9.02.2005 ET

(CSRwire) After receiving numerous inquiries from companies that wish to contribute to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) has released a guide to help the global business community respond effectively.

In the aftermath of such catastrophe, companies play a crucial role in serving the needs of employees, communities and customers in the affected regions. However, many organizations have questions about how to donate cash, supplies, resources or services most effectively.

Using the United Nations' and other accepted models of disaster response and recovery, BSR provides a road map for companies to organize their responses to this devastating natural disaster. In the early stages of disaster relief, making financial contributions to reputable aid agencies is the most needed response. "However, it is through the longer-term contribution of technical expertise, infrastructure and economic investments that a company can meet the greatest human need, and most strongly affirm its commitments to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development," said Aron Cramer, CEO of BSR.

"Our hearts go out to the thousands of people affected by the devastation of Katrina. This is an immediate and critical moment for companies to both engage and expand engagement with stakeholder groups in a very meaningful way," Cramer said. "We are encouraged by the tremendous response and enthusiastic support being contributed by businesses around the globe."

BSR's Business Brief "Response to Hurricane Katrina: What Can Your Company Do?" can be downloaded at www.bsr.org. For more information, call 415-984-3200.

About BSR
BSR helps its network of leadership companies around the globe achieve success in ways that respect ethical values, people, communities and the environment. BSR also provides the latest information, training and advisory services that help make corporate social responsibility (CSR) an integral part of business strategy and operations. As a non-profit business association, BSR is uniquely positioned to promote cross-sector collaboration in ways that contribute to the advancement of corporate social responsibility and business success. For more information, visit www.bsr.org or call 415-984-3200.

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