Corporate & Social Responsibility (CSR) and Rotary
For some time now it has been the ‘in’ thing for businesses to claim that they are able to demonstrate corporate and social responsibility. But can you really do this?
The Business Council for Sustainable Development defines Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as:
‘The continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large’
What does it involve?
Some of the common activities undertaken as part of CSR include:
- Consideration of issues such as:
- business ethics
- diversity and equal opportunities
- community investment and environment, including reducing energy, water and waste
- Giving aid to local organisations and communities in developing countries
- Helping to build the skills of the local people through community based development
- Supporting fundraising activities
- Offering volunteering opportunities, therefore raising awareness and providing learning and development activities
Most of the above attributes have been encapsulated in the ethics of Rotary International since 1902. Simply joining Rotary will enable many firms to further demonstrate their commitment by supporting their managers and executives in such a role.
The activities of Rotary are wide and various. They are too many to list them all here but they include international aid, local aid, work in the local community with both the elderly and the young, supporting disabled as well as granting scholarships for the very able and bright. Not least of the achievements is the virtual eradication of Polio worldwide although there is still some work to do. At the other end of the scale recently, members have formed rubbish collecting parties to clean up the environment. All of these and more fit very comfortably with CSR as defined above by the BCSD.
From a business point of view Rotary is an excellent opportunity to increase networking opportunities and do business with people who share the same high ethical standards and integrity. This is the reason that Rotary started back in the early 1900’s so the idea is not as new as some may think, however the Rotary outlook is modern, go ahead, and gets the job done.
If you want to join us there are opportunities for all vocations at management and executive level giving you the ability to participate and communicate with other members on a special basis in any town or city in any country in the world. Such opportunities to increase your profile are rare. This must be of benefit to all business and organisations.
To apply please contact the Club Secretary, Mr Nikos Paplomatas nikos@wesleymem.org.uk