Socially Responsible Investing

For those interested in socially responsible investing, there are many resources available. One particularly helpful index is maintained by the Calvert Fund. And while Calvert deals with large, publicly traded companies, the criteria used by Calvert to establish its index are useful when considering investments in smaller NFPO's (Not For Profit Only companies) as well. The factors Calvert examines are: The subject company's impact on the Environment; Workplace issues; Product safety and impact; Community relations and impacts; Military weapons contracting; International operations and human rights; and Indigenous people's rights.

For small to medium-sized NFPOs (or those looking to become more socially responsible), several of these factors are worth considering. Internal policies and procedures, employee benefits, pay rates and incentives, procurement practices, product safety, and environmental sustainability are all important areas that need to be - and can be - addressed in a systemic, profitable fashion.

For more information on the Calvert Fund and its SRI criteria, visit them at http://www.calvertgroup.com/sri_815.html.