CSR – “Buzzword” or Essential Piece of the Puzzle?

It does seem the words "greening," "sustainability" and "corporate social responsibility" (CSR) have become a bit over-used. People can be heard using these terms simply as buzzwords to try and sound like they care, but there typically isn't much depth to what they are saying. It’s tough to pinpoint what the solution is to that because what's at the heart of it all is SO important, but it is worth exploring. Perhaps digging a bit deeper to consider how the organizations we are associated with can do more should be examined. 

Those of you who belong to professional or social organizations typically attend their annual meetings or conferences. Many of these organizations have their own Foundations through which they provide their members with scholarships and education to advance their careers. But what about also providing members and attendees with the opportunity to do more? Those gathered in large numbers for meetings, conferences, and conventions have a tremendous chance to also help the local communities where these events are being held or a charity that might not be supported otherwise. There is great value in meeting face-to-face and supporting communities and charities in the process is another way to show that value.

Consider suggesting to the boards and planners of these annual meetings and conferences that they select a different charity to support each year. If they give their membership a chance to vote on which they will support each year, it will give them even more exposure of the efforts to make a positive impact on the communities in which they are meeting. It could be as little as $5-10 per registration or even just getting one extra sponsor for your golf tournament or opening/closing parties. Providing a charity sponsor-level exposure will also help with their visibility, which does not have a price tag, but still provides great value to that organization.

If we all continue to be creative about our social responsibility, more and more organizations that greatly need support will also be helped! Let's keep what's important in perspective.

- Megan Powers, VOC Director of Development & Communications