The Role of Social Value in Today’s Business Landscape: A Focus on the AtkinsRéalis Foundation

In a world where corporate success is increasingly measured by more than just financial metrics, social value has become a key factor in evaluating an organization’s impact. Social value encompasses the positive contributions an organization makes to society, addressing social, environmental and economic dimensions. Let’s explore the concept of social value and highlight how the AtkinsRéalis Foundation is at the forefront of supporting these efforts through its charitable initiatives.

Defining Social Value

Social value refers to the benefits an organization provides beyond traditional financial gain, including improvements in social, environmental and economic conditions. For businesses like AtkinsRéalis where there is an executive focus on Culture and Social Impact, social value involves not only how we invest our profits, but also how we contribute positively to the communities where we operate. Key components include:

Social Impact: Enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities through targeted initiatives.

Environmental Stewardship: Implementing practices that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.

Economic Inclusion: Creating opportunities and reducing inequalities through strategic investments and support programs.

The Importance of Social Value to Employees and Clients

To Employees:

• Enhanced Job Satisfaction and Engagement: Employees who see their organization actively working to create social value are often more engaged and satisfied with their work. This alignment with personal values fosters a stronger connection to the organization.
• Attraction and Retention of Talent: Organizations that prioritize social value attract talent who seek meaningful work that aligns with their values. This focus also aids in retaining employees by creating a supportive and purpose-driven work environment.
• Positive Workplace Culture: A commitment to social value contributes to a positive workplace culture, enhancing team morale and collaboration.
• Professional Development and Growth: Investing in social value initiatives often includes opportunities for employees to develop skills and participate in impactful projects, contributing to their personal and professional growth.

To Clients:

• Building Trust and Loyalty: Clients are drawn to organizations that reflect their values and make positive contributions to society. Demonstrating social value helps build trust and fosters long-term client relationships.
• Enhanced Brand Reputation: Organizations known for their social value efforts enjoy a stronger reputation and brand identity, which can influence client preferences and loyalty.• Differentiation in the Market: Social value initiatives set organizations apart from competitors, providing a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
• Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty: Clients are more satisfied with and loyal to companies that align with their values and contribute positively to society.

The Role of the AtkinsRéalis Foundation in Supporting Social Value

The AtkinsRéalis Foundation, established in 2005 as an IRC §501(c)(3) charitable organization, plays a pivotal role in advancing social value efforts. Funded by employee contributions, the Foundation aligns its philanthropic efforts with the communities where AtkinsRéalis operates, making a significant impact in several key areas:

1. STEM Education Support: The Foundation awards charitable grants to organizations that promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in underserved communities. These grants, championed by AtkinsRéalis employees, help bridge educational gaps and inspire future generations of STEM professionals.
2. Minority Scholarship Program: The Foundation supports the AtkinsRéalis Minority Scholarship Program, providing financial aid to minority students pursuing engineering degrees at colleges and universities across the United States. This initiative aims to increase diversity in the engineering field and support the academic achievements of underrepresented students.
3. Corporate Contribution Matching: In the U.S. AtkinsRéalis contributes corporate funds to the Foundation by matching individual employee contributions and contributions to its PAC on a dollar-for-dollar basis. This practice amplifies the impact of employee giving and demonstrates a collective commitment to social value.
4. Community Impact: Since 2020, the Foundation has contributed more than $600,000 to community organizations and scholarships, including $146,000 in 2023 alone. These contributions reflect the Foundation’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

Conclusion

Social value is a critical component of modern organizational success, influencing employee satisfaction, client loyalty and overall brand reputation. The AtkinsRéalis Foundation exemplifies how a focused commitment to social value can drive meaningful impact, from supporting STEM education to fostering diversity through scholarships. By integrating social value into their strategies, organizations can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future while benefiting from enhanced engagement, trust, and market differentiation.

Organizations are encouraged to explore how they can align their efforts with social value objectives, engage stakeholders and develop impactful initiatives. The journey towards creating social value is ongoing, and every step contributes to a more just and sustainable world.