Louise Mathieu
Maxime Boulland
Ava Rice
St. John's University
Charles Wankel
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Doing Good Works is a social enterprise and a certified benefit corporation that transforms the branded merchandise industry by focusing on products made with recycled and eco-friendly materials. The business also includes a give-back component to support young adults impacted by the foster system. This approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly goals related to responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10), by promoting environmental sustainability and social equity through their business practices.
Doing Good Works has innovated the promotional products industry by insisting that every item they offer has a tangible social or environmental give-back. Founded in California in 2014, the company applies a 10-20-30 model for social impact: 10% of top-line revenue is reinvested in job readiness training and other support for young adults from the foster system, 20% of employee work time is dedicated to volunteering, and at least 30% of their workforce comprises individuals with lived foster care experiences. This model ensures that their operations contribute directly to social good while also promoting sustainable products. Their certification as a Benefit Corporation in 2018 solidifies their commitment to these values and holds them accountable to high standards of purpose, accountability, and transparency in business.
The inspiration behind Doing Good Works came from the personal experiences and revelations of its co-founders Scott and Jordan. Scott was motivated by the dismal outcomes for youth in the foster care system that his wife, a court-appointed special advocate (CASA), exposed him to. Jordan's motivation came from his own adoption story, which contrasted sharply with the less fortunate paths of his siblings who remained in the system. "There's no way that only 3% will graduate college or 50% will end up homeless and 75% incarcerated. That's just absurd. There's no way," Scott initially thought, highlighting the shocking statistics that propelled him into action.
A pivotal moment for Doing Good Works was their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They pivoted from branding to supply chain solutions to provide 20 million FDA-certified medical-grade face masks to a major healthcare organization. This initiative not only kept healthcare workers safe but also demonstrated the company's adaptability and commitment to societal needs beyond their regular business model. Their efforts in sustainability and social impact have also led them to reject business opportunities that don't align with their ethos, such as products that are not environmentally friendly or lack a social give-back component. This stringent adherence to their values underscores the long-term effects of their innovation: promoting sustainable consumption and production while supporting vulnerable populations.
Since its inception, Doing Good Works has demonstrated significant growth and impact. With around 26 employees and the ability to scale up for large projects through partnerships with nonprofits, the company has effectively utilized its business model to create jobs and support community initiatives. Their innovative approach to merchandise, emphasizing recycled materials and products with a social give-back, has not only raised awareness about sustainable practices but also opened new markets interested in responsible branding. As a result, Doing Good Works has fostered a culture of social responsibility, enhanced employee well-being through meaningful work, and contributed to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and social equity.
Doing Good Works operates with a clear focus on integrating sustainability and social impact into every aspect of their business, from product selection to employee engagement. By ensuring that every product offered contributes to social good, the company not only adheres to its mission but also sets a standard for the industry. This business model has led to significant achievements, including providing essential medical-grade masks during a global crisis and supporting young adults from the foster care system in tangible, life-changing ways. The ongoing commitment to meeting and eventually exceeding their goals for product offerings and workforce composition demonstrates a sustainable path forward that balances profit with purpose and contributes to a better world.
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Doing Good Works is a social enterprise dedicated to creating positive change in communities worldwide. Through innovative approaches and strategic partnerships, they tackle pressing social and environmental issues ranging from education and healthcare to sustainability and poverty alleviation. Their business model integrates profit-making activities with a strong commitment to social impact, ensuring that every endeavor contributes meaningfully to the betterment of society. With a focus on long-term sustainability and measurable outcomes, Doing Good Works strives to be a beacon of hope and progress in an ever-changing world.