When it comes to donating time and financial resources, I've always been most interested in projects that truly have a long-term impact on improving the community where we live and work, reducing future poverty and creating sustainable opportunity. I think it's an approach that many of us in the industry share. Nothing comes closer to that than education.

Since 2010, the U.S. K-12 edtech industry has seen a boom of venture investing in education technology. EdSurge has been “following the money” behind venture investments in U.S. K-12 edtech companies to understand the dollars--and their implications. Those investments are redefining the tools and curriculum available to schools, and will have an effect on teaching and learning -- eventually. Measurable “exits” and demonstrated outcomes for schools have been scarce so far. But here’s what we’re seeing:

In the recent Business Roundtable report, “Create, Grow, Sustain: People and Technology at Work,” CSX Chairman and CEO Michael Ward describes how the company has focused on innovative technology and systems, environmental efficiency, and community involvement in order to continue to drive sustainable business results for the long term.

In 2015, the Colorado Symphony Orchestra (CSO) performed the entire Arrow “Five Years Out” overture. This original musical composition reflects Arrow’s commitment to innovation and represents the orchestra’s expansion into creating original music. Arrow is the Symphony’s presenting sponsor for the 2016 season.

In honor of its 20th anniversary, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) announced today a targeted philanthropic strategy to help protect the planet through collaborating with leading nonprofit organizations that will help threatened wildlife and inspire a lifelong love for nature in young people. The new initiative, called “Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time,” is aimed at reversing the decline of 10 threatened species through scientific research, community collaboration, and increasing the time kids spend in nature.

Cardinal Cushing Centers recently received a $10,000 grant from the BJ’s Charitable Foundation. This grant was used to purchase a SMART Table and accompanying technology for South Shore Industries, Cushing’s employment training program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Stories like Melissa’s are why it’s more important than ever for LIVESTRONG to continue providing free programs and services to people facing cancer. Your generous support makes it all possible. And, when you make a gift today, your dollars will DOUBLE thanks to a matching gift challenge from the Shine Foundation.

The International Living Future Institute (ILFI) announced today that Anthony Guerrero, Director of Sustainability at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), will join the ILFI’s Board of Directors. Guerrero leads the development of sustainability strategies for NRDC’s core operations, and has already instituted Living Building Challenge (LBC) principles into his projects. Under his leadership, NRDC achieved LBC Petal Certifications for its Chicago and Beijing offices, and is pursuing certification for its newest expansions in Chicago and San Francisco.

Your company needs to be socially responsible because people are starting to value socially responsible companies more than ever.