The second annual MN Keystone Summer Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Series was a huge success! Designed and moderated by Increase Your Good, the series was created to support small and mid-sized businesses in developing and growing community impact programs. Over the course of three sessions, we delved into the world of CSR with topic overviews and expert panelists who offered real world examples of how their organizations are making a positive community impact. Here’s a little more about each session:
Intro to CSR: Building Purpose Programs in Small and Mid-sized Companies
The first session provided attendees with an overview of the core components of CSR programs including philanthropic giving, volunteerism and socially responsible business practices. In addition, we discussed the business case for investing in CSR: stronger brands, happier employees and innovative cultures. Our panel of CEO’s included Teresa Fudenberg, CEO, Storm Creek;
J Marie Fieger, CEO, Nemer Fieger; and Sally Mainquist, CEO & Co-Founder, Veritae. Each panelist shared their company’s unique approach to CSR, discussed how they sustain community investment through challenging economic times and how their community commitment has shaped their culture.
Employee Engagement & Volunteerism: Drive connection & belonging through meaningful employee volunteer programs
Our second CSR session took a deeper dive into employee volunteer programs, including the various models of volunteerism, how to drive employee engagement and what makes a meaningful partner from a nonprofit perspective. MK Racine, Social Responsibility Manager, Mortenson shared how Mortenson’s long history of community investment is reflected in the company’s culture and employee benefits, which provide employees time off to volunteer with the nonprofit of their choice in addition to company sponsored community service and learning opportunities. Pam Wandzel, Director, Pro Bono and Community Service, Fredrikson Byron talked about the positive impact on both employees and community organizations of the legal pro bono services Fredrikson Byron provides as part of its commitment to communities. Sophia Lenarz-Coy, Executive Director, The Food Group shared her organization’s approach to working with corporate volunteers, and how companies can move beyond one-time events to build stronger relationships and deeper impact with nonprofit partners. To learn more about the Food Group’s mission to fight hunger and nourish communities, visit: https://www.thefoodgroupmn.org
Advancing Racial Justice and Equity through CSR
Our series ended with an inspiring panel of leaders working to build equitable, anti-racist communities. Kathie Eiland-Madison, Chief Engagement & Inclusion Officer, Delta Dental shared how Delta Dental’s approach to equity is embedded throughout the organization, from their philanthropic investments to procurement and leadership development. Tony Hudson, President of Racially Conscious Collaboration, provided insight into where companies struggle with DEI efforts and what can be done to build the emotional muscle and skills to move a DEI strategy forward. Emily Hunt Turner, CEO, All Square & The Legal Revolution, provided background into the legal systems that have contributed to racial inequities in employment practices and how The Legal Revolution is working to create equitable pathways to employment and stability for formerly incarcerated individuals.
The Increase Your Good team is grateful for the opportunity to have connected with passionate individuals who share our commitment to creating a better world. To learn more about how we help businesses do better by doing good, reach out to Annie and schedule a 30 minute intro session. We look forward to connecting!
