Winner: American Institute of CPAs
When the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) relocated to Durham, NC, in August 2006, its execs were determined to become a leader in corporate citizenship. Working with
CAPSTRAT, a Raleigh-based agency, they inaugurated a program that would raise AICPA's profile in their newly adopted community while setting out a series of CSR initiatives.
"Its goal was to make a tangible difference in the lives of residents," says Melora Heavey of AICPA.
Teaming Up
Forging partnerships with local organizations was key; for example, AICPA became a corporate sponsor of The Volunteer Center of Durham, an organization dedicated to pairing
volunteer resources with nonprofit causes and events. This and other actions led Durham's mayor to proclaim July 24, 2007, "Volunteer Center of Durham Day."
In addition to its new partnerships, AICPA became active in community outreach and donations. Among the organizations that benefited from AICPA's generosity were the Durham
Arts Guild, the Carolina Theater and the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival.
As a result of this program, AICPA's outreach activities have generated approximately 40 local print and broadcast stories, and 100 employees have volunteered in numerous
community programs.
For Heavey, the main lesson was follow-through, which she feels is critical to the program's success. "It's clear AICPA made the right decision to move to Durham. Our
community engagement is AICPA's way of saying thank you."