2 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Putting your money to work for the benefit of mankind is a good option. It pays in many different ways, the least of which is the comforting knowledge that you are not contributing to those who have no other concerns other than their own. However, talk is cheap and investing and spending your money wisely will need preplanning and forethought. You, first of all invest time in learning more about how to go about investing in these concerns.

One company that is highly rated online is Starbucks. There is no denying that it sells excellent coffee, is good to its employees and supports its coffee growers. Environmentally, it is geared to recycling and doing as least damage to the good earth as is reasonably possible. That of course makes it better than most. On NASDAQ it is listed as SBUK.

Google gets my vote as well as many others. GOOG on NASDAQ. Researchers say they are good to their employees and are committed to a better future for us all. Let's face us, most us who write and spend a fair share of time online like the way Google does business. It allows us to do so many things easier, quicker and free. And, if that is not enough, we simply like the way the name sounds. So what if when we say Google it sounds as if we are gargling with a muffler on.

The Kroger Company gets my vote. Although it is does not head the list of the one hundred best corporate citizens by Business Ethics Magazine, it is on there as the 99th. I have first hand knowledge of its community spirit, it's dedicated and well mannered employees, and its value and commitment to the various neighborhoods it serves. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, this large US food chain with 2,418 supermarkets in thirty-two states has been keeping us well fed for many years.

Another personal choice is General Mills. I know it is a large corporation that towers over much of the food industry, but what it does it does well. But the best reason it gets my vote is its recent addition to its cereal line with gluten free cereals. To be able to buy a box of gluten free cereal off the shelves like everyone else and pay the regular price is absolutely wonderful. Gluten intolerant sufferers everywhere thank them for this kindness. To GM it is only good business, to celiac sufferers, it is being socially responsible.

Yet their social consciousness goes further. They partner with Feeding America, a large supplier of food banks across the country; in fact connected to 63,000 agencies in the US. Natural disaster relief and support for efforts by the American Red Cross also tops their least of social responsibility. They have been in business for 130 years and in today's economic uncertainty that says a lot. They have not stayed in business by ignoring those in need.

Whether choosing socially responsible companies to invest in, or simply buying from these companies you are investing in the future of your community, your country, and your world. Or, without doing much except passing along information to those who likewise need to know the best places their money can be spent wisely, is advancing the cause of social responsibility. Don't you wish every one would do this?

Learn more about this author, EMoore.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to make socially responsible investments?
We want to hear your view. Write now!