Ch. 3 - Ethics & Social Responsibility

Ethics is defined as the moral principles or values that govern the conduct of an individual or group, as discussed briefly in previous blog entries, Celtic Football Club has had strong ethics since its foundation in 1888.

Initially the business was purely a charitable organization with the aim of raising funds for residents of the poverty stricken East of Glasgow. The club was also founded on the belief that in the midst of discrimination and tension between Catholics and Protestants, Celtic would provide a club that people of any nationality, race and any religion could support. These principles remain at the forefront of the company’s priorities to this day; as the club mission statement elucidates “To maximize all opportunities to disassociate the Club from sectarianism and bigotry of any kind. To promote Celtic as a Club for all people, regardless of gender, age, religion, race or ability.”

In terms of Social Responsibility, the business has a strong concern for society’s welfare. Nowadays the priorities of the business have changed, as a for-profit organization the  social responsibility pyramid applies, valuing economic responsibilities first, followed by legal, ethical and philanthropic. Celtic continues to place a large importance on philanthropic gestures, in line with the foundations of club 123 years ago. The company consolidates its various community based activities under the title of the Celtic Foundation, including the following initiatives:

• Football in the Community – Provides soccer coaching to underprivileged children & addresses local issues.

• Celtic Charity Fund – Has raised millions of dollars for a variety of charitable causes internationally.

• Celtic Learning Program – Provides educational assistance and tutoring.

• Celtic Against Drugs – Raises awareness and tackles lifestyle issues in Scotland.

• A multitude of anti-bigotry, anti-racism and anti-sectarianism initiatives.

Currently, Celtic is beginning to promote Celtic In the Community overseas in the U.S.A, Canada, Australia and Asia. In 2011, the main beneficiary of the Celtic Charity Fund is Teenage Cancer Trust which operates a number of hospital units throughout Scotland. An upcoming fundraiser is the annual sporting dinner featuring Celtic directors, management and first-team players: http://www.celticfc.net/newsstory?item=669

The following video provides details of Celtic Charity Fund projects both in Scotland and overseas: