In a world where consumer choices carry significant weight, opting for socially conscious businesses has never been more critical. San Diego, known for being diverse, forward-thinking and compassionate, provides the perfect opportunity for exploring why aligning your spending with your values not only benefits the community but also enriches your personal life.
According to a report by the IBM Institute for Business Value, purpose-driven consumers, who choose products and brands based on how well they align to their values, now represent the largest segment (44%) of consumers. In response to this evolving consumer demand for transparency and purpose in business, Better Business Bureau (BBB) identified an opportunity to enhance trust and spotlight businesses doing good in their communities through their new social responsibilityBBB4Good Trustmark.
BBB4Good offers a pathway to make informed decisions about where to spend your money. Its new “purpose-driven” search option allows consumers to seek out businesses additionally aligning their missions with causes. Building upon BBB Accreditation, those that have had their social good initiatives vetted against the BBB4Good Standards are identified on their BBB.org business profiles with the BBB4Good Trustmark along with a description of their impact.
By choosing a BBB4Good verified business, you not only get products and services delivered with integrity, you also support a company dedicated to making a difference.
The power of philanthropic spending
Spending money is a powerful act. Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. When you choose to support businesses that prioritize social responsibility, you contribute to a ripple effect that can lead to substantial positive change. Philanthropic spending is especially vital in areas like San Diego, where local businesses are deeply intertwined with the community.
By supporting these businesses, you help create a sustainable and ethical local economy, foster quality job creation and encourage businesses to continue their socially conscious efforts.
BBB4Good: The value of being a purpose-driven business
Being purpose-driven isn’t just good for our community; it’s also good for business. Companies who prioritize social responsibility often enjoy enhanced brand loyalty, increased customer trust, and better employee retention. Purpose-driven businesses are more likely to attract like-minded partners and investors who share their values.
Over the past year, BBB4Good has seen significant interest, with hundreds of businesses in the Greater Arizona and Southern California expressing a desire to join the movement. Of these, a select 30 have met the standards to earn the prestigious BBB4Good Trustmark, including 14 in San Diego County.
For business owners looking to align their operations with a greater purpose and achieve BBB4Good verification, here are five essential tips to get started:
Define Your Purpose: Identify and commit to a cause that resonates with your business values and personal passions. This could range from environmental sustainability to supporting vulnerable populations. A clear purpose will guide your decisions and inspire your team and customers.
Set Actionable Goals: Align your efforts with local partners. Establish clear goals and action plans that demonstrate your commitment to your chosen cause, like donating proceeds, volunteering or being a vocal champion. Partnering with credible organizations can amplify your impact and provide additional resources and support.
Engage Your Stakeholders: Encourage your staff to participate in your social responsibility initiatives. By involving employees, business partners or organizations you work closely with in your purpose-driven efforts, you foster a sense of ownership and motivation that can enhance workplace morale and productivity.
Empower Your Employees: Empower your employees to contribute ideas and initiatives that align with your company’s purpose. Including your employees in these conversations encourages them to share in your commitment to the greater good.
Communicate Your Efforts: Transparently communicate your social responsibility activities to your customers and stakeholders. Use various platforms to share your progress, successes, and challenges. Authentic communication builds trust and encourages others to support your cause.
Setting your course
San Diegians have come together in recent years to create a platform for businesses and nonprofits to collaborate and spark change. This year, Better Business Bureau and BBB4Good are proud to support and host a number of local thought leadership opportunities to gather, share best practices and set a course for success. Join us and let’s get moving, together!
Business For Good Summit on September 25, 2024. Join local professionals, business owners, and nonprofit advocates looking to connect with other values-led organizations, to be inspired to make a difference.
Ignite Your Purpose on October 3, 2024: Discover the transformative power of mission-driven, values-based organizations and the vital role of localism in San Diego. For an intimate and impactful evening, this unique event brings together two outstanding leaders, Bob Dalton, Founder of Sackcloth and Ashes, and Jordan Verdin, Founder of Humanity Showers. Event details coming soon at events.bbbcommunity.org.
Cause Conference on October 23, 2024: Join local businesses and thought leaders looking to cultivate stronger alliances and shared purpose towards making significant positive social change that also increases collective social impact.
Responsible AI Summit: Innovate with Impact with BBB andConscious Capitalism on November 13, 2024: Discover how AI can be a force for good, driving sustainable business growth and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability to enhance your purpose-driven efforts. Event details here.
Conscious Curiosity Podcast: Provides insight and inspiration from San Diego’s CEOs and Founders who bring purpose to their work and are proving business can positively change the communities we work and live in.
The impact of being purpose-driven
San Diego businesses have a unique opportunity to lead by example, showcasing how integrating social responsibility into spending and operational practices can drive positive change.
As consumer expectations continue to evolve, the importance of showcasing purpose-driven businesses through the BBB4Good Trustmark will only help our community grow, making your choices today pivotal for a better tomorrow.
For more information on BBB4Good and to find businesses that align with your values, visit BBB.org/bbb4good. By choosing ethically, you’re not only enhancing your personal journey but also contributing to a community and a world that values integrity, transparency, and social responsibility. Make the conscious choice today and be a part of something greater.
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Studio S
OCTOBER 22, 2026
Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel Their Homes
The San Diego home remodeling company works on full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, ADUs, garages, landscapes, and hardscapes.
Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.
“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”
Courtesy of Milan Design
Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.
At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.
Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.
At any given time, there are roughly 200 research investigations and clinical trials being conducted at Scripps Health in as many as 25 medical specialties. Research and patient care go hand-in-hand at Scripps. Those studies can be categorized as clinical trials of a medication or device that are conducted by Scripps physicians and studies designed by Scripps’ physicians and clinicians. Click here to learn about three exciting studies underway at Scripps and the benefits to patients.
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Scripps has recently unveiled new features in the MyScripps patient portal and mobile app to help patients connect with their primary care team and simplify the payment process. Among the recent updates is the addition of primary care E-visits for minor conditions. Patients who have an established primary care physician can schedule an E-visit, complete an online questionnaire and, if needed, send a photo. Their doctor can then advise and prescribe medication, when appropriate. Autopay is also now available through MyScripps. Patients can enable or disable autopay, allowing them to more easily manage payments. Learn more about MyScripps and how it helps patients stay connected here.
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Farrah Adams had a persistent dull ache in her lower back that her massage therapist suggested might be caused by the way she sat or drove. That explanation seemed reasonable, but when coupled with heavy, painful periods led the then 46-year-old to seek answers. When she looks back on it now, she’s beyond grateful she trusted her gut. She made an appointment with a Scripps OB-GYN, who determined she had Stage 3 cervical cancer that had spread to several lymph nodes. Farrah was overwhelmed, but immediately found a “champion” in Scripps Clinic gynecologic oncologist Jo Marie Tran Janco, MD. After undergoing successful treatment at Scripps Cancer Center, Farrah is now using her story to inspire other women to make time for care. Read more of her story here.
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Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November
This year’s theme, 'Impact Through Philanthropy,’ spotlights the impact of individuals, businesses and community organizations throughout San Diego County.
“Impact through Philanthropy isn’t just a theme; it’s what we see every day in San Diego’s diverse communities,” said Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP, AFP San Diego chapter president. “The honorees show what’s possible when intention meets generosity, leadership and dedication come together. We’re honored to celebrate the honorees alongside our presenting sponsor, PNC Bank.”
“Philanthropy is one of San Diego’s great strengths—not just because of this community’s generosity, but because of what happens when people unite around the belief that our region can be better,” said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation and Honorary Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day. “National Philanthropy Day lets us recognize the donors, volunteers, fundraisers, and organizations who turn that belief into action, strengthening lives throughout our community. Celebrating them reminds us all of the extraordinary power we have when we work together.”
Eleven honorees, including eight individuals and three organizations, were selected from scores of nominees submitted from throughout San Diego County. Honorees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by AFP San Diego’s Honorary Committee.
2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:
Outstanding Development Professional, Emerging Leader – Miguel Lopez, CFRE (San Diego Foundation)
Outstanding Development Professional, Mid-Career – Amie Brown, CFRM (Meals on Wheels San Diego County)
Outstanding Development Professional, Career Achievement – David Hanses (Scripps Institution of Oceanography)
Outstanding Organization, IDEA – The San Diego LGBT Community Center
Outstanding Grantmaking Organization – David C. Copley Foundation
Outstanding Philanthropic Business or Corporation – Maya’s Cookies
Outstanding Student Volunteer – Chris Zheng (Casa de Amistad)
Outstanding Volunteer – Dr. Suzanne Afflalo (A Healthier Me)
Outstanding Volunteer – Fred Davis (Serving Seniors)
Outstanding Philanthropists – Mel & Linda Katz
Special Lifetime Achievement Award – Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP
National Philanthropy Day Supports AFP San Diego’s Empower Fund
Beyond recognizing local philanthropic leadership, National Philanthropy Day supports the Empower Fund, powered by U.S. Bank, which provides scholarships, educational opportunities and professional development for nonprofit leaders.
In its inaugural year, AFP San Diego raised $28,000 for the Empower Fund through National Philanthropy Day, with a goal of $50,000 in 2026. Contributions directly support educational initiatives for nonprofit professionals throughout the region. Donations are accepted year-round.
AFP San Diego’s National Philanthropy Day is made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, Empower Sponsor U.S. Bank, Focus Sponsor Sanford Institute of Philanthropy at NU and dozens of partners. View the full list of 2026 sponsors.
Event Details
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101
Tickets and partnership opportunities are available at AFPSD.org – NPD 2026! For more information, contact Fiona King at 619-538-6605 or [email protected].
About AFP San Diego
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter has supported fundraising professionals and nonprofit leaders throughout San Diego County since 1974. Through professional education, mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, AFP San Diego connects people at every stage of their careers while advancing ethical and effective fundraising practices. With more than 350 local members and connections to a global network of fundraising professionals, AFP San Diego invests in the people behind philanthropy to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Learn more at AFPSD.org & follow AFPSD on LinkedIn
In the last several years, there’s been a surge in FDA approvals for what’s known as oral oncolytics. Oral oncolytics are targeted cancer therapies that come in tablet, capsule or liquid form that patients can take at home, rather than in an infusion clinic. Scripps physicians have seen exponential growth using this approach, with patients citing convenience as a major quality-of-life enhancement in their cancer treatment. This approach also allows treatments to be customized based on specific genetic mutations and a patient’s unique disease biology. Find out more about oral oncolytics here.
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