Social Mission

Mundell & Associates began its operations in 1995 as part of a worldwide economic initiative now known as The Economy of Communion. The Economy of Communion (EOC) promotes a commitment by business owners to operate their businesses both for profit and for the benefit of society. This innovative proposal was launched in 1991 by an Italian woman named Chiara Lubich, leader of a worldwide organization called the Focolare Movement.

Those who participate are concerned about the negative effects of the “culture of having” that dominates society and sometimes inadvertently marginalizes people. To promote a “culture of giving” which creates an all-inclusive, healthier, happier society, both profits and needs are shared within the EOC in an atmosphere of mutual support and trust.

The people who benefit from the profits of the businesses (i.e., those who are in need), assume an active role. Receiving takes on the same value as giving. The need is a contribution that is offered in full dignity and fraternity.

In 2014 alone the EOC’s ‘culture of giving’ provided help for about 2,000 families in need, despite tough economic conditions faced in many countries throughout the world. Additionally, the formation of young entrepreneurs is supported through various initiatives and summer schools around the globe where participants learn about and develop business projects that bring about this new way of economic action.

Today, over 850 businesses in 60 countries participate in the Economy of Communion.

Below, John Mundell talks about the Economy of Communion and how it is implemented at Mundell and Associates.

The Company Cube

As a part of the Economy of Communion, Mundell helped develop a practical tool for living the values of the ‘culture of giving’ in the workplace. The Company Cube^®, a new cooperative strategy for small business success, is now used in businesses around the world. Its objective is to transform work environments and bring about social change through daily, decision-making and action. Each morning, workers roll the cube and get a phrase to put into practice for the day. Physical cubes (for purchase), apps on Google Play and the App Store and a interactive cube on the website (free) are available to anyone who wishes to participate.

Internships

Each year we host interns from around the world who participate in a unique work experience. Through their work at Mundell, interns see first-hand how a company puts this culture of giving into practice. The students have their own chance to work on projects that benefit not only the company goals and objectives, but also focus on the needs of the local community – organizing environmentally-themed movie nights, participating in a city ‘water run,’ visiting schools to talk about rain gardens, and even spending evenings at the local open mic night. Former intern Samuel Rocha, shares his experience in a short student profile from the Sophia Institute.

If you are interested in applying for an Economy of Communion internship please read the EoC Intern Program Summary and then fill out this application form.