Law Firms Must Adjust Corporate Giving to Have Lasting Impact

The term "corporate responsibility" is one that is used liberally in the legal industry today.  Every law firm knows that its public reputation can be strengthened to some extent, by giving to those less fortunate in their communities.  To many firms, this means monetary donations to organizations that they - or more often their clients - deem to be worthy causes.  While their generosity is no doubt appreciated by the recipients, the long-term benefit to these organizations and the communities they serve is often negligible.  Alternatively, by closely integrating "corporate responsibility" into their overall cultures, firms can better position themselves to have a tangible impact on the organizations they support, says Bryan I. Schwartz, chairman of Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC (Chicago). 

"While many law firms really do care about their communities and are very sincere about supporting those in need, they often fail to utilize the same strategy in their corporate responsibility initiatives that they do in their core business, and that leads to contributions that have little lasting impact on those who receive them."

Instead, says Mr. Schwartz, corporate and social responsibility must take a holistic approach that weaves together strategy and the firm’s constituencies: clients, owners, employees and the community at large.

"Our CSR program, for example, seeks to integrate our best firm and employee practices, including environmentally sustainability and strategically aligned philanthropic direction that is impactful rather than merely supplemental," Mr. Schwartz says.  "We want to make a difference as a firm and see the effort and resources that we bring to the organization really make a difference.  This goes beyond required pro bono, holiday toy drives and matching programs, elevating social responsibility to a key strategy for business and personal success.  “Social responsibility should be incorporated into the fabric of a firm as a path to success, satisfaction and fulfillment."

Mr. Schwartz continues, "Law firms need to carefully select where they direct their efforts, seeking partnerships and organizations that share their approach, outlook and values.  In supporting the innovation and leadership underway at nonprofit organizations, firms can extend their ability to make a difference in their communities.  This approach enables our firm to share, highlight and leverage our CSR successes and efforts within the legal industry and beyond."

Mr. Schwartz is available to discuss his firm's approach to corporate and social responsibility and the ways in which a similar approach can yield improved results for law firms of all sizes. [06/03/2010]