Corporate social responsiblity
Meet your CSR goals with a United way Shared purpose program
Top organizations use corporate social responsibility as a strategic differentiator to attract and retain the best talent and to meet their customer’s demand for social responsibility.
Studies show that purpose-driven companies produce higher revenue, recruit and retain higher-performing talent, improve employee engagement and performance, and have higher values associated with their brand. Let us help you join them.
United Way of Rhode Island helps companies develop and achieve their corporate social responsibility goals. Achieving a stronger, more vibrant and prosperous community is our shared purpose. Companies partnering with United Way through shared purpose co-create greater value through impact, engagement and reputation.
Doing good and doing well
Organizations with well-developed corporate social responsibility programs reap many benefits, including:
Attracting and retaining the best employees
According to Harvard Business Review, social responsibility is one of the top five intangible benefits that potential employees look for when evaluating job opportunities. In fact, 79% of people prefer to work for a socially responsible company.
Building stronger leaders
Human resources professionals overwhelmingly agree (90%) that pro-bono volunteering is an effective way to develop leadership skills.
Creating more loyal customers
Consumers are increasingly steering business toward companies that are socially responsible. According to a 2015 Cone study, 90% of global consumers are likely to switch brands to one associated with a good cause, given comparable price and quality.
Building goodwill in their communities
Building strong ties in the communities in which they do business can help an organization weather storms and build loyalty.
For companies of any size
United Way of Rhode Island’s relationship with the state, corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors uniquely positions us to provide insights, solutions, networks and consulting services that bring value to companies of all sizes.
- For small to mid-sized companies, Shared Purpose represents the ability to effectively outsource their CSR to an expert who can help them level-up quickly.
- For large companies, it adds depth and scale to the impact they make around the world. All while supporting their bottom line and business plan.
We have been partnering with small and mid-sized businesses who want to have a greater impact with their charitable giving for 95 years. United Way makes it easy to get involved – no matter the size of your company — with turn-key programs including volunteerism, sponsorship, leadership opportunities, networking and workplace giving programs. We tailor your experience so that you and your employees can have a direct impact on the things you care about most.
Corporate Social Responsibility Consulting
Partner with United Way of Rhode Island to identify, analyze, activate, and communicate your impact in the communities where you live and work.
Whether to support your community, foster a culture of service with your team, or simply enhance your brand, United Way of Rhode Island offers tools and strategies to create effective CSR practices.
United Way Rhode Island will help:
- Mapping your CSR vision
- Storytelling and crafting your CSR message
- Activating your company’s social purpose and CSR activities
- Implementing focused and strategic programs in impact giving, employee engagement, and brand and reputation elevation
- Social impact measurement and reporting
Ready to learn more? Contact Sylvia Mburu at sylvia.mburu@unitedwayri.org.
United Way and Your CSR
Partnering with United Way of Rhode Island is an effective way to engage with the community, meet corporate social responsibility goals, and show the community that your company cares.
Impact
Engagement
Reputation
United Way to Release RFP Friday for “United Is The Way” Safety Net Grants for Nonprofits Providing Critical Services to Rhode Islanders
With a priority to expand support for nonprofits and families amid growing federal uncertainty, United Way of Rhode Island is set to release a request for proposals (RFP) on Friday for new safety net grants through its “United Is The Way” initiative. (more…)
United Way: 211, Point programs save R.I. $1.2M in reduced nonemergency 911 calls
United Way of Rhode Island Inc.’s 211 and Point programs significantly reduced the state’s financial burden on nonemergency calls to 911 and to other state agencies in 2024, the organization said on Feb. 11 at the Statehouse. (more…)
United Way is Increasing Support of Nonprofits and Families Amid Federal Uncertainty, New Safety Net Grants Will be Made Available
“United Is The Way” will focus on expanding the services and supports available to local organizations and Rhode Islanders, and a special round of funding for nonprofit. (more…)
United Way Accelerates $1.5 Million in Grant Payments to Support Rhode Island Nonprofits Amid Funding Uncertainty
Recognizing the urgency of the financial strain facing local nonprofits, United Way of Rhode Island is taking a major step to provide timely critical support to its funded partners. The organization has released more than $1.5 million in grant payments nearly three months ahead of schedule, delivering early disbursements to 41 nonprofits across the state.
United Way Hosts 13th Children’s Book Drive
United Way of Rhode Island’s Children’s Book Drive is back! In April and May, we’re teaming up with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home. Join us by buying and shipping books, dropping off books at one of our collection sites, or hosting a drive.
United Way Honors Local Champions at 98th Annual Celebration
It’s been a year of creating a stronger, more equitable Rhode Island, and as United Way used its 98th Annual Celebration to cast light on the change made possible when our community works together, the organization also honored local champions who have gone above and beyond in service.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Making Money Work: Understanding Investments Workshop
Join Emerging Leaders as we hear from a panel of expert financial advisors on the key things young professionals need to know about investments. Together, we’ll think about what investing is, how it works, and what some things are that young professionals should keep in mind as they think about investing as a tool for building wealth.
https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135393039
Advocacy 101
Wednesday June 4th 5pm via Zoom (in person TBD)
Led by Peggy Desjarlais, Program Officer, Policy & Advocacy
Ready to make a difference? Join us for Advocacy 101, a dynamic training designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to effectively advocate for the causes you care about. Learn how to share your story, engage with policymakers, and drive meaningful change in your community. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your skills, this training will empower you to amplify your voice and take action. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a stronger advocate for the issues that matter most!
https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135373834