The majority of education-related corporate philanthropy programs are well intentioned, so until an objective is identified, all programs look like a good fit. Developing a lens through which to evaluate each program is critical to success and maximizing impact.

While a scattershot approach, i.e., investing in multiple but unrelated programs, may make everyone feel that their personal opinions or objectives have been addressed, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on educational outcomes—or the internal goals of the organization.

This Council Perspectives includes steps companies should take to pinpoint the best corporate philanthropy programs, and questions leaders should ask while doing so.