I think your point about authenticity in corporate giving is so true. So many companies are jumping on the bandwagon with cause marketing partnerships, small grants, etc because in many ways it’s a “ticket to play” these days. But really genuine for-profit CSR programs (whether it’s philanthropy or environmental sustainability etc) go beyond just good corporate citizenship. These programs succeed because they reflect and promote the true company culture, value system and DNA of the business – not to mention being aligned with core competencies and products that the company sells. And in the end, this authenticity speaks directly to potential and current employees and customers, which only helps to reinforce the bottom line benefits as well.

I’m working in corporate philanthropy this summer and so these issues are particularly timely for me. Thanks for your post.
-Ashley