Josh Bartch

Corporate philanthropy has always been a visible way for businesses to give back, whether through donations, sponsorships, or large-scale initiatives led by executives. While these traditional efforts have left an impact, today’s employees are calling for a new approach. They want to be included in how their companies support communities, and they want to see their voices reflected in the causes chosen. This shift has given rise to employee-led philanthropy , a movement that is transforming the future of corporate responsibility. A New Chapter in Corporate Giving For years, corporate giving was defined by top-down decision-making. Leaders selected organizations, set funding priorities, and promoted initiatives aligned with brand strategy. Although effective in many cases, this approach often left employees feeling like outsiders in their company’s social impact journey. Employee-led philanthropy changes this narrative. Instead of executives alone determining where resources should be a...

  Shifting Expectations in Business Not long ago, success in business was measured by market share and quarterly earnings alone. But times have changed. Today’s consumers, employees, and investors expect more. They want to know if a company is treating people fairly, if it’s reducing its environmental footprint , and if it’s giving back to communities. This shift has sparked a movement where purpose is no longer a side note—it’s becoming the very foundation of how businesses are built and run. Profit Is No Longer Enough It’s not that profit has lost its importance—far from it. A healthy business must be financially sound. But modern success is about balance. Brands like Patagonia have proven that strong values don’t hurt the bottom line; they often strengthen it. By pledging 1% of sales to environmental causes and making bold commitments to sustainability, Patagonia has built a loyal customer base willing to pay a premium for products that align with their values. In other words,...

In today’s world of rising inequality, climate change , and social challenges, awareness is only the starting point. Real transformation begins when compassion evolves into meaningful action. By turning empathy into advocacy, community engagement, and sustainable choices, individuals and organizations can drive social impact that lasts. From humanitarian aid to grassroots movements, the journey from awareness to action is how compassion shapes a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable future. Recognizing the Power of Awareness Awareness is the seed of transformation. When we learn about the struggles of others—whether it is families facing food insecurity, communities affected by climate change, or marginalized voices fighting for equality—we begin to see the world differently. This recognition creates the foundation for compassion and motivates people to question the status quo. Yet, without follow-through, awareness risks becoming passive. It can leave people paralyzed by the eno...

Local philanthropy is a powerful force for community transformation. Unlike large-scale donations that often feel distant, local giving is immediate, personal, and impactful. It allows individuals and organizations to support causes close to home and deliver change where it's needed most. Whether it's helping families in crisis or funding youth programs , local philanthropy meets real needs with tailored solutions. Communities thrive when neighbors help neighbors. Local donors understand the specific challenges their towns face. By supporting trusted organizations and regional initiatives, they create a ripple effect that touches lives, fosters collaboration, and builds a shared sense of responsibility. Meeting Urgent Local Needs Every community has its own unique needs. Some may struggle with housing, while others face food insecurity or lack access to healthcare. Local philanthropists step in to fill these gaps. Their support ensures essential services remain available for th...