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Examples of Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a crucial aspect of modern business practices, with companies worldwide recognizing the importance of giving back to society and the environment. Many organizations have implemented various CSR initiatives to make a positive impact and contribute to sustainable development. Here are some inspiring examples of CSR in action in the real world:

1. Patagonia: The outdoor clothing company is a pioneer in sustainable business practices. Patagonia is committed to environmental conservation and actively supports environmental causes. They donate a percentage of their sales to environmental organizations and encourage customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their products.

2. Microsoft: Microsoft is dedicated to empowering people and communities through technology. The company focuses on initiatives such as digital skills training, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. Microsoft also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

3. Unilever: Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company, is known for its sustainability efforts. They have ambitious goals to reduce their environmental impact, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and promote gender equality. Unilever’s Sustainable Living Plan outlines their commitment to responsible sourcing and production.

4. TOM: TOMS Shoes is famous for its “One for One” model, where for every pair of shoes purchased, a pair is donated to a child in need. TOMS has expanded this model to eyewear and clean water initiatives, making a tangible difference in communities around the world.

5. Starbucks: Starbucks is committed to ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship. The company works closely with coffee farmers to ensure fair wages and sustainable farming practices. Starbucks also invests in community development projects and has a goal to reduce its environmental footprint.

These examples demonstrate that corporate social responsibility is not just a trend but a fundamental part of successful business practices. Companies that prioritize CSR not only contribute to a better world but also build stronger relationships with customers, employees, and stakeholders. By following the lead of these companies, businesses can make a meaningful impact and create a more sustainable future for all.

Cooperation between Lidl Slovenia and NPC Slovenia as an example of good practice

Lidl Slovenia is a sponsorship partner to numerous teams, associations and European or world championships in different sports. Their sponsorship strategy aims to attract people to participation in sports and active lifestyle as well as stress the importance of healthy nutritious food, especially fresh fruit and vegetable. This supports their business strategy and its sustainability part, which carries out the mission of working for the benefit of humanity, the planet and individuals.

“By being a positive example in supporting selected projects we wish to influence the broader society as we believe we are capable to create a better world together. One of such projects is our long-running partnership with NPC Slovenia, with which we support the development of para sport and are strengthening public awareness about the importance of sport for the disabled,” Lidl explains.

The activities in cooperation with NPC Slovenia also build one of the key pillars of Lidl’s sustainability strategy: doing good for the people. The partnership exceeds the classic sponsorship arrangement as it is founded on joint cooperation and raising public awareness. Together, Lidl and NPC Slovenia strive to support social inclusion of the disabled, and to remove social and systemic obstacles that are preventing the disabled from using all their potential and becoming active members of the society. Together they have therefore built a platform for raising the recognition of para athletes, which constantly addresses the public as well as prejudice about para athletes.

‘Become an Athlete’ program for disabled youth

This is how in 2017, soon after the partnership between Lidl and NPC Slovenia started, the ‘Become an Athlete’ program was launched, aiming to set up a lasting system for the inclusion of disabled youth into sport. The program was a natural upgrade to the initial cooperation, in which Lild provides strategic support in drawing up the program’s content and with execution of activities, while NPC Slovenia as its expert foundation encourages disabled youth to participate in sports programs and activities all over Slovenia. Together they are creating better conditions for the disabled, thus creating better conditions for everyone.

The ‘Become an Athlete’ program encompasses a wide range of initiatives, events and workshops for disabled youth as well as their parents, teachers, PE teachers, local sports clubs, national sports associations, disabled societies and so on. Two other important aspects of the program are increasing the number of trained teachers who are versed in working with disabled children and building a high-quality base of suppliers of sports activities for disabled youth.

The two partners have managed to build solid foundations and spread their activities across Slovenia. The expert public and key institutions carrying out rehabilitation and sporting activities for disabled youth as well as local communities, education institutions and other parties are also being actively included into the activities. Only through participation of all parties – national institutions, local communities, business corporations and the general society – can we create better conditions for para athletes, who are proving over and over again that they can be great role-models for each and every one of us.

Are the effects visible yet?

The ‘Become an Athlete’ project is currently in a phase when its effects are mostly seen in an increasing interest of PE/sports teachers for working with the disabled, as well as in an increased participation of the disabled in clubs and at competitions. In terms of broader society, a gradual break down of stereotypes and increased inclusivity have been detected, since it is easier for the disabled youth who participate in sports to enter the society, they are more confident, and tend to build broader social networks for themselves.

There is much space for improvement, especially with accessibility of sports infrastructure. Slovenia is in great need of a national para sports centre, being one of very few countries without one. The establishment of such a centre would provide a focal point for the development and coordination of para sport, enabling better access to quality programs for disabled youth.

Pre-Paralympic Paris 20204 campaign: NOTHING CAN SEPARATE YOU FROM SPORT

Aiming to attract fan support for Slovenian para athletes and promote Slovenian para sport, Lidl Slovenia and NPC Slovenia partnered up in creating a national campaign carrying the message: ‘Nothing Can Separate You From Sport’.

“In the world of sports, where exceptional achievements and talent are often celebrated, para athletes are not always treated equally – be it that they receive less attention than their non-disabled colleagues, or their results are being stressed because of their physical limitations. But much like all athletes, para athletes just want clear and loud support for their efforts, tenacity and achievements. That was the guideline for creating this campaign,” says Lidl Slovenia. The campaign also uses para athletes’ virtues to inspire and actualize the equality amongst sports and athletes, celebrating the uniqueness of each individual. It showcases para athletes’ strengths, which they really have in common with most non-disabled athletes, and can as such be an inspiration to us all.

Paralympic camps for families in Slovenia

The Sports Association for the Disabled of Slovenia – Slovenian Paralympic Committee organizes four-day summer and winter Paralympic camps for families. Summer camps have been held in Laško since 2019, usually during the last weekend in August, and starting in 2024, winter camps for families are held on Rogla, typically at the beginning of February.

These camps are designed for children and young people with various disabilities and their families. The camps aim to introduce children and youth to various parasports they can engage in. On average, about 15-20 families participate in these camps.

A unique aspect of the Paralympic family camps is that children with disabilities are the centre of attention, with all activities tailored specifically to them. This is different from their everyday lives, where they often have to adapt to others. It’s important for the entire family to participate, allowing parents and siblings to see the capabilities of their child (or brother or sister).

Children enjoy parasports

At the camp, children meet parasports athletes and learn firsthand about the sports that might interest them. Children get to know and test themselves in various sports.

Some of them have developed a passion for a specific parasport at these camps and there are already some successful para athletes who got excited about sports at the camp.

Future parasports athletes and their parents also receive education on various topics at the camp. Some lectures are organized only for parents discussing parenting and other relevant topics.

Strong cooperation with CSR companies

The term “CSR company” refers to a company that actively engages in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. CSR involves a business model that helps a company be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public. CSR companies operate in ways that enhance society and the environment, instead of contributing negatively to them.

In 2022, Lek Pharmaceuticals joined the camp as a partner. Lek’s volunteers have been participating in the camp for several years, helping with sports activities and also organizing workshops with experiments for children. It is a company that is recognized in Slovenia and globally as an important CSR company.

Allianz SE works to improve the quality of life of young people and people with disabilities worldwide and to promote sustainable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. In this, they recognize the importance of sports for individual development, so they want to provide access to sports for everyone. Their partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic Movement thus contributes to better education and employability, helping individuals achieve independent living.

This year too, the Allianz Foundation supported the implementation of socially responsible projects within the “Social Impact” and “MoveNow” initiatives. On the basis of the initiatives, individual Allianz companies around the world can obtain funds to carry out “MoveNow” camps in their country. Interest in supporting local communities is growing, as a record 53 applications were received this year. Allianz Slovenia was among the 31 recipient countries with a proposal to participate in the implementation of the Paralympic Camp for Families.

Paralympic Sport Days for schools and for companies

Paralympic School Days

The Paralympic School Day is an event carried out by NPC Slovenia at primary and secondary schools all over Slovenia. During this event, the students get to know and try out Paralympic sports as well as listen to an inspiring life-story of a Slovenian para athlete. The para sports presented at the events include: sitting volleyball, goalball, wheelchair basketball, para curling, boccia and others. The event concludes with an exhibition of a para sport in its competition form. Paralympic School Days are being carried out throughout the academic year from September till June and are supported and financed by the Triglav insurer company.

Paralympic sports days as team building for companies

Paralympic sports days are organized for companies, usually as a half-day sporting activity at an agreed-upon location. What does a Paralympic Sport Day look like?

Para sports are presented at a pre-determined location (usually a sports hall), with the participants getting a chance to try them out themselves as well. The para sports are presented by Slovenian para athletes and Paralympians, which adds value to the event as the participants also get to meet them.

Sport unites people and brings co-workers closer together, while the participants also do some exercising.

Day of Slovenian Sport

This is a national holiday in Slovenia that especially celebrates the Paralympic and Olympic Movements. NPC Slovenia uses the day to host a sporting event for its partners: running, hand-biking and wheelchair basketball tournament have become its traditional activities in the past few years.

Assessing results: the sixth and final project meeting in Budapest

On 10 June, 2024, the final (hybrid) project meeting for “CSR for Parasport” partners took place in Budapest, hosted by the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Hungary. This sixth and concluding meeting brought together project partners – including NPCs of Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, and Hungary – under the coordination of the consortium leader, the Croatian Institute for CSR (IDOP).

The partners reviewed the achievements attained throughout the project and identified areas where further actions are needed. Additionally, they have begun the preparation for the project’s closure, foreseen at the end of July, and discussed tasks related to the Final Report.

Within the last 22 months, thanks to several research and assessment activities of the partners, a Digital Guideline was created, which demonstrates with good practice videos, why it is useful for all stakeholders, if the support of parasport is an integral part of the companies’ CSR activities. NPCs of Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia and Hungary – inter alia – prepared training materials on the topic, and held trainings for different target groups: ’train-the-trainer’ lectures for 12 and ’train-the-end-users’ events for 160 people in the 4 countries. The project’s social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn) are operating with almost 100 blog posts and more than 430 followers to date.

Our aim is to keep up the good work, and further disseminate the good practices of the project throughout sectors and countries.

Business life’s “Oscar Gala” to support the Hungarian Paralympic Team for Paris Paralympics

On 25 May, 2024 the National Association of Managers hosted the 29th Manager of the Year Awards, considered as the „Oscar Gala” of the domestic business world. The nearly 35 year old organisation celebrated business excellences with more than 300 guests at the Budapest Marriott Hotel. The Hungarian Paralympic Team was also in the spotlight at this year’s gala, as the proceeds of the event’s charity raffle draw – more than 2.88 million Hungarian forints – were donated in full to the team’s preparations for Paris.

’This is an award given to an outstanding top manager on the basis of his or her outstanding achievements in the previous year, who has not only focused on business success in their career, but has also demonstrated over many years a sense of social responsibility that can serve as an example for everyone’, emphasised about the award István Kapitány, President of the National Association of Managers.

And indeed, the spirit of the event reflects the importance of social responsibility: the gala dinner opened with a compilation of the medal winners of the Tokyo Paralympics, followed by a welcome speech by László Szabó, President of the Hungarian Paralympic Committee. ’The gesture of the Managers’ Association means much more to us than the money raised. The fact that a community of the country’s most successful senior managers has taken notice of our activities and the achievements of our athletes is a source of pride in itself,” said László Szabó after the event.

As a result of the raffle purchases of the participants, a total of 2 885 000 forints were raised for the Hungarian Paralympic Team, which may reach 40-50 members by the end of the qualification period for the Paralympic Games in Paris.

The winners of the 29th Manager of the Year Awards Gala, based on their achievements in 2023:

Manager of the Year Award: Jelasity Radovan, CEO of Erste Bank
Manager of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award: Erik Bogsch, CEO of Richter Gedeon Plc.
Female Manager of the Year Special Award: Beáta Juvancz, Managing Director of BlackRock
Special Award for Manager of the Year for Society: Norbert Fogarasi, Managing Director of Morgan Stanley Hungary Analysis Ltd.
Blue Innovation Special Award: Tímea Jamniczky, CEO of JCDecaux Hungary
Young Manager of the Year Award: Szabados Márk, Managing Director of Mogyi Ltd.
Manager of the Year for the Green Economy Special Award: Anita Simon, Deputy CEO for Sustainability and Circular Economy, ALTEO Plc.
Manager of the Future Special Award: Bálint Fazekas, Managing Director of Euronics / Vöröskő Ltd.

Driving Alert: Preventing Microsleep Behind the Wheel

As summer unfolds, so does a crucial project in Slovakia focused on preventing microsleep while driving. This initiative gains momentum during this season, particularly due to the long journeys people embark on for vacations abroad, where drivers are most susceptible to overestimating their abilities behind the wheel. Spearheaded by the Slovak Paralympic Committee (SPV) in collaboration with its principal partner, Allianz, this project aims to raise awareness and curb the dangers associated with microsleep.

Microsleep stands as one of the foremost adversaries of drivers, often leading to severe traffic accidents. Lasting mere fractions of a second or up to half a minute, microsleep episodes occur even with open eyes, during which individuals are oblivious to external stimuli. For drivers, this lapse in consciousness can result in a loss of control over the vehicle, with potentially catastrophic consequences.

Colonel Tomáš Vrábel, Director of the Traffic Police Department, emphasizes the gravity of microsleep-related accidents, underlining the need for drivers to refrain from operating a vehicle when fatigued or otherwise impaired. He stresses the human cost of such tragedies, urging individuals to prioritize road safety over haste or negligence.

Drawing from their frontline experiences, rescue workers echo the importance of effective prevention strategies. Peter Skržek from AP Rescue underscores the significance of adequate rest before driving and the necessity of regular breaks and hydration during journeys. Even simple measures like chewing gum or taking brief naps can help mitigate the risk of microsleep-induced accidents.

Ján Riapoš, Chairman of the SPV, shares a deeply personal perspective, having been a victim of a microsleep-related accident himself. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the life-altering consequences of fatigue behind the wheel. Riapoš advocates for a shift in priorities, emphasizing the intrinsic value of human life over professional commitments.

Traffic expert Alex Štefuca delves into the mechanics of microsleep and its implications for road safety. He stresses the critical need for drivers to recognize the warning signs of fatigue and prioritize rest over the pressing demands of travel.

Lucia Strnad Muthová, administrator of the Allianz Foundation, highlights the collaborative efforts between Allianz and the SPV in driving this preventive campaign. By leveraging the credibility and personal narratives of para-athletes, the initiative seeks to resonate with audiences and effect meaningful behavioral change.

In conclusion, the fight against microsleep requires collective vigilance and a commitment to prioritizing safety on the roads. By heeding the lessons shared by experts and survivors alike, drivers can take proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with fatigue behind the wheel. Let us remember that a moment’s lapse in attention can have far-reaching consequences, underscoring the need for unwavering diligence and responsibility while driving.

Olympics and Paralympics are also competitions for clothing companies – a fashion show in the spirit of inclusivity

On 6 May 2024, the Hungarian Sports Day, sixteen top athletes and twenty invited celebrities presented the uniforms of the Hungarian Olympic and Paralympic Team. For the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, the marching costume is designed and produced by Heavy Tools, while the sportswear is made by Adidas and Tisza, and the celebratory clothing is made with the cooperation of Roland Fashion House and Kézmű. Boglárka Telegdy-Kapás, who is traveling to her fourth Olympics, and Illés Fanni, who is now preparing to defend her Paralympic title as a mother, stood out among the models, but the singer-rapper T. Danny and the Actress of the Nation, Dorottya Udvaros also appeared on the catwalk. In addition, the representatives of the brands, the relevant sports managers, and from the sponsoring side, representatives of the Hungarian National Bank, Hungarian Post and the national lottery company (’Szerencsejáték Zrt.’) also participated as speakers.

The state secretary responsible for sports Ádám Schmidt greeted the participants of the large-scale event. ’In Hungarian sports, we strive to be the best in all areas, and this is also the case with the appearance of our athletes. The team uniform is not only aesthetic but also a symbol of pride. It shows the hard work of many years and decades, which is essential for someone to wear the national colors.’ he emphasized in his speech.

The president of the Hungarian Olympic Committee, Zsolt Gyulay, spoke about the goals of the Olympic team and announced the two captains of the Hungarian Olympic Team in Paris: three-times Olympic champion sabre-fencer Áron Szilágyi and Olympic bronze medallist swimmer Boglárka Kapás. The president of the Hungarian Paralympic Committee, László Szabó, recalled the uniforms of the old days and drew attention to the inclusive nature of sport. ’The audience of today’s fashion show was able to see not able-bodied and disabled, not wheelchair-bound and visually impaired, but proud Hungarian sportsmen and celebrities’, he emphasized in his speech.

A total of six tours were presented on the catwalks of the Várkert Bazaar event hall, where eight Olympians, eight Paralympians and twenty invited celebrities presented their uniforms. Among the Olympians, handball player Kinga Debreczeni-Klivinyi, pentathlon athlete Michelle Gulyás, wrestler Dávid Losonczi, judokas Szofi Özbas and Krisztián Tóth, and swimmers Márton Richárd, Ádám Telegdy and Telegdy-Kapás Boglárka shone on the catwalk to present the Adidas-designed sportswear, the celebratory clothes of Roland Fashion House and Heavy Tools. The representatives of the three brands – Fanny Lanctot, brand director of Adidas, Szonja Berendi, brand director of Roland Fashion House, and László Doroszlay, managing director of Heavy Tools – talked about what cooperation with the Olympians means in the life of their business.

Several of the Paralympians have already routinely moved on the catwalk, as the Hungarian Paralympic Team previously held a fashion show before Rio and Tokyo. This year, the audience was able to learn more about the Paralympic sportswear collection designed and produced by Tisza in the interpretation of athlete Zoltán Bessenyey, dressage rider Ildikó Fonyódi, swimmers Fanni Illés, Bence Iván and Bianka Pap, badminton player Róbert Kertész and fencers Anna Nádasdy and Richard Osváth. The representatives of Tisza and Kézmű, as well as Zema, which provides jewelry for models – László Vidák, the owner of Tisza, Dezső Madarász, public procurement and purchasing director of Kézmű, and Erzsébet Papp, the creative director of Zema – reported on what inspired them in a podium discussion. during the creation of collections, and why supporting Hungarian athletes is important to them.

The programme of the fashion show was also enriched by the issuance of the Olympic-Paralympic commemorative medal of the Hungarian National Bank. Vice-President of the Bank, Csaba Kandrács emphasized that ’in the spirit of equality, integration and inclusion, the Hungarian National Bank wants to display the message ‘one team – one country’ on the commemorative coin.’

Among the supporters’ representatives, Andrea Mager, the president and CEO of the national lottery company (’Szerencsejáték Zrt.’) also greeted the audience of the fashion show. The national lottery company has been a committed supporter of Hungarian sports successes since its foundation, for three decades now, and is currently a strategic partner of the Hungarian Olympic and Paralympic Committees. According to its partnership with the Hungarian Olympic Committee, it supports not only the Olympic preparation, but also the preparation for the winter and summer European Youth Olympic Festivals and the European Games. It mainly contributes to the preparation of the Paralympics by subsidising sports equipment, but the company also pays special attention to the social inclusion of people with disabilities in addition to supporting paralympics: for 20 years now, it has been operating its lottery ticket sales network exclusively for employees with disabilities, as well as – with children with disabilities in mind – participates in the creation of inclusive playgrounds.

Special thanks to all participants and members of the press for honoring the event, as well as the sponspors and supporters for contributing to the show!

Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris 2024: A Global Call for Peace

In what promises to be a historic event, the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 are set to captivate the world from July 26 to August 11 and August 28 to September 8, respectively. However, beyond the realm of sports, a significant initiative has been undertaken to promote peace on a global scale.

A UN General Assembly resolution, spearheaded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), calls for adherence to the Olympic Truce from July 19 to September 15, 2024. This truce aims to foster peace during and after the games, transcending geopolitical tensions and conflicts.

In a compelling address preceding the resolution’s adoption, Thomas Bach, President of the IOC, underscored the paramount importance of this truce in today’s tumultuous world. He emphasized that the Olympics serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that nations can unite in peaceful competition despite their differences. Bach’s words echo the foundational principles of the Olympic movement: solidarity, friendship, and respect.

Tony Estanguet, President of the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, echoed Bach’s sentiments, highlighting the symbolic significance of the Olympic Village as a microcosm of global harmony. He emphasized that the Games offer a profound opportunity to showcase the universal values of diversity and inclusion.

Crucially, the resolution emphasizes the equal representation of male and female athletes, reflecting a commitment to gender equality in sports—a cause championed by both the UN and the IOC.

The resolution’s broader objective is to leverage the power of sports as a catalyst for peace and reconciliation. By engaging in dialogue and fostering understanding through athletic competition, the Olympic and Paralympic Games serve as a catalyst for positive change on the world stage.

Paris, as the host city, has embraced its role in promoting peace through sports. By adhering to the principles of the Olympic Truce and welcoming athletes from diverse backgrounds, Paris 2024 embodies the spirit of unity and cooperation.

In conclusion, the Olympic and Paralympic Games transcend mere athletic competition; they represent a collective endeavor to build a better world through sports. As nations come together in Paris, let us heed the call for peace and solidarity, recognizing the transformative power of sports in fostering global harmony.

The Transformative Legacy of CSR for ParaSport: Paving the Way for Inclusivity

In the realm of parasports, the Corporate Social Responsibility for ParaSport project has left an indelible mark on parasport, igniting a revolution of inclusivity and empowerment. As we reflect on its legacy, it becomes evident that the consortium’s commitment to CSR has transcended mere corporate obligation, becoming a catalyst for social change and redefining the landscape of parasports across a smaller part of Europe.

Inclusivity isn’t just a noble aspiration; it’s a fundamental principle that drives progress and societal change. Among the myriad initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, the EU Project CSR for ParaSport stands out as a beacon of collaboration and empowerment. Spearheaded by the Institution for Corporate Social Responsibility in Croatia in partnership with counterparts from the Croatian, Slovakian, Hungaryan and Slovenian Paralympic Committees, this project has left an indelible mark on the landscape of parasport.

CSR for ParaSport was built upon the principle of leveraging corporate social responsibility to promote and support paralympic sports. By harnessing the resources and expertise of both public and private entities, the project aimed to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive sporting environment for individuals with disabilities.

One of the most significant legacies of this project lies in its emphasis on development. Through targeted initiatives and outreach programs, the participating Paralympic committees worked tirelessly to engage local communities and organizations in the promotion of parasport. By fostering a culture of inclusivity from the ground up, they laid the foundation for sustainable growth and long-term impact.

The CSR for ParaSport project also played a pivotal role in raising awareness and changing perceptions surrounding disability and sports. Through strategic communication campaigns and educational workshops, the project challenged stereotypes and showcased the incredible athleticism and determination of Paralympic athletes. By highlighting the stories of resilience and triumph, they inspired individuals to embrace the power of parasports as a tool for personal growth and social change.

Beyond its immediate impact, CSR for ParaSport leaves behind a legacy of collaboration and partnership. By bringing together stakeholders from across borders and sectors, the project demonstrated the power of collective action in driving positive change. Through shared goals and mutual respect, the participating committees set a shining example of what can be achieved when organizations unite behind a common cause.

As we reflect on the legacy of the EU Project CSR for ParaSport, it’s clear that its impact extends far beyond the realm of sports. By promoting inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering collaboration, the project has paved the way for a more equitable and compassionate society. As we look to the future, let us carry forward the lessons learned and continue to champion the cause of parasport, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to pursue their athletic dreams, regardless of their ability.