Page 177 - The Starbucks Experience

PRINCIPLE 5

was formed in February 1998 to provide employment oppor-
tunities, training, and quality products in economically dis-
advantaged metropolitan communities. UCO integrated the
retail strength of Starbucks with Johnson Development Cor-
poration’s expertise in stimulating opportunities in urban
areas.
Ken Lombard, who was formerly president and a partner
in Johnson Development and is now president of Starbucks
Entertainment, reflects: “That was absolutely on the cutting
edge of companies going into minority communities with a
solid commitment to doing the right thing and providing peo-
ple who live in those communities with the same quality
options that people in the suburbs have. Howard Schultz was
very enthusiastic about it; the company embraced it. And
despite skepticism from some, it turned out to be a great
162 example for retailers and other operators like Starbucks. We
went into minority communities, demonstrated profitability,
and built a significant business.”
Business partnerships like Urban Coffee Opportunities
work because they empower people to overcome adversity,
prejudice, and other negative social influences. With a sound
business model, the creation of opportunity, and a belief in
human potential, leaders encourage their people to strive for
and achieve greatness.

Giving Back: Writing Checks and Igniting Service
Community service groups and community-based organiza-
tions often need both money and volunteers to achieve their
mission and realize their goals effectively. Fortunately, every
one of us has the ability to affect, if not secure, both corpo-
rate giving and community volunteerism. Starbucks leader-