Creating prosperous communities through corporate responsibility

This Case Study highlights how Australians are increasingly becoming involved in environmental and social issues. These issues are reported in the media almost daily and are becoming an important part of our nation’s future.

Through Corporate Responsibility (CR) programs, such as those established by global professional services firm, Ernst & Young, organisations and their employees are able to make noticeable differences to the communities in which they live. The benefits of these programs are far reaching. Not only does the community prosper but the organisation and its staff also benefit.

By reading this Case Study, students should be able to:

• Understand the concept of Corporate Responsibility (CR)
• Outline the need for an organisation to give back to the community  
• Explain ways employees are able to be involved in socially responsible initiatives through their employer

Introduction

Corporate Responsibility (CR) is a concept which sees organisations taking responsibility for the people they engage with, and the communities and environment in which the organisation operates.

Responsible business

There are many advantages for businesses in being a responsible corporate citizen.

Active citizenship

Active citizenship is an ethical philosophy based around the idea that members of an organisation (or a society) have certain responsibilities to uphold in return for the benefits conferred on them.

Benefits for the community

Corporate responsibility programs offer tremendous benefits for the community.

Benefits for an organisation

Commitment to a corporate responsibility program helps staff become motivated employees while adding to their skills at the same time.

Conclusion

An effective Corporate Responsibility program encourages responsible business practice across the four key management areas of environment, the community, the workplace and the marketplace.