Discover how social responsibility, values-driven giving, and corporate purpose can shape identity, inspire community impact, and create lasting change.
Beyond Obligation: Living Your Values Through Social Responsibility
When reflecting on my own social responsibility and the footprint of my business, I often ask myself: Are we doing enough beyond what is simply required? How do our values-based giving practices reflect who we are at our core? In a world where purpose, transparency, and impact matter more than ever, it’s worth exploring how our choices, especially how and why we give shape to our legacy and define our identity.
“When you've worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you. You reach back and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed.” — Michelle Obama
The Awakening of Social Responsibility
We all contribute to society in some form through taxes, economic participation, and civic engagement. But are we genuinely connected to the concept of giving back? Do we reflect on our personal and professional responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the communities we serve?
Our awareness of corporate social responsibility is growing. Increasingly, individuals are drawn to businesses that don’t just offer great products or services, but also operate with purpose and a commitment to community impact. A 2023 Cone/Porter Novelli study revealed that 88% of consumers are more likely to buy from a company that leads with purpose, and nearly 70% want brands to support social and environmental issues. The message is clear: values-driven giving is no longer optional, it's expected.
Our Values Drive Socially Responsible Actions
As someone who facilitates emotional intelligence coaching and workshops, I consistently emphasize the importance of self-awareness, values, and social awareness. When we know what we stand for, we’re better equipped to give in a way that’s authentic and sustainable.
Values-driven giving is powerful because it aligns our inner beliefs with external actions. Whether it's volunteering, donating, mentoring, or using our businesses as platforms for good, every act of generosity reflects our identity and strengthens our connection to our community.
From a leadership perspective, corporate purpose isn’t just good for brand reputation, it’s essential for employee engagement and loyalty. Deloitte’s Global Millennial Survey found that younger generations are more loyal to companies whose values mirror their own, particularly those that prioritize ethical practices and meaningful community involvement.
Giving Back & Making a Difference
Here’s an excerpt from my book, Giving Back: How to Find Your Personal Joy and Make a Difference to Others, that speaks to the heart of this message:
Giving has been a huge part of my journey in life. From my earliest memories, it has shaped me as an individual and has brought me great joy. If doing something for others can enrich one's life, it is truly a win-win. I strongly believe that each of us needs to return, with a grateful heart, a portion of what has been given to us. When you give back, you are giving of yourself. In many ways, you are giving back the values others have given you. You are passing them on. Generations, hence, someone will be better off because of who you were and what you chose to do.”
It’s important to remember that generosity isn't always about money. Time, mentorship, skills, and advocacy are equally meaningful. Supporting a local initiative, mentoring someone in your field, or driving sustainable change within your organization, each one is a step toward building stronger, more compassionate communities.
How to Take Purposeful Action
-
Volunteer Your Skills: Use platforms like VolunteerMatch or Catchafire to share your expertise.
-
Support Ethical Brands: Choose to spend with businesses that prioritize social responsibility.
-
Start a Giving Circle: Team up with others to support a shared cause through pooled resources.
-
Educate & Inspire: Host conversations or workshops about purpose-driven leadership and values-based giving.
Are You Ready to Make a Difference?
We each can shape our identity through the way we give and the values we uphold. Take a few moments to reflect:
-
Are you doing all you can to uplift others in your workplace, community, or network?
-
What causes align most closely with your values and beliefs?
-
Is your organization walking the talk when it comes to corporate social responsibility?
Let’s lead with intention. Let’s give with purpose. And above all, let’s recognize that the heart of giving lies in knowing who we are and choosing to make a difference because of it.
This article was originally published on August 26, 2017, and has been updated (May 2025).
More Motivational Reads Here »
How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?
Sign up for monthly tips to build your Emotional Intelligence and reduce Emotional Hijacking!
