No Better Time To Do Good

Ashoka's been busy. In addition to partnering with Staples Foundation to host a Youth Social Entrepreneurship Competition, we also just read that they’re partnering with Nike to reward programs across the world that promote social change through women's sports. Ashoka, a nonprofit that empowers social entrepreneurs, and other similar nonprofits are creating the kind of positive change that makes people feel good in this type of business climate. And Nike and Staples are wisely taking advantage of it. It seems more and more obvious that in these tough economic times, when people are trying to find meaning in their work and their lives, that brands are becoming more socially responsible in order to help their public perception and increase their value.

Here at Topics, we've been pleased to have a busy start to 2009 and have realized that despite the tough economic conditions, organizations are following through on their social responsibility efforts and educational programs. We’ve talked to a lot of folks who are committed to continuing these efforts and we like to think this is a good sign for the economy and humanity as a whole. Some of the projects we've been working on include -

• Creating a website curriculum for Microsoft, found at MyBytes.com, that helps students better understand creative rights
• Continuing work with the Sci Fi Channel (including a presentation at TED) on its public affairs campaign, Visions For Tomorrow
• Modifying a financial education curriculum for Citi to include "green" tips that are both good for the wallet and the planet
• Creating meaningful financial resources targeting youth for GenerationEngage
• Developing a multimedia website and curriculum for the Outdoor Foundation that helps mentors feel more comfortable leading youth in outdoor activities and ultimately encourages more young people to get outside
  

So, we do know that there is a lot of good going on around the world, and with the economic crisis dominating all our media outlets, it's the perfect time to spread the word about it, just as Tonya Garcia explains in her PRWeek article "Tough Times Boost Appetite for Good News." And if you aren't doing anything good, perhaps now is a great time to consider it. Amongst the doom and gloom of the economy, it's a perfect time to stand apart and give people something to feel good about. Not only does it help our mindsets, but it impacts the quality of life of our communities and it helps the bottom line.