2012 Resolutions: Make Your “Declaration of Interdependence”

  By Baley Phelps, Account Executive and Jay Andrew, Vice President

Now that (most) of our Thanksgiving leftovers have been cleared from the fridge (turkey pot pie, anyone?) and temperatures have finally dipped below 70 degrees in Houston, there is no denying it. The holidays are here—officially. For many, the holiday season brings with it a time of reflection. This year in particular, with economic hardships and suffering at the opening of nightly newscasts, it is even more apparent that people in our community need our help. As we begin to think about our resolutions for 2012, it will be important to consider others as much as we do ourselves.

At Edelman we call it “interdependence.” It’s the idea that we are all connected and that everything we do has an impact. Those of us who are able, have the unique opportunity to make a difference in the coming year, and we should make a commitment to do the most we can on both a global and local level. In today’s inter-connected, always-on culture, we are no longer just citizens of our city, state and country. We are citizens of the world.

For 2012, Edelman’s global citizenship initiative is hunger and poverty. To scale this down to the local level, each office identifies a “partner” organization in need of volunteers, donations or PR counsel/support. Here in Houston, we are currently in the selection process—giving employees the opportunity to nominate and ultimately select an organization that speaks to personal experiences and interests. The ultimate goal is to use our talents to better our community.

In 2010, Edelman employees gave more than 29,000 hours of volunteer time, equating to almost $4 million in donations. Causes included hunger and homelessness in Portland, a women’s mentoring program in Hong Kong and education initiatives in Milan. Employees were also encouraged to submit grant requests for organizations with which they donate time and money. Approximately $150,000 was awarded through these grants in categories such as animal welfare, community development, education and the environment.

This is really just the beginning. As you start to consider your resolutions for 2012, think about putting others first. Make your own declaration of interdependence and see the positive impact you can bring to your local community. We all want to change the world—LET’S GET STARTED!