NewHavenBIZ

BUSINESS PROFILES | NOVEMBER 2022 | NEW HAVEN BIZ 8 C orporate social responsibility has evolved significantly over the past two-and-a-half years. With new remote work policies and the restructuring of the traditional "9 to 5," many corporate employers are redefining their own priorities to foster cultures that implement higher levels of diversity, equity and inclusion and promote work-life balance. Corporate employers have become more aware of how corporate social responsibility can impact their communities with positive implications for their own brands. Organizations like the Diaper Bank of Connecticut (DBCT) are here to help. Founded in 2004, DBCT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides diapers, baby formula, period supplies and incontinence products to low-income individuals and families in need throughout Connecticut. "We have been fortunate enough to partner with a number of state-based businesses and are looking to expand our array of partnerships looking into 2023," says DBCT executive director Janet Stolfi Alfano As Covid-19 takes a more endemic role in the US, executives, board members and shareholders alike are recognizing that corporate social responsibility efforts can contribute to higher employee retention rates while fostering improved corporate cultures. It's why businesses offer volunteer opportunities and donate to nonprofits like DBCT. However, finding which organizations to volunteer with, worthwhile places to donate, or who to sponsor can feel overwhelming. By supporting DBCT, corporate sponsors can rest assured that their donations will have maximum impact for families, parents and children most in need throughout Connecticut. The volume of DBCT's services and donations are proof positive of its impact and scalability. "Whether we coordinate volunteer programs, pack diapers at warehouses, or host diaper drives, we can do more when businesses offer their support," Alfano says. "When businesses offer financial support, including sponsorships, grants, or in-kind donations, our efforts multiply and positively impact more people." With added corporate sponsorships and donations, DBCT's scalability only stands to increase. "We can expand the number of locations, hire more staff, and create more opportunities to volunteer," says DBCT development manager Kimberly Spanier. "Your tax-deductible donations translate directly toward our growth and vastly improve the quality of services we provide in communities throughout the state." Working with more than 100 local partners, such as childcare centers, churches, hospitals, and food pantries, DBCT has developed relationships with families and individuals who benefit directly from its services and products. By providing basic needs like diapers and baby formula through these networks, local partners are also able to offer their services at a higher capacity. Using this model, DBCT has provided nearly 8,000 families in Connecticut with critical health products. With additional sponsors' help, that number will get even larger. While donating money or sponsoring the Diaper Bank of Connecticut clearly benefits the organization, it can also benefit your business. Conscious corporate social responsibility efforts can help attract a younger, more diverse talent pool, and build public support around your brand, all while providing essential community and social services in your domicile state. "I highly encourage corporate leaders of Connecticut to consider supporting the Diaper Bank of Connecticut to make our state a better place to live both for your employees, and New Englanders alike," Spanier says. The Diaper Bank of CT Offers Valuable Resource in the Community Address: 370 State St., North Haven, CT 06473 Phone: (203) 934-7009, ext. 114 Website: www.TheDiaperBank.org Product or Service: Diapers, period supplies and incontinence products No. of Employees: 11 Top Executives: Janet Stolfi Alfano, executive director; Kimberly Spanier, development manager Year Founded: 2004 Small team making a big impact, from left: Sharon Coling, Alicia Napierkowski, Jenny Kohl, Danae Mundy, Kimberly Spanier, Janet Stolfi Alfano, Catherine John, Tony Perez and Danielle Blackstone.

• Cover