. This can lead to increased trust in your brand and stronger relationships with all those involved.

3. Strengthening community relations

Companies don’t exist in a vacuum — they’re part of broader communities. By investing in CSR initiatives, you also invest in the health, welfare and prosperity of the community around you.

This mutually beneficial relationship with the community builds trust and goodwill between your organization and its stakeholders, inspiring a more potent connection while helping create economic opportunity in the region you serve.

4. Enhancing investor attraction

Here’s another reality: CSR is a growing investor concern. Demonstrating a commitment can attract more investment, improve stock performance and increase market value. Rather than viewing CSR as an expense, it’s more effective to think of it as an investment in your organization’s future.

Related: 5 Steps to Creating Socially Conscious Projects That Matter

Practical steps to develop and implement CSR strategy from the top

Developing and implementing a CSR strategy isn’t just a matter of well-intentioned ideas. It requires a structured approach, starting from the very top of the organization:
1. Align CSR with your company’s vision and values: Before diving into specific CSR initiatives, take a step back and look at your current values. Can you easily align your CSR strategy with your company’s vision, mission and values to create an authentic message?
2. Conduct a stakeholder analysis: Identify and analyze the needs and expectations of your key stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors and the community. This will help you identify the CSR areas that are most relevant to your business and stakeholders.
3. Set clear and measurable goals: Set clear, measurable goals for your CSR strategy, just like any other business initiative. Track progress, adjust and aim for targets like environmental impact, employee diversity or community contributions.
4. Create a CSR team: Appoint a dedicated team or CSR officer to drive your CSR strategy. They’ll coordinate activities, monitor progress and maintain stakeholder dialogue — with the resources and authority to execute effectively.
5. Communicate and engage: Keeping communication channels open is critical to ace CSR. Keep stakeholders informed about CSR goals, initiatives and how far you’ve come. Engage them by inviting employees to volunteer, consulting customers on sustainability and including investors in ethical business discussions.
6. Evaluate and adjust: Assess and adjust CSR strategy by soliciting stakeholder feedback and gauging impact. Continuous improvement is key to a successful, long-term commitment.
Guide your company into a CSR future

As a leader, developing and maintaining a corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy is crucial to propel your company’s success. The more you know about the ups and downs of CSR — including the challenges and opportunities — the better equipped you are to spearhead CSR initiatives.

The goal is to make a sustainable, long-term CSR strategy that lives up to your stakeholders’ expectations and delivers measurable results, now and in the future. Don’t take any risks that could hinder your corporate success – instead, improve your initial strategy, evaluate, and remain flexible.
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Tim Madden

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July 31, 2023
Social Responsibility: The Unexpected Product of a NYC Chocolate Shop | Entrepreneur
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One of the oldest chocolate shops in New York City, Aigner Chocolates has been serving chocolate treats and other sweets for 93 years. When Rachel Kellner and her husband Mark Libertini bought and took over the store in 2015, they had to navigate how to preserve the store’s identity while also keeping it exciting for future generations.

Mark is a pastry chef and restaurateur, but as a former social worker, Rachel had no experience in the food industry. Rather than seeing her untraditional background as a mismatch, she used it to bring a new perspective to the store.

“Business is really all about networking. It’s all about building relationships, and I love doing that,” Rachel said. “As a therapist, that’s your role. A therapist-client relationship is based on the trust and safety that you build with your client.”

While the ownership is different, much of Aigner Chocolates is the same. Mark and Rachel use all of the same recipes as the original owners so customers eat the same classic chocolates they have been for years.

In terms of evolving the store, Rachel changed the branding, updated the website, and built a stronger online presence. She’s also single-handedly grown media relationships and written press releases.

“I built those relationships, and now it’s to the point where I’ll literally text my media contacts and say, ‘Hey, this is what’s going on,’ and I’ll pitch them stories,” Rachel said. “There are so many terrible things happening in the world that the news couldn’t go on if they didn’t have some lighthearted pieces, so we’re always able to provide that.”

While Rachel continues to expand Aigner Chocolates’s presence online and capitalize on media coverage, she still thinks the store’s strength lies in the in-person experience for customers. She prioritizes training her staff and treats them like family, which comes across in their interactions with customers.

For Yelp Community Manager Samantha B., the in-person experience will always be preferable to ordering Aigner Chocolates online. She loves coming into the store due to the relationships the staff has built with her over the years.

“I’m a people person to begin with, so it’s always really nice to just walk into a brick and mortar and see a smiling face.” Samantha said. “We got so comfortable during the pandemic just sitting behind a screen, but I’m just not that person.”

In addition to treating all walk-ins as valued customers, Aigner Chocolates engages the community by frequently giving back to local charities and organizations, such as the Queens Center for Progress and a local hospital.

Rachel sees these efforts as a way to combine her social work background with her new experience in the food industry. During the pandemic, the shop donated chocolate totalling around $30,000 in value. Now, Rachel sets a donation budget and selects local organizations whose values align with her business.

“We’ve been gifted this incredible opportunity to run this business, to carry on a tradition, and it’s my husband and my social responsibility to spread joy,” Rachel said. “We’ve really taken that on in every way that we can, and we just try and find ways to do that.”

Other creative strategies to engage the community from Aigner Chocolates include:
- Host community events. Aigner Chocolates frequently hosts fundraisers with local schools and organizations. Hosting these events is a great way to raise awareness for both your business and causes you care about.
- Hire local community members. Rachel frequently hires students from local high schools and partners with local universities to give college students internship opportunities. By offering jobs and professional development opportunities, you can grow your small business’s ties to the community.
- Treat customers like family. As a longstanding business, staff at Aigner Chocolates ensure that old and new customers alike feel welcomed. Prioritizing customer service helps every customer feel like a valued part of the community and creates loyal patrons.
Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Rachel and Samantha, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.

Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud.
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Emily Washcovick

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June 29, 2023
6 Ways Your Company Will Benefit From Better Community Involvement | Entrepreneur

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Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Small business owners and entrepreneurs often have a long list of things to get accomplished, and while there are seemingly not enough hours in a day, making time for community involvement should be a priority.

The power to make a positive impact through community involvement translates to benefits for the business, customers, employees and the community.

Here are some of the impactful benefits which accrue from business community involvement.

1. Creates a positive workplace culture

Ingraining community involvement in company culture creates a happier workplace. Prioritizing volunteerism and social responsibility has a positive impact on employees, improving their morale and increasing job satisfaction. According to research by Boston College, “employees with favorable perceptions of their organization’s corporate citizenship tend to experience higher levels of self-efficacy, hope and optimism about work.”

Community involvement also improves company culture by helping to build strong teams. A study on volunteerism found that 92% of employees believe volunteer activities through work develop their people and teamwork skills, and 77% believe they strengthen relationships.

In short, giving back to the community increases engagement in an organization, which creates a positive workplace culture.

Related: 5 Easy Ways to Make Philanthropy Part of Your Company Culture

2. Cultivates customer trust

Authentically and consistently showing care for and involvement in the community builds the trust necessary for creating a loyal customer base.

Customers trust businesses that care about the community they serve.

When consumers believe that a business is truly invested in the community, they become more connected to that company. The positive perception fostered by giving back to the community increases customer trust, making it easy for consumers to support a business that is involved in the community over one that is not.

3. Attracts and retains talent

Employees today want to work for a company that gives back to the community. In fact, one survey points to community involvement as a powerful recruiting tool. More than 80% of company respondents in the survey reported that community involvement helps improve the ability to recruit employees and reduce turnover.

There is no question that community involvement helps companies attract and retain millennial and Gen Z employees who now make up nearly half (46%) of the full-time workforce in the U.S. These generational cohorts want the companies they work for to lead the way in giving back to the community.

Related: How Growing Businesses Can Prioritize Community Involvement

4. It helps the community thrive

Thriving communities are hubs for thriving businesses. Giving back to the community helps develop the community which is great for those living there and equally great for businesses located there.

It creates a kind of symbiotic relationship that is beneficial to everyone. By investing time and money in the community, businesses can help address community problems and needs and spur economic growth.

5. It’s easy to give back

There are many ways for business owners and entrepreneurs to give back to their communities. It’s easy to become involved in the community by volunteering and encouraging employees to volunteer themselves, sponsoring a sports team, organizing food drives, funding a scholarship and partnering with a nonprofit organization.

A great way to identify community involvement projects is to ask employees and customers about community needs and how the company can be most impactful in providing time, resources or money (or all of the above) to help.

Related: The Power of Giving Back: How Community Involvement Can Boost Your Bottom Line

6. Giving back is good business

Entrepreneurs recognize that giving back to the community is good business.

A survey examining the philosophies, attitudes and activities of entrepreneurs related to their communities found that 91% of entrepreneurs are currently engaging their communities outside of their business responsibilities, and 44% say their businesses have grown as a result of engaging their communities. The majority of entrepreneurs surveyed stated that their motivations to engage the community centered around personal values and passion.

The bottom line is that community involvement is the right thing to do. Business owners and entrepreneurs should lead by example, demonstrating a passion and commitment to the well-being of the communities they serve. Amazing benefits will accrue from there.

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Austin Mac Nab

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March 13, 2023
U.S. Hunger Announces 2022 Hunger Hero Awards Recipients
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Press Release
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Jan 24, 2023 08:00 EST
ORLANDO, Fla., January 24, 2023 (Newswire.com)
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U.S. Hunger (USH), a national nonprofit, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Hunger Hero Awards:
- Grassroots Hero Award – Chick-fil-A, Tampa Bay
- Service Hero Award – 9/11 Day
- Culture Hero Award – Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando
- Community Hero Award – College H.U.N.K.S Hauling Junk & Moving
- Lifeline Hero Award – Citi
- Health Hero Award – Ascension: Healthcare
- Volunteer Hero Award – Atlanta Hawks & State Farm
- Innovative Hero Award – JPMorgan Chase & Co.
The Hunger Hero Awards is an annual tradition that honors organizations working towards food security and other determinants of health. This award ceremony is the first since 2018, after a brief pandemic hiatus. The nonprofit will be honoring its 2022 recipients virtually this week.

“Whether hosting meal-packing events in their communities, sponsoring boxes of food for families in need, or investing in our data-analytics system, these organizations embody the core values of corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Each recipient has taken a bold stance against food and nutritional inequity and plays an active role in the betterment of their communities. We’re excited to bring back our Hunger Hero Awards and share all the good they’ve done,” said Rick Whitted, CEO of USH.

The recipients will be recognized during the live-streamed Hunger Hero Awards on Jan. 25 at 10:00 am EST. Register for the free event at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-hunger-hero-awards-tickets-503742075107.

To stay informed about the 2023 Hunger Hero Awards, returning in person later this year, sign up for USH’s newsletter: https://ushunger.org/newsletter

U.S. Hunger has activated more than 850,000 volunteers to distribute over 150 million meals across the globe. USH addresses hunger by engaging volunteers, educating on the root causes of food insecurity, and creating access to nutritious meals for low-income families and individuals. The organization has distributed meals in 53 countries and every state of the U.S. (including Puerto Rico).

Learn more at https://ushunger.org/.

Source: U.S. Hunger
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January 24, 2023
dlivrd to Partner With Ecologi as Part of Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives
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As a part of its long-term corporate social responsibility plan, dlivrd announces a new strategic partnership with Ecologi, a Bristol, UK-based environmental organization

Press Release
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Dec 9, 2022 14:00 EST
HORSHAM, Pa., December 9, 2022 (Newswire.com)
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dlivrd, an international white-label delivery service provider, is announcing a new strategic partnership with Ecologi, a B Corp certified environmental organization, to fund reforestation efforts and offset mileage accumulated on a monthly basis from independently-contracted Earning Partners.

“We acknowledge our growing responsibility to proactively monitor and mitigate environmental implications with our rapidly-expanding company. Therefore, we look forward to partnering with Ecologi to put dlivrd on the path toward climate positivity in the new year. Aligning with partners that share our values is the core of our corporate social responsibility mission,” says Founder & CEO Chris Heffernan. dlivrd’s first donation covered November’s mileage equivalent to 40 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, and 8,500 trees (equivalent to 100 trees in each of their 85 markets). Their Ecologi profile can be viewed here.

dlivrd’s partnership with Ecologi to address carbon footprint is a major launching point of their corporate social responsibility initiative to be fully implemented come Q1 of 2023. Below is dlivrd’s corporate social responsibility mission statement and related pillars:

Mission Statement: Our mission at dlivrd is to balance the byproducts of our deliveries by taking responsible, sustainable actions aimed at improving the world around us.

Social Responsibility Pillars:
1. Align with partners that share our core values.
2. Proactively monitor and mitigate any potential negative consequences that may arise from our rapid growth.
3. Continuous commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for our dlivrd team and all partners.
4. Don’t lose local. Support small businesses, organizations, and the communities in which we operate.
About dlivrd: Founded in 2018 by CEO Chris Heffernan with a primary focus on catering delivery, dlivrd has operations in 85 markets across the U.S. and Canada with offices in Pennsylvania and California. dlivrd is a full-service logistics platform, matching restaurant partners’ catering orders with thousands of independently-contracted Earning Partners. In addition to their long-standing partnership with ezCater, dlivrd has satisfied direct restaurant clients in Tacodeli, Cosi, Qdoba, honeygrow, and Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse, among others.

Connect with dlivrd on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Source: dlivrd
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December 9, 2022