Maurice Baker explains why businesses must go beyond the bottom line to truly strengthen communities.
What is your name, job title, and role at Georgia Natural Gas?
Maurice Baker
Manager, Community Relations
Georgia Natural Gas
In this role, I oversee charitable giving, nonprofit sponsorships, volunteerism, and employee engagement. I also support media relations at local television affiliates and communications efforts.
How would you define community service, and why is it personally meaningful to you?
At its core, community service is really about addressing the needs of those around us – where we live, work, and operate. In the case of Georgia Natural Gas, we have an amazing opportunity to collaborate with dynamic nonprofit organizations that have a true understanding of local challenges and contribute to positive change. Whether it’s cleaning the Chattahoochee River, or updating local schools, each effort plays a vital role in fostering a stronger community and showing that we care.
What are Georgia Natural Gas’ goals when it comes to community impact?
Community impact can manifest itself as a positive or negative. At Georgia Natural Gas, we are deeply committed to ensuring that our contributions lead to positive outcomes. This is why we invest nearly $2 million each year in local community initiatives. Our goal is not only to support our neighbors and local organizations — but also to develop innovative opportunities for efforts like recycling and offsetting carbon usage through our Greener Life program. We chose to be a force for good in the communities we serve.
Are there specific focus areas or causes that GNG prioritizes in its community investment efforts?
1. Children and Education: We are committed to supporting programs that provide educational resources and opportunities for children, ensuring that they have the tools they need for a brighter future.
2. Seniors: Most seniors want to live independent lives. Our seniors deserve special attention and care, and we strive to offer support services that enhance their quality of life and well-being. Our hope is that they can remain independent, and in their homes, as long as possible.
3. Energy Assistance: Though natural gas prices are typically lower than they were a couple of decades ago, we recognize that energy costs can still be challenging for some families; all it takes is the loss of a job or a devastating health crisis. By supporting energy assistance organizations, we aim to alleviate some of those burdens.
4. Environment/Sustainability: Protecting our planet is a priority for GNG. We actively engage in sustainable practices and initiatives that promote environmental stewardship within our communities.
Why do you believe it’s important for businesses to support the communities they serve?
Often, when I speak to an audience, I recite the words of the economist Milton Friedman who famously stated, “the business of business is business.” It sounds archaic, doesn’t it? That perspective suggests that corporate responsibility is only about the bottom line, maximizing revenue and delivering results for shareholders. However, as we’ve seen over the last 30 years, this notion has evolved.
Today, consumers, communities, and employees increasingly expect businesses to embrace a broader social responsibility. There is a growing call for companies to contribute positively to the communities they serve. This includes making commitments to environmental sustainability and ensuring that we leave our communities better off than when we entered them.
How does community engagement align with Georgia Natural Gas’s broader business objectives?
A few years ago, we embarked on a journey to deepen our commitment to sustainability by building on our existing efforts focused on recycling and cleaner commutes. These initiatives were the precursor to the development of Greener Life, our carbon offset program. It’s designed for both residential customers and businesses. Greener Life is aligned with the goal of making energy usage outcomes carbon neutral. Natural Gas is still the cleanest, most efficient fossil fuel. Now, you can feel even better about it through Greener Life. And I am proud to share that we have reached an incredible milestone — 750 million pounds of carbon emissions offset from the atmosphere. GNG has also enhanced Greener Life to give customers the benefits of Certified Low Emissions gas at no additional cost.
What led to the partnership between GNG and New American Pathways?
First, it’s important to acknowledge the incredible work being done by New American Pathways in supporting the refugee community. We’ve witnessed families from nearly every corner of the globe receiving a fresh new start right here in Atlanta, away from the tribulations of war and political persecution. The strong leadership at New American Pathways has clearly recognized the immense value that hardworking families bring to our communities. We’re proud of our associated colleagues like James Anderson who serves on the board of directors of New America Pathways.
How does this partnership reflect or strengthen GNG’s mission and values?
I am reminded of our guiding motto: “Working Together, Serving Together.” This phrase has become more than just words; it represents the essence of our mission and is proudly displayed on t-shirts and throughout our numerous commercials.
I am particularly proud of our partnership with New American Pathways. This collaboration allows us to impact communities that we might not normally have access to. Their dedication and tireless efforts to support those in need resonates with our mission and values.
What advice would you give to other businesses looking to implement community engagement strategies?
That is a big question! I have been fortunate to lead workshops on community engagement strategies at some major conferences, and I want to share some insights that may be beneficial to other businesses.
My advice would be to develop specific focus areas that resonate with your business goals. For instance, if you own a restaurant, addressing food insecurity could be a meaningful avenue for community involvement.
Additionally, I encourage you to communicate these opportunities clearly with your colleagues and invite them to participate actively. Moreover, sharing your efforts with customers promotes transparency and strengthens community ties.
Approach these opportunities with intention, treating them as integral parts of your business strategy.
What are some ways GNG encourages employees to get involved in giving back?
For many years now, we have provided workday opportunities for colleagues to engage in community service. These opportunities might be at a senior center or a local school. We also have team-based projects specifically cultivated for different departments. It’s a great team-building opportunity for many managers. We also support projects that matter to our colleagues – sponsorship of a little league team, or sponsorship of a cause-related walk that is important to them.
