# Leading the Change in Corporate Social Responsibility with Kelem Butts: Tackling Health & Educational Challenges in a Disrupted World

By Ron Stefanski · Published 2024-11-19 · Updated 2026-05-19 · Education Technology on MarketScale
Canonical: https://www.marketscale.com/industries/education-technology/leading-change-csr-kelem-butts-health-education-challenges
Creator hub: DisruptED

> Pivoting corporate giving strategies requires leaders who understand both business transformation and community impact

## Key points

- Corporate giving strategies must adapt to address intersecting health and education challenges in disrupted environments.
- Effective CSR requires leaders who understand both business transformation and measurable community impact.
- Bridging the gap between corporate investment and community needs demands intentional, outcomes-driven approaches.

Block Field

In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies are rapidly evolving, adapting to new challenges is paramount. As digital transformation accelerates societal shifts, organizations like **United Way of Metropolitan Dallas** are at the forefront of addressing critical issues, from education to economic mobility. This episode of [*DisruptED*](https://marketscale.com/shows/disrupted/) dives into the dynamic world of CSR with **Kelem Butts**, who transitioned from a 20-year career at **AT&T** to lead impactful initiatives at United Way.

What does it take to [pivot CSR strategies](https://www.forbes.com/sites/esade/2022/12/01/the-end-of-csr-as-we-know-it-and-the-rise-of-businesses-with-a-conscience/) in a rapidly disrupted world? And how can organizations balance resource reallocation while maintaining their mission?

In the second episode of this two-part series on *DisruptED*, host [Ron J. Stefanski](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronjstefanski/) delves into the evolution of CSR with [Kelem Butts](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelem-butts-390b17a/), Vice President of CSR Strategy at [United Way of Metropolitan Dallas](https://unitedwaydallas.org/). The conversation explores career rewirement, strategic pivots, and creating measurable impact. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of aligning corporate and nonprofit goals to address pressing community needs.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

– **Strategic Pivoting in CSR:** Insights into how AT&T shifted focus from upskilling to addressing the digital divide during COVID-19 and how this transformation inspired Kelem’s career shift.

– **Measurable Impact in Education and Income Mobility:** United Way's data-driven approach to tackling issues like third-grade literacy rates and increasing living wages in Dallas.

– **Adapting to Disruption:** The evolution of career navigation programs to meet workforce demands in a tech-driven, globally interdependent economy.

### About the Guest

**Kelem Butts** is a thought leader in CSR with over two decades of experience. He previously spearheaded transformative initiatives at AT&T and now drives strategic efforts at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, focusing on education, income, and health. A passionate advocate for social impact, Kelem combines his corporate expertise with a nonprofit lens to deliver lasting change.

Tags: AT&T, CSR strategies, DisruptED, Kelem Butts, Ron J Stefanski, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas

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