Case Studies
Giving Back to the CommunityBelcorp's three brands – Cyzone, Esika, and L"Bel – each fund a different social responsibility program targeted to its consumer. The bulk of this work is carried out through Belcorp's foundation. Aware of the crucial role of women in its operations and of the persistent barriers they continue to face in society, Belcorp decided to expand its support to women through a philanthropic arm. The Belcorp Foundation was established in 2003 to further the company's goal of empowering women to take control of their lives and assume their role as change agents in society. "Build women's capabilities so they can imagine a better future and make it happen" is the Foundation's purpose. Cyzone, focused on teenagers and younger women consumers, funds programs and publications to educate teenagers on eating disorders and healthy living. The Esika brand funds the Foundation's flagship Great Women program, providing skills to women so that they can become independently productive. "This is a two year personal development program that promotes the personal, social and economic empowerment of low income women in the region," Eduardo explains. Each year, more than 1,500 women enroll. They start with a three-day retreat on confidence-building and goal-setting. Over the following two years, participants reconvene to complete a program organized into sixteen modules, covering topics from health to education and from household finances to domestic violence. To ensure impact sustainability, the program supports the creation and strengthening of women's grassroots organizations and networks that can continue the work initiated through this program after the training ends. "We believe that women's networks are a must when it comes to women's development. Networking and confidence building among women is crucial for them in order to advance, since they need the support of each other," says Daniella Barbieri, Corporate Manager of the Belcorp Foundation.
To ensure expansion and the sustainability of its commitment to educating women in Latin America, the Belcorp Foundation works closely with local and regional non-profit organizations. Currently, the Foundation runs programs in ten countries, and it aims to expand its presence to all fifteen countries. |
Belcorp's most high-end brand, L"Bel, offers educational scholarships to young and teenage girls throughout the region, including primary, secondary and university education, depending on each country's needs. In 2009, more than 840 young girls received scholarships. 
