ICYMI: Easterseals CEO Kendra Davenport Fast Company Op-ed: Corporate Giving as Workforce Investment: Why Smart CEOs Treat Philanthropy Like Strategy
January 5, 2026
Easterseals CEO Kendra Davenport published an op-ed in Fast Company on how business leaders can move beyond traditional philanthropy and integrate corporate giving into their organization’s strategy.
Davenport shared that purpose-driven business creates more value for employees and consumers. Investing in nonprofits that align with a corporation’s CSR goals also invests in a motivated and stronger workplace. Studies found three in four U.S. employees said they want to work for companies making a positive impact on the world, and 86% of Millennials said they’d take a pay cut to do so.
Nonprofit organizations, like Easterseals, play a critical role in supporting the conditions that allow people to work, stay healthy and build economic stability. Data found that childcare breakdowns cost U.S. businesses $122 billion annually in lost productivity. By investing in nonprofits that deliver these services, companies strengthen their talent pipelines.
Kendra Davenport, Easterseals President and CEO, said: “At Easterseals, we see the connection every day. Access to affordable childcare helps parents stay employed. Disability and workforce programs connect motivated candidates with high-demand industries. Adult day services and caregiving support make it possible for millions of Americans—especially women—to stay in the labor force while caring for family members.”
About Easterseals
Easterseals empowers all people to live independent, full lives. We make a lasting difference in the lives of 1.5 million people each year by providing essential services to children and adults with disabilities, older adults, veterans, and their families. Our national network of 70 Affiliates is trusted to provide programs customized to meet the needs of each community we serve from coast-to-coast – trust that we’ve earned over the past 100 years. We positively shape perceptions and address the evolving needs of one in four Americans with disabilities through our public education, policy, and advocacy efforts. That’s our impact. In thousands of communities across America. Learn more at https://www.easterseals.com and on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.
