The Collective Action Network
A Makerspace
This is your place to collaborate with leading researchers and practitioners, using the latest findings to elevate your CSR initiatives and achieve tangible outcomes.
Bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and real-world impact with the RWI Collective Action Network (CAN). Connect with fellow practitioners and innovators, where cutting-edge research meets trend-setting initiatives. Together, we transform insights and theories into practical actions, driving progress in corporate citizenship. Here, forward-thinking ideas don’t just stay on paper—they turn into tangible, meaningful outcomes that make a difference.
THREE TYPES
OF INVOLVEMENT
-
Practitioners actively contributing to drive the field forward. Collaborators join in community discussions, share insights, collaborate on projects, and participate in learning opportunities like webinars and workshops.
-
This role is by invite only. “Creators” are people who are ‘making things happen’ in social impact. They contribute to the makerspace by leading webinars, mentoring contributors, and driving projects that tackle social challenges within the community.
-
Companies can join as members for an annual fee, allowing their teams to access community resources, participate in events, and collaborate on problem-solving through labs. More than just financial supporters, Amplifiers leverage their resources, influence, and strategic expertise to magnify the impact of creators and collaborators, ensuring that transformative initiatives reach broader audiences and achieve deeper societal change.
The Gap We Bridge
Problem Statement:
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and prosocial behavior are often caught in a disconnect. While research provides invaluable insights into effective practices, these theories frequently remain isolated from day-to-day business operations. Practitioners face challenges in accessing the right knowledge and struggle to apply it in a way that drives measurable impact. This gap results in missed opportunities for both businesses and communities.
Solution Overview:
RWI CAN directly addresses this challenge by acting as a conduit between research and practice. We create a space where the latest academic findings, industry trends, and pioneering ideas are distilled into practical tools and strategies that CSR professionals can use. By facilitating structured collaboration between researchers and practitioners, we ensure that theoretical knowledge is translated into actionable steps, making a tangible difference in workplaces and communities alike.
Why:
This approach ensures that research isn't just theoretical—it becomes a driving force behind real-world change, positioning CAN as a vital resource for both seasoned CSR leaders and emerging professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of the field.
How it Works
Connecting Practitioners and Researchers:
At the heart of CAN is a collaborative process that brings together CSR professionals, academics, and thought leaders. Through regular forums, webinars, and workshops, we facilitate direct conversations between those generating cutting-edge research and those looking to apply it. This two-way exchange ensures that ideas are refined through practical feedback, making them more relevant and impactful.
Communities of Practice:
Our network is built around specialized communities of practice, each led by experts who guide discussions and collaborations. Whether it’s the AI in Corporate Citizenship community or the Nudges Community focused on behavioral science, our communities provide targeted support, helping members implement specific strategies in areas that matter most to them.
Accessible Insights:
CAN makes it easy to access the latest scientific discoveries and insights. We curate research, case studies, and expert analysis into digestible resources, making them available through our online platforms. Our members receive curated content and attend exclusive sessions, ensuring they stay updated on emerging trends without the burden of wading through academic jargon.
Why:
This model not only ensures knowledge transfer but creates an environment where members can experiment, learn, and innovate together. It’s not just about knowing what works; it’s about making it work in the real world.
Benefits of Joining
For Practitioners:
Access to the Latest Research and Technologies: Stay ahead with cutting-edge insights on CSR, employee engagement, and social impact measurement. CAN’s resources help you apply the newest findings directly within your organization.
Improved Efficiency and Efficacy in Programs: Use evidence-based strategies to fine-tune your CSR initiatives, ensuring they deliver maximum impact. Collaborate with peers and researchers to tackle challenges, enhance program design, and achieve better outcomes.
For Academics and Researchers:
Opportunity to See Theories Applied in Real-World Settings: Gain valuable feedback on your research by seeing how your theories translate into practice. CAN provides a unique opportunity to observe your work’s impact within diverse organizational contexts.
Collaboration with Industry Professionals: Work directly with practitioners who are implementing your research, providing a practical perspective that can shape future studies. Collaborate on projects that advance both academic knowledge and business practices.