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What does it mean to do business while doing good?

Writer: WINS Calgary
WINS Calgary
Jun 5, 2015
2 min read

If the purpose of traditional business is to create shareholder value and that of a charity is to raise donations to further its charitable mission, is there a third option that considers the generation of profit through business activities designed to benefit society?


A social purpose business, or social enterprise, creates value for individuals and the community – as a whole – by ‘doing business while doing good’. Women In Need Society (WINS) is a tenured social enterprise operating four retail locations in Calgary with the goal of helping women and their families to help themselves.


Local, Social and Green


WINS walks the talk by ensuring fair compensation and benefits for our employees and, based upon need, access to the very same programs and services that benefit our clients. We provide employment opportunities for adults with disabilities and employment placement for women seeking to re-enter the workforce after suffering domestic abuse, or exploitation, or seeking Canadian employment experience to improve economic self-sufficiency. We are the local choice for shoppers seeking an alternative shopping experience.


Quality, gently used or sometimes brand-new donated items are sold at just a fraction of their value when compared with mainstream retail. We are an environmentally friendly ‘green’ choice, aligned with the values of donors and consumers seeking to reduce consumption, re-use items or upcycle articles into new one-of-a-kind items.


In 2014, WINS also diverted 960,000 lbs of textiles, cardboard, plastics, metals and electronics from local landfill – and we are continuing to seek innovative ways to divert other materials.


Operating for twenty-three years, our business model has proven sustainable, creating opportunity for women and their families from donated items. We run like a business – by delivering value to our customers we create positive outcomes for the community but we do it as a charity. This formula is a win-win and I hope that you’ll agree with me by checking us out to see what’s in store!

 
 
 

12 Comments


Stickman Hook
Stickman Hook
5 days ago

I like how WINS gives donated items a second life while helping people in the community. When I have some free time, I also enjoy playing Stickman Hook for a quick break since it’s simple, fun, and easy to get into.

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Eclark Professional
Oct 15

Doing business responsibly means balancing growth with positive contributions to the community, while also ensuring that everyday operations remain ethical and transparent. Companies expanding in the UAE may need reliable support with documentation, government procedures, and regulatory requirements, which is where EBFS can be relevant. Having these administrative processes handled efficiently allows business owners to focus more on building meaningful relationships and creating lasting social value.

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ninabennett76
Oct 13

This article beautifully illustrates the balance between profit and social impact that social enterprises like WINS strive to achieve. It's inspiring to see how they provide both employment opportunities and essential services to vulnerable populations. I recently came across a web link discussing AI-powered virtual companionship, which highlights how technology can also play a role in reducing loneliness—an important aspect of community well-being. WINS' commitment to sustainability further emphasizes the importance of businesses that align with social values.

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Brown Emma
Oct 06

The winter setting of Snow Rider 3D creates the sensation of truly embarking on a high-speed skiing run, where the snowy landscape constantly shifts and the path ahead always presents unpredictable challenges.

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Jenny
Jenny
Aug 09

Salut à tous ! L'expérience utilisateur sur mobile est vraiment devenue un critère essentiel pour s'occuper pendant les déplacements quotidiens. Le problème quand on cherche une interface fluide au Canada, c'est qu'on perd souvent un temps fou à tester manuellement des dizaines de plateformes juste pour vérifier si elles sont bien optimisées. J'ai personnellement arrêté les essais à l'aveugle pour ne plus subir de ralentissements constants. La conception du Salon de jeux de Trois-Rivières permet aux différentes fonctionnalités de se charger en quelques secondes sur smartphone. Cela offre la liberté d'utiliser la plateforme rapidement pendant la pause, sans aucun décalage et en toute fluidité !

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1005 - 11 Ave SW
Calgary AB  T2R 0G1

Alberta, Canada
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In the spirit of reconciliation, WINS acknowledges that the city of Calgary is comprised of Treaty 7 territory, the traditional lands of First Nations and Métis peoples.

Charitable Registration No. 135 185 411 RR0001 

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