Today, the best corporate neighbors-whether they are adjacent to a single village or have operations in every corner of the globe-are seeking to embed an awareness of community relations and volunteerism in the consciousness of all of their employees. Any effort by an organization or corporation to affect even small positive changes should be lauded. However, companies that encourage wholesale employee volunteerism or that set up programs to directly help their communities are finding that they reap benefits far beyond a positive PR play (or an award win). Research shows that employees who are involved in corporate-sponsored volunteer programs are more productive in the workplace, show a significantly greater sense of teamwork, and present a more positive image of the companies they work for. Companies that emphasize the employment of local residentsýas opposed to out-of-state or international contractors-to build, operate and maintain energy facilities also contribute greatly to the quality of life in the communities in which energy companies operate.
The judges will be looking for companies that have made community development an integral and long-term part of their overall corporate vision-companies in which senior-level managers take an active and visible role in community activities on an ongoing basis.
The judges will evaluate the level to which a company's programs target the unique needs of its community and assess the degree of employee participation. Nominees will need to document the tangible benefits the company has received from encouraging its employees to participate in affecting change in the areas where they live and work..
Judges will consider any community development program currently in operation and scheduled to continue until at least the end of 2009
Scope
Challenges
Benefit to Community
Employee Participation
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