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Companies have long been involved in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit
organizations over the years. But an increased and intensified commitment to social
responsibility has emerged more recently. Part of this may be the result of recent
studies indicating that 70 percent of millennials will spend more with brands that are
engaged with giving back.

Firms are taking inventory of their values and redefining how they support their communities in a variety of ways. The range of participation includes environmental issues, health, education, family, the arts, business, youth empowerment, employment, supporting the disadvantaged, sports, and travel just to name a few.

J. Crew recently launched a campaign called #meetmycrew that provides a $10,000 donation to you and your charity when you submit a winning photo and story behind the cause. They have featured six nonprofit groups so far: Brooklyn United, City Growers, Save the Waves, Girls Inc., Sean Casey Animal Rescue, and Creative Mornings. Their story continues with a focus on their J. Crew team in stores, highlighting exceptional members from several states who are “compassionate leaders” in their roles.

Smart, distinct, and engaged in their community.

Simply said, Well done. Beyond making meaningful contributions to their communities, organizations who participate in social awareness efforts also reap the rewards of positive employee morale, stronger cultural values, enhanced new marketing alignments, as well as tax deductions. I would also add that in the age of social media, these efforts advance the credibility of joining “conversations” on a variety of important issues.

“ . . . to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson