, COM2611
PORTFOLIO SEMESTER 1
DUE DATE: 19 MAY 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Discuss any two (2) relevant CSR responsibilities that McDonald’s abided by when
donating desks. (10)
1.1.1 Philanthropic Responsibility
Philanthropic responsibility refers to voluntary corporate actions aimed at contributing to the
welfare of society without any legal obligation or direct financial return. In this case,
McDonald’s donation of desks reflects a clear example of corporate philanthropy because the
organisation is actively investing in improving educational conditions in under-resourced
schools. According to Carroll’s CSR Pyramid, philanthropic responsibility represents the highest
level of CSR, where companies contribute to social good beyond their core business operations
(Carroll, 1991).
The donation of desks addresses a fundamental infrastructural challenge in many
disadvantaged schools, where learners often lack adequate classroom furniture. This negatively
affects concentration, classroom discipline, and overall academic performance. By providing
desks, McDonald’s helps create a more structured and dignified learning environment, which
supports improved educational outcomes and learner wellbeing.
From a broader CSR perspective, philanthropic actions also strengthen corporate reputation
and stakeholder trust. Businesses that engage in visible community upliftment are often
perceived as socially responsible and caring, which enhances brand equity and long-term
sustainability (Kotler & Lee, 2005). Although the primary goal is social impact, such initiatives
also contribute to positive public relations and stakeholder goodwill.
PORTFOLIO SEMESTER 1
DUE DATE: 19 MAY 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Discuss any two (2) relevant CSR responsibilities that McDonald’s abided by when
donating desks. (10)
1.1.1 Philanthropic Responsibility
Philanthropic responsibility refers to voluntary corporate actions aimed at contributing to the
welfare of society without any legal obligation or direct financial return. In this case,
McDonald’s donation of desks reflects a clear example of corporate philanthropy because the
organisation is actively investing in improving educational conditions in under-resourced
schools. According to Carroll’s CSR Pyramid, philanthropic responsibility represents the highest
level of CSR, where companies contribute to social good beyond their core business operations
(Carroll, 1991).
The donation of desks addresses a fundamental infrastructural challenge in many
disadvantaged schools, where learners often lack adequate classroom furniture. This negatively
affects concentration, classroom discipline, and overall academic performance. By providing
desks, McDonald’s helps create a more structured and dignified learning environment, which
supports improved educational outcomes and learner wellbeing.
From a broader CSR perspective, philanthropic actions also strengthen corporate reputation
and stakeholder trust. Businesses that engage in visible community upliftment are often
perceived as socially responsible and caring, which enhances brand equity and long-term
sustainability (Kotler & Lee, 2005). Although the primary goal is social impact, such initiatives
also contribute to positive public relations and stakeholder goodwill.
