MaRS

In October, The Toronto Star published Mediacorp’s  Honour Roll of GTA’s Top 90 Employers for 2010. While there were some encore appearances from companies such as KPMG LLB, Bayer Inc and Ontario Power Generation,  what was particularly interesting was the number of non-profit organizations that made the list. Particularly notable was the increase in this number from 2008 to 2009. Of the 90 companies who made the cut, 22% are non-profit organizations with a few operating social enterprises.

The Toronto Star publication emphasizes that more and more social enterprises (defined as “a not for profit organizations with a primary social or environmental mission and an intent to generate revenue in the market economy by providing a good or services”) are being compared on the same standard as traditional for profit businesses. In this study, operations and HR practices were compared.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr @ MaRS

Listening to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a little like watching a talented chef in action.

His encyclopedic knowledge of his country’s myriad environmental ills, its rapacious corporate culture and legendary political pork-barreling, combined with his clear love of the American landscape itself, cooks up an inspiring feast for the cliche-weary listener. No wooden delivery here (in spite of a nagging vocal hoarseness for which he apologized).

Plans for the orphanage for Haitian children with HIV/AIDS

Natural disasters like the earthquake in Haiti and the tsunami in South Asia always come as a huge shock and are always tragic. Too many people die, are orphaned, are made homeless. For a week or two, the countries most affected by the force of Mother Nature are thrown into the international spotlight. Millions around the world find spare dollars to send for reconstruction, food, clothing and medicine. For many of us, it is all we can think to do.

The unfortunate reality for Haiti, however, is that it is already one of the world’s poorest countries. It could never have been ready for this earthquake and the effects are exponentially worse due to the poor living conditions. The Haitians need some systemic change after years of political unrest, corruption and foreign intervention. The solution? Social innovation.

Buzzwords in social innovation

Like yours, my inbox is full of really great information on things of vital importance to my field: social innovation.  Most of them receive a quick scan but I always try to find the time to read Philanthropy 2173 by Lucy Bernholz.  I find her particularly tapped-in and insightful.

And as we enter not just a new year but a new decade, Lucy is offering her insight on this year’s buzzwords.  Every sector has them; some more than others. I find them an interesting snapshot: terms that were once completely new to us are now thrown about as if everyone should know exactly what we’re talking about.  Check out Lucy’s blog for more details but the list is below with my thoughts on their relevance for SiG@MaRS in 2009.

Give the gift that gives back

Thinking that presents to your loved ones shouldn’t just line someone’s pockets with dough? Looking for a way to help out local social enterprises this holiday season?

We’ve assembled a list of some of Ontario’s most promising social entrepreneurs’ delightful wares. Happy socially-conscious -shopping!