Socially Responsible Investing

Want to use your money to help make the world a better place?

A growing number of investors are putting their money where their hopes and dreams are as part of the growing responsible-investing movement. Responsible investing offers a wide variety of mutual fund choices for those looking to help the world and have a say in where their money is going.

These funds typically steer clear of companies involved in such activities as nuclear power, gambling and arms production. Others avoid investing in companies that may be engaged in activities considered to be environmentally harmful or are suspected of using child labor or neglecting basic worker rights. Some socially responsible mutual funds direct their investments towards businesses that share their goals while avoiding those which do not. Others try to use their financial clout to change the way companies conduct business.

In response to growing demand, many socially responsible funds are investing in "green energy" companies that promote solar and wind power, fuel conservation, mass transit and sustainable agriculture. Others avoid dealing companies in defense or weapons related products or those receiving revenue from tobacco, liquor, or gambling related activities.

The Strebel Planning Group indentifies investments that engage in meaningful community service, corporate governance, diversity and employee relations and also have commendable environmental and human rights behavior.