Many companies continually try to improve their relationships with the public with a number of firms implementing social responsibility efforts to give back to their communities. To highlight these efforts by companies all over the globe, one group has declared February 22 Corporate Philanthropy Day and will host a number of events in New York City to increase giving among companies.
CPD is the brainchild of the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy, an organization founded by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. According to the organization, there are 175 members in the CECP who attempt to raise philanthropy and sustained corporate giving among businesses.
Members of companies like Alcoa, Capital One and Intel will be involved in the day’s activities and started off Corporate Philanthropy Day by ringing the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange today to highlight their corporate giving.
The power of giving is not something lost on President Barack Obama, who sent a letter to the organization last month pointing out that it’s more important than ever for the private sector to get involved in what’s going on in their communities.
"Today’s challenges demand solutions that come not only from government, but also from entrepreneurs and business leaders around the world," wrote the president in the letter. "Through their skills, ingenuity, financial support, and dedication, corporate philanthropists and their employees have answered the call to serve, giving back in meaningful ways that help those in need and improve our communities."
A report released in November 2009 from the CECP points out that corporate giving is on the rise, even as the economy is falling. According to the Giving in Numbers report from the organization, most companies increased giving between 2007 and 2008 even while 68 percent of them say profit declined.