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CSR 2010 Resolutions and Predictions From Business And Social Sector Leaders: Part I

18 January 2010:

The responses are eclectic, ranging from strategic to personal, including a poem and a personal story. I divided the responses into two posts; this is the first. I'll give my resolutions and predictions in a third post. Please share your own resolutions and predictions in the Comments section below.

The Question: What is your resolution or prediction for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in 2010?
"I want the world to understand that the future of this world lies in the hands of a 12 year old girl. She will either bear the next generation of poverty or presidents. If we can recognize the power of her potential to bring stability and prosperity to the world, we can start to make real progress in 2010."
Maria Eitel, President, Nike Foundation

"Three interrelated predictions: First, we will see the continued growth of what I call the empathy economy, which puts a premium on people over short-term profits. Second, digitally empowered consumers will demand corporations have purpose--ethical business models. Finally, my recent trips to Asia suggest that China, a rapidly growing consumer market with an enormous need for accountability, presents a huge opportunity for companies to develop ethical brands that consumers can trust."
Devin Stewart, Director, Global Policy Innovations, Carnegie Council

[Resolution] "To ensure that my team remains responsive to nonprofit organizations in this tough economic climate, while maintaining the focus of our company's philanthropy and employee engagement efforts on the areas of cultural heritage, leadership development and community service."
Timothy J. McClimon, President, American Express Foundation, and Vice President, CSR, American Express

"Businesses today better understand the importance of being an integral part of the broader community. With the start of a new year and a new decade, I hope that CSR efforts undertaken by firms in the US and globally, will advance to the next level. My resolution is that Clifford Chance attorneys will help lead this initiative with our pro bono work, volunteerism and non-profit board leadership."
Craig Medwick, Managing Partner for the Americas, Clifford Chance

"In 2010, I see growth for CSR: the best corporations will beef it up, fully integrating it into strategy. CSR will continue to evolve from its low point (cynical exercise in fig leaf placement) to higher ground (fundamental part of successful strategy). The incentives are compelling. Corporate leaders face a witches' brew of stockholder unrest, dependence on public largess (what happened to capitalism?) and social media-fuelled revelations about actual CSR results. Pragmatists will see reputational risk, adjust and CSR will benefit."