Following The Global Summit, I've come up with a simple tool to help association leaders think about their social responsibility efforts. Not surprisingly, I call it the "4 dos ladder of association social responsibility." Here is a brief explanation of each level:

do something-Individual staff or members organizing to take some form of personal or small group action, including "going green," using fair trade products or making time/financial contributions to SR-related causes.

do good-Associations choosing to act in a socially-responsible manner through focused charitable, community service or philanthropic endeavors.

do more-Associations recognizing ASR as a strategic imperative with long-term business implications for both the association and the industry, profession or field.

do well-Associations integrating social responsibility into all strategic decision-making, adopting metrics to evaluate performance and seeking out opportunities to serve new markets by supporting or engaging in socially-responsible innovation.

What is your feedback on the 4 dos ladder? Do you find it helpful? Where is your association on this ladder right now, and what will you do to climb to the next level? Give me your feedback and share your thoughts!

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