How Home Depot and ANN Inc. Practice Social Responsibility

In addition to the good will ANN Inc. is creating in the community with its charitable efforts, the retailer's bottom line is benefiting as well. Astorga cited increased business efficiencies, cost savings and improved employee engagement since launching ANN Cares 360.

Companies should view social responsibility as an opportunity to differentiate their brand and gain a competitive advantage, Astorga said. ANN Inc. has built a separate corporate social responsibility website to promote its good deeds to consumers.