My new sparked interest in Corporate Social Responsibilty

I have always wanted to do PR for a non-profit organization, but I have now discovered another possible career choice.... corporate social responsibility.

Corporate social responsibility in a nutshell is companies doing good will towards society and providing more than just their product but also something to help the community in which they are a part of. Considering the economic state, companies are fighting for business and need more than advertising, they need to show society that their corporation is giving back during these tough times and earn trust and respect from the customers.

            McDonalds has mastered the art of social responsibility, especially with the well-known Ronald McDonald House. For nearly 35 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities have been creating, finding and supporting programs that directly improve the health and well being of nearly 3.7 million children worldwide every year. The organization helps families in serious times of need like finding housing for families near hospitals so they are able to stay near and support a hospitalized child, helping families afford staying together in another city while a child is undergoing treatment, or even getting basic medical and dental care in an underserved community.

McDonalds has a tab on there website titled, “Good Works.” This page tells of how McDonalds gives back. This quote on their site summarizes McDonalds' view on social responsibility, “We all have a duty to act responsibly. To do good. Participate in the lives of others. It’s about taking pride in the world we live in, and dealing with the important issues. It’s about being there for us.” Mcdonalds puts forth a noticeable effort to be involved in the community and earn the trust of their customers, not just by serving healthier menu options but also giving time and money to a large number of charities.

I would be more willing to work for a company I know is socially responsible than one that is not. Perhaps this concept will spill over and encourage individuals to give a helping hand in their own community.