Is corporate social responsibility a trend?

Across the country, companies are increasingly allocating resources to social causes, aligning themselves with the social, economic and environmental interests of their stakeholders. What’s behind this new social responsibility? Is it pure altruism or just another form of public relations? Next Wednesday, Sandy Dochen, Manager, Corporate Citizenship and Corporate Affairs for IBM; Tracy Walker, Director of Brand Management & Community Engagement at Clear Channel Radio; and Laurie Loew, Give Realty join a panel moderated by Eugene Sepulveda to discuss how today’s businesses are doing well by doing good.

Early registration ends today. Snag these great prices!

To get a sneek peak into their thoughts, we asked Eugene, Tracy and Laurie to answer the following questions. Sandy was unable to contribute due to travel.

 

Q1: Why is corporate social responsibility an important topic for communicators right now?

Laurie: It’s a great story that connects people on a different level.  It goes beyond business and helps define how the company impacts the community outside of job creation and revenue.

Eugene: I’m not sure using the frame of responsibility is especially productive. Instead, let’s find mutually beneficially opportunities. Wall Mart saved over $200 million with green initiatives reducing packaging and transportation costs; Johnson & Johnson has saved over $200 million promoting wellness among its employees.

Why is either important? Because none of us operate in isolation – we need robust, growing markets, well-trained employees, reliable suppliers, shareholders willing to invest.

Tracy: In today’s world, companies must connect with customers via a common cause or passion. A company or brand must stand for something, be known for something other than the product to resonate with consumers.

Q2: What causes do you personally support and why?

Laurie: I give my time, talent and treasure to organizations which encourage and support entrepreneurship and social innovation.

Eugene: Steven Tomlinson (my husband) and I support a wide range of causes, including arts organizations, LGBT equality, low income economic development in Austin, Marfa & internationally and our church. Plus, we’re very active political donors and volunteers believing government has a significant role promoting equality, economic development, education and healthcare. I serve on President Obama’s national finance committee and as national co-chair of his LGBT Leadership Council.

Tracy: The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, because one woman dying of breast cancer is too many. This year in Central Texas, 1,300 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 170 will die. Mobile Loaves & Fishes, because it is important to recognize the homeless and those in need as human beings, our neighbors.

What: AWC Austin May Luncheon
When: May 18, 2011  11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: The University of Texas Club at Darrell Royal Stadium  Get directions

To register, visit our website. www.awcaustin.org