It’s becoming more critical than ever for businesses to have a strong social conscience. Not only does it benefit society, it boosts employee morale and customer loyalty.
Making a positive impact can be one of the most rewarding aspects of anyone’s career. When businesses are mindful of their social and environmental impact, they can contribute to finding solutions to everyday issues and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Businesses can make a real difference by giving back to the community, supporting philanthropic causes, and providing positive social value. Corporate leaders must take responsibility and encourage employees to participate in these efforts.
Giving back attracts top talent
Getting involved in charitable and philanthropic efforts not only allows us to illustrate that we are good stewards within the communities where we do business, but it also has the added impact of creating a better workplace for the people who work for us.
People want to believe that where they work is making a difference. Creating that environment has a measurable upside. Nearly 60% of employees who say they are proud of their company’s social responsibility are more engaged and more likely to be retained.
Encouraging employees to get involved in their communities strengthens their bonds with each other, which can make for a stronger team. Rallying your team behind a common cause gives them a sense of pride in the company they represent and a connection to one another. But it also helps them create relationships outside your workplace.
Fostering relationships with others who give to similar causes doubles charitable efforts and opens the door to many networking opportunities for your employees. Finding other people within your business community with a similar drive helps lay the groundwork for meaningful relationships that last well into the future.
Building trust through empathy
At CBTS, encouraging community involvement is a great way to build trust and is the foundation of a culture of empathy and learning as corporate citizens. Engaging in community and philanthropic efforts allows us to showcase our values and demonstrate our deep commitment to making a positive impact in the places where we do business.
We genuinely believe that when we lead with our values, we demonstrate our authentic selves to our neighbors and the people who trust us to become our business partners.
How CBTS gives back
In addition to leading OnX Canada—CBTS’ sister company north of the U.S. border—I serve as chair of the board for Victim Services Toronto. VST provides trauma-informed support and advocacy to people who experience crime or sudden tragedy, helping people overcome trauma while working towards preventing violence through community engagement.
This incredibly important organization significantly impacts families affected by malicious activity in its many forms. I’m proud that CBTS and OnX Canada invested time and energy supporting VST. We also lead their annual charity drive, which helps them raise over $1 million.
As part of our efforts, OnX and its partner Cisco provide free Wi-Fi to nine shelters for houseless individuals in Toronto. This gives the shelter’s clients access to communications they need during a crisis and allows them to find resources, apply for jobs, and explore additional opportunities.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we worked with our partners to help Toronto provide free high-speed Internet to low-income residential communities so those without reliable access—specifically homes where children were learning remotely—could remain connected.
Other causes we support include Light the Night in the Maritimes, the Terry Fox Foundation, and the United Way Hurricane Fund in Nova Scotia. We believe that giving back to the community is a critical part of our mission, and we will continue to impact the lives of those we serve positively.
