Blast Internet Services (Blast), a web development company, supports environmental issues, sustainable growth, family-friendly policies, and personal empowerment. Its community involvement activities range from sponsorship of an after school program to free web services to area non-profit agencies. Its headquarters has been built in an environmentally friendly building, and its employees embrace and practice the company philosophy of ecological responsibility.
Innovation
Blast Internet Services is a web development company that supports and promotes environmental awareness, sustainability, and a healthy, affirming workplace for its employees. Blast interacts with and improves the community in a number of ways. The company initiated an after school program that is staffed by its employees on a volunteer basis; it also allows one paid hour per week for each employee’s chosen volunteer activity. Blast provides free web services to churches and other non-profits that could otherwise not afford them. The company also offers free high speed internet access in a city park to parents who are supervising their children.
In addition to community outreach efforts, Blast has constructed an environmentally friendly building for its headquarters, and its employees are active participants in recycling programs and the use of alternative fuel sources. Blast has achieved success by paying attention to a “triple bottom line” of People, Planet and Profits.
Impact
Blast has integrated sustainability and social responsibility into the core of its business operations. Following its philosophy of giving back to the community through education and technology, the company has made numerous positive contributions to individuals and organizations in the area. Bret Pedigo, the company’s president, believes that focusing locally has helped build a solid relationship with the community. His own commitment is echoed by employees, who are encouraged to take ideas directly to him, and become involved at many levels in the place they call home.
Inspiration
Blast Internet Services was one of nine recipients of the 2004 North Carolina Sustainability Award. Bret Pedigo has created an environment that empowers employees by inviting them to share ideas and become involved in the local community. The positive work environment – where suggestions are encouraged and serving others is valued – results in happier, more productive employees. In discussing the impact a small business can have, Pedigo states: “A lot of these things can be done and have such a positive effect, not only on the community, but on the bottom line.”
The World Inquiry editorial team edited this profile from the original submission of the interviewer or other source. The views expressed do not necessarily represent Case Western Reserve University, the Weatherhead School of Management or the Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit. More >>
