20 years of impact
Since its founding in 2005, the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals (ACCP) has served as the leading membership association for companies committed to corporate citizenship—and a career-long resource for purpose-driven professionals.
But ACCP’s story begins even earlier. In 1999, a small group of companies came together for what would become the first Forum, laying the foundation for a more strategic, connected, and professionalized field.
From the start, ACCP has been guided by a simple but powerful goal: to advance the field of corporate social impact and equip practitioners to drive meaningful change within their companies and communities.
Building the Foundation (1999–2007)
ACCP’s origins trace back to the Corporate Contributions Academy (now the ACCP Forum), launched in 1999 to bring structure and strategy to a rapidly evolving field. Over the next several years, participation grew steadily, signaling a clear need for shared learning and professional standards. In 2005, that momentum led to the formal creation of the Association for Corporate Contributions Professionals. Founded by 10 companies and CEO Curt Weeden, the organization focused on professional education, management resources, and advocacy. Those founding member companies were AMEX, BD, ESPN, ExxonMobil, Hasbro, Horizon Blue Cross/Blue Shield Johnson & Johnson, Nordson, Northwestern Mutual, Sanofi, Sony, Starbucks, Target, Visteon, and Wells Fargo.
Growth was immediate. Membership surpassed 100 within the first year and continued to expand, prompting the addition of dedicated staff and leadership, including ACCP’s first President and CEO in 2007.Expanding the Field (2012–2018)
As the field matured, so did ACCP. In 2012, the organization launched its first online community, creating a space for practitioners to connect, share knowledge, and learn from one another in real time. By 2015, ACCP introduced its first benchmarking survey, providing critical data to help companies understand how their programs compared to peers. In 2017, the organization evolved its name to the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, reflecting a broader, more integrated view of the field. This period also marked significant growth in membership, programming, and thought leadership, including the publication of The Corporate Citizenship Guide: Defining the Profession.
Scaling Community and Influence (2019–2023)
By 2019, ACCP reached record levels of membership and conference attendance, alongside a refreshed brand and website that reflected the energy of a growing field.
In 2020, amid a global pandemic, economic disruption, and a racial justice reckoning, ACCP rapidly adapted, led by then-CEO Carolyn Berkowitz. The organization transitioned programs to virtual formats, launching new resource centers, and expanding opportunities for connection through regional and industry groups.
In the years that followed, ACCP continued to grow – reaching more than 250 member companies by 2023 – and expanded its influence through thought leadership featured in major outlets such as Bloomberg, Forbes, and Nasdaq.
Strengthening Strategy and Impact (2022–2024)
To guide its next phase, ACCP introduced a multi-year strategic plan in 2022, shaped by extensive input from its member community. The plan reaffirmed ACCP’s commitment to advancing the field through knowledge sharing, peer connection, and advocacy.
In 2024, ACCP reached a significant milestone by reclassifying as a 501(c)(3) public charity—expanding opportunities to support its mission and deepen its impact.
A New Chapter (2025 and Beyond)
In 2025, with more than 270 member companies, ACCP celebrated its 20th anniversary - a milestone that reflects two decades of growth, innovation, and community. That same year, Andrea Wood was appointed President and CEO, bringing a strong track record in advancing corporate social responsibility and positioning ACCP for its next chapter.
Looking Ahead
From a small gathering of practitioners to a global network of companies and leaders, ACCP has evolved alongside the field it serves.
And while the landscape continues to change, one thing remains constant:
ACCP’s commitment to helping its members lead with purpose and drive impact where it matters most.
At the center of that work is our membership. ACCP connects companies to the insights, tools, and peer community they need to navigate complexity, strengthen their strategies, and accelerate impact. From benchmarking data and practical resources to real-time peer exchange, membership ensures leaders don’t have to navigate this work alone.