February 18, 2009

Examples Needed

I've posted a few times recently about theories - mine and other peoples' - of how companies are likely to adjust their CSR in light of the economic climate. I'd now like to move beyond the hypothetical to dig up some empirical examples. Can anyone pass on information about companies taking any of the following actions?
  • Cutting back on CSR activities in recent months
  • Stepping up CSR commitments
  • Not making any changes, but discussing the economy in their rationale for maintaining their program (e.g., saying they are facing tough times but are maintaining their commitment due to significant need in the community or citing a positive impact on their core business)

I really appreciate any examples you can provide - if you don't want to post here, feel free to email me at ReimagingCSR (at) gmail (dot) com.

Thanks!

Posted by at

2 comments:

  1. AnonymousFebruary 19, 2009 at 1:17 PM

    Hi, I'd love to hear the answers you come up with. I've been worried that we'll see a real cutback.

    Some thoughts here:

    http://sashadichter.wordpress.com/2009/01/28/the-corporate-social-responsibility-2-by-2/

    http://sashadichter.wordpress.com/2008/11/24/nike-corporate-social-responsibility-efforts-falling-short-skeptical-about-csr/

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousFebruary 19, 2009 at 3:43 PM

    Jessica: I think the most dramatic example I've heard is that of the GE Foundation.

    The company re-focused the Foundation's efforts at the end of last year, indicating an intent to provide $20 million in 2009 to organizations struggling as a result of the economic decline. As part of this they’ve created a food- and shelter-focused Matching Gifts program that will double employee and retiree contributions, and increased their donation to the United Way, earmarked for food and shelter services. Interesting stuff!

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)