If we believe in a cause, we invest our resources in its work. A banking institution might be credible due to the federal and state regulations it adheres to, the accreditation it receives from banking regulators, and the FDIC insurance that protects our deposited funds. A social sector enterprise might obtain credibility for the standards and practices it follows, the integrity of the board and staff members, and its history of service.

What attributes must be embedded in a cause before you feel motivated to make an investment of time, talent, treasure, or touch? What is the tipping point for you to risk your social capital on behalf of a cause? Would credibility be one of the factors?

What makes us willing to