The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center named FedEx as a finalist in the 2011 Corporate Citizenship Awards competition, in the category of Best Business Neighbor. The Corporate Citizenship Awards, known simply as the “Citizens,” have been presented every year since 2000 and are one of the nation’s premier recognition programs for companies that actively work to improve societal challenges.
The Best Business Neighbor category is for companies that exemplify the ability of the business sector to demonstrate social or civic leadership through a single strategic initiative. The FedEx EarthSmart Outreach initiative was cited as having all the makings of a solid corporate citizenship program. The program places emphasis on cities where FedEx has a significant business presence.
“We are honored to receive this recognition,” says Mitch Jackson, FedEx Corp. vice president of Environmental Affairs and Sustainability. “We take our social and civic leadership very seriously. EarthSmart Outreach encompasses our philanthropic and volunteer efforts that focus on environmental sustainability – particularly with organizations that tackle issues FedEx is uniquely capable of helping to solve. We do more than invest dollars – we apply our team members’ unique skills, perspectives and capabilities from the world of shipping and logistics to do things like support safer, cleaner transit in Mexico City, study the interplay of trade and the environment, or help with local cleanup projects.”
The winners of the 2011 Citizens will be announced on Nov. 17 at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. “This year’s finalists for The Citizens exemplify some of the most unique and robust corporate citizenship programs in our country,” says Stephen Jordan, U.S. Chamber BCLC founder and executive director. “These companies show smart thinking and deep commitment on societal issues ranging from financial literacy and economic empowerment to sustainable community development to individual wellness, safety and other basic needs.”
