Learn how I can make an impact through socially responsible investing

We vote at the ballot box, but we can also vote with our dollars. Most of us try to make smart choices at checkout counter, but have you ever thought about where your money winds up once it's in the bank or invested in a retirement fund?

Socially responsible investing (SRI) is the practice of knowing where your savings go and making sure your money is used ways that match your personal values. There are three main components to socially responsible investing:

• Screening your current and potential investments to remove companies you don't want to support (e.g. weapons or tobacco funding) and adding in companies that perform well in areas that you do support (e.g. clean energy or product safety).

• Community investing as a way "to create jobs, housing, and social services here and abroad while earning returns on [your] investments."

• Shareholder action by using your ownership in a company (however small your share of stock) to encourage positive change within the organization.
  

This can seem like a daunting project, but a little help can go a long way. If you have a financial advisor, ask whether she or he offers a free SRI screen of your current investments. Your employer may also offer resources for reviewing your company-sponsored retirement investments. Browse the Social Investment Forum's guide to selecting a financial professional, and let us know if you take the first step towards making an impact with your money!