Twentieth-century American economist Milton Friedman, when discussing corporate social responsibility, wrote that a business should “use its resources and engage in activities designed to increase its profits so long as it stays within the rules of the game.” Simon Sinek, bestselling author of Start With Why and Leaders Eat Last, analyzed the idea of shareholder value in the latter, emphasizing its focus on the owner’s wealth rather than the primacy of the customer or any other social responsibility. He argues that the owner’s prosperity will incentivize investment in the economy by generating employment. Historically, however, the theory has been proven faulty, leading to the demise of companies that focus solely on shareholder value above all else. 

Today’s political climate is defined by global conversations regarding change and the transnational democracy sparked by the unfettered sharing of ideas on the Internet. In this discourse, the idea of ruthless business strategies is increasingly challenged in favor of a more socially conscious approach. The concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is no longer a rarity practiced by a select few; it is now a requirement for many consumers. In particular, the younger generation is taking an active interest in the values, sources, and partnerships of an organization—not just its products. Companies need to realize the power of social responsibility and its effects on their reputation and customer base.

Social Impact Is Business Savvy

Target markets are becoming increasingly conscious about the values and behaviors of companies they support. Cancel culture and boycotts over social media illustrate how today’s customers react to companies that fail to align with their ethical values.

In May 2024, the popular dating app Bumble launched a billboard ad with the tagline, “You know full well a vow of celibacy is not the answer.” This marketing ploy led to consumers calling out Bumble for shaming women who choose celibacy, including viral calls for #BoycottBumble. Bumble quickly pulled the ad and even pledged to donate to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and other organizations that support women. The situation exhibits the behavior, reaction, and power of consumers when brands misstep in social conversations, whether directly or indirectly. 

The good news is that making a positive social impact and running a profitable business are not opposing positions. In fact, taking CSR seriously can boost the bottom line and set businesses up for success. Partnering with socially conscious vendors that represent minorities, for example, can help organizations tap into new markets and enhance business growth. Similarly, aligning with a target market’s values can help in building a loyal customer base. 

Businesses aren’t immobile entities. They are built by real people with their own sets of beliefs and values. Business leaders have the opportunity to set the tone for their legacy by deciding how their business impacts society.

Girl Power USA’s Commitment

Corporate social responsibility does not have to be complicated. At Girl Power USA, we are committed to revolutionizing opportunities for social impact. We believe that balancing profit and purpose is natural rather than counterintuitive.

We serve as partners for Businesses Who Care and want to extend their business activities to create an impact in the world. We provide the expertise, resources, and experiences for businesses to implement CSR and impact initiatives. 

Our work is defined by transparency and collaboration. We align our projects with your visions or craft new ones in the areas where you want to create change. Our team works on the ground to ensure your vision is brought to life so you can witness the change you create. We also carefully document our process and impact for your legacy and serve as an inspiration for others to participate.

Optimum Energy Partner’s Focus on Giving Back

Optimum Energy Partners manifests the notion of a Business Who Cares with Girl Power USA. As a monthly corporate sponsor, they are a testament to how all industries and organizations can invest in creating a brighter future with the right partners. 

Optimum Energy Partners is an independent oil and natural gas company involved in the acquisition, development, exploration, and production of energy resources. With over 100 wells and more than 60 consecutive successful drilling projects, the organization has built a reputation for consistent investor returns and responsible resource development. However, Optimum Energy Partners is driven by something more than shareholder value: Optimum’s core values include RIDER (respect, integrity, dedication, excellence, and responsibility). Optimum Energy Partners is committed to creating value in a responsible manner.

Part of this responsibility is exemplified by how they conduct business and serve clients. The other part is how they choose to reinvest their profits into a mission they care about. With the support of Optimum Energy Partners, Girl Power USA has invested in projects that upskill and empower women to dream big. 

With Optimum Energy Partner’s contribution, we have continued to scale our education program, providing scholarships to female students in Nigeria, Uganda, and India. Optimum’s sponsorship also enables us to collaborate with our partners on a period poverty action program. With the support of such organizations, Girl Power USA’s team can continue to make an impact in their communities by buying children meals, providing uniforms to government schools, and spreading kindness through small actions that compound over time. 

Building A Legacy: Derrick May

The president and CEO of Optimum Energy, Derrick May, is a thought leader in the energy sector with over 21 years of industry experience. But beyond being a steward in his business, Derrick is also a girl dad. His commitment to giving back with Girl Power USA is personal: “I want my daughters to grow up knowing that I have always been there for them and for girls all over the world.” 

Derrick wants to build a legacy of compassionate outreach for his daughters. He is invested in doing his part to achieve gender equality. He does this not only for the optics or for his personal ethics, but also because he wants to create a better world for his girls; he believes that taking action is the best way to do so. Through Derrick May’s altruism, today Girl Power USA is able to help girls in Africa and Asia fulfill their dreams and reach their fullest potential. They, in turn, uplift their entire community and show the next generation what is possible. 

Businesses have the power to shape not just our economy, but society as a whole. Optimum Energy Partners, led by Derrick May, is an example of how businesses from any industry, including energy, can and should invest in social impact. 

In an ever-changing world, businesses that adapt to the growing consumer demand for ethical investments, partnerships, and contributions gain an edge while becoming part of the movement that is shaping a better future for all. 

If your business wants to make a difference but does not have the resources to implement projects or is unsure where to start, Girl Power USA can be a perfect fit for you. Reach out to us so we can start creating a better world, together.

1- Who is Derrick May?

Derrick May is the Chief Executive Officer of Optimum Energy Partners LLC, an independent oil and natural gas company based in Dallas, Texas. He assumed this role in April 2021 and brings over 21 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Optimum Energy Partners focuses on the acquisition, development, exploration, and production of energy resources, and has participated in over 100 wells, distributing $7.5 million to investors in 2024 alone.

2- What inspired Derrick May to partner with Girl Power USA?

Derrick May, CEO of Optimum Energy Partners, was inspired by his role as a father to daughters and is making a conscious effort to create a more equitable world for them. His personal values align with Girl Power USA’s effort to empower and uplift young women globally. Through this partnership, he channels his business success into meaningful social change.

3- What is Girl Power USA?

Girl Power USA is a nonprofit organization uplifting youth in underserved communities across Africa and Asia. It provides scholarships, combats period poverty, and supports leadership development. Through global partnerships, like with Optimum Energy Partners, GPUSA helps girls empower their communities.