Consultant: strategy, social enterprise, partnerships

For many corporate leaders, it is not a question of whether to engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR), but rather how to do this in the most effective way a way that not only maximizes corporate value, but also social value. This article draws lessons from corporate engagement to advance community economic development (CED), examining innovative corporate engagement strategies, and ways in which social impact can be captured, communicated, and enhanced.… Continue

Social Return on Investment (SROI) attempts to capture the blended value generated by investments into social or community ventures. The approach uses the tools of cost-benefit analysis to assess the return of these investments. Applied to corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, SROI can be an important tool to demonstrate the social impact of corporate investments into communities.… Continue

The Home Depot Canada has formed a unique partnership with Habitat for Humanity Canada that allows both organizations to lever their respective strengths. Habitat for Humanity provides affordable housing solutions, and The Home Depot associates (employees) assist in building the housing in partnership with low-income families. As part of a broader partnership built on financial and in-kind contributions, Home Depot s employee volunteer program has generated significant corporate impact and commu… Continue

Franchising models can be adapted to address important social issues. Social hiring allows businesses to tap into job-ready and qualified segments of the population through community agencies. The benefits to employees, the corporation, and the community can be substantial. These benefits can be even more significant when social franchising efforts are replicated or scaled-up.… Continue

The Co-operators is committed to building sustainable communities through corporate giving. Through the establishment of Community Economic Development (CED) Funds, they have strategically invested in CED through their CSR efforts. Strategic philanthropy through this community investment initiative has resonated positively with the organization's stakeholders.… Continue