Empowering Women through African Pentecostal Corporate Social Responsibility

Abstract

This paper considers how women may be empowered through African Pentecostal Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by examining ways organizations use CSR to develop their images in society with social welfare work beyond statutory compliance. Referencing practices described in narratives of the Gospels and Acts and combining critical analysis of historical documents with key informant interviews, the project analyzes the Christ Apostolic Church, Missionary Headquarters, Ita Baale Olugbode, Ibadan, to discover and assess its regular programs of CSR. Specifically, the author uses collected data to determine answers the following questions about Christ Apostolic Church: In what programs is the church involved that address social challenges in communities they serve? How effective are these programs? Does the church have a deliberate policy to address community social issues? Is the policy evident as a guide for the church in CSR matters? How does the church’s CSR policy impact women? Key words: Empowerment, Pentecostal, CSR