Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business model that helps an organization be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public. By practicing corporate social responsibility, also called corporate citizenship, companies can be conscious of the impact they are having on all aspects of society, including economic, social, and environmental.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce views corporate social responsibility as more than “talking the talk.” We have made significant strides to serve as a gold standard for our members and the business community at large by substantively and meaningfully engaging in ongoing efforts to make our world safer and more sustainable.
SUSTAINABILITY
Over the past few years, Greater Rochester Chamber has convened a series of meetings, events and roundtables focused on all aspects of sustainability in business.
Recently, our team has been engaged in the AMPED initiative, previously Go All Electric, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2027. Moving Rochester to an all-electric energy model is an important step toward this goal. The portion of the grid that includes Upstate New York is the cleanest in the nation – 91% fossil fuel free according to the NYS Independent System Operator (NYSISO). The level of success we have already achieved underscores the value of all additional support, and we consistently work to encourage our members to support such initiatives.
In addition, Greater Rochester Chamber actively works to support the expansion of hydrogen technology. Our region has a strong infrastructure and Greater Rochester Chamber is proud to be the convener for several initiatives in this space. We will continue pushing for additional investment in this technology, highlighting benefits to our economy, to our workforce development efforts, and to the environment.
GIVING BACK
Greater Rochester Chamber and its affiliates are proud to lead and participate in a number of initiatives designed to give back to our community. We are proud supporters of the United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, and were recently awarded their 2021 Excellence Award for delivering remarkable results in a workplace campaign despite unprecedented community challenges. Our team has has 100% participation for the past 14 years, and regularly exceeds our fundraising goals. We also partner with the United Way on the yearly Pencils & Papers school supply drive through Jewish Family Service.
The Small Business Council Thanksgiving Food Drive has provided the cash equivalent of over $1,250,000 in food supplies to families for over 20 years.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce launched its Chamber IMPACT program to promote volunteerism and community service among its members. Greater Rochester Chamber member organizations and local not-for-profits are encouraged to submit their own volunteer opportunities including work details, board positions, or anywhere else that needs a helping hand.
EDUCATION
We know that the better equipped our members are with up-to-date information and insights, the better decisions they can make not only for themselves, but for our world. That's why Greater Rochester Chamber continues to offer programming around efforts like Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as well as sustainability, CSR, and other related topics.
Have a question or suggestion?
Or want to share how your organization is owning corporate social responsibility?