Paying It Forward: Giveback and Social Responsibility

Abstract

Strata Decisions, a small Chicago-based technology company, gives all of its 100 employees one day off a year to volunteer or give back to the community. The company calls that paid time off “Mensch Day.” It’s a popular success internally, and externally in the community. Many employees opt to volunteer on their own time, too. Inside the company’s headquarters, walls are adorned with pictures of smiling employees engaged in various volunteer activities, from cross-country skiing with the disabled to serving dinners to the homeless, reading to kids, and more.

There’s no greater reward personally and professionally than making a difference for others.

—Diane K. Adams