Babson Case Number: 015-C95 | Length: x Pages

Abstract

This case deals with the creation of a food cooperative, Food From the 'Hood, by two social entrepreneurs and a group of inner-city high school students in Los Angeles shortly after the "LA Riots" in 1992. The riots occurred when white police officers were acquitted of beating black motorist Rodney King, in spite of a video tape recording of the beating.

This case follows the group as they attempt to launch a non-profit organization at Crenshaw High School. One of the social entrepreneurs is a Crenshaw High School science teacher, the other is a very successful PR executive, Melinda McMullen. The case highlights the dilemmas faced by Melinda, which culminate when her boss says that she must leave her job, or stop her work with Food From the 'Hood.

This case deals with opportunity recognition, career-building, and the place of non-profit activities in a successful career, cause-related marketing, and how public relations can build something against long odds. In addition it deals with differences between non-profit and for-profit perspectives, issues surrounding the decision to become an entrepreneur, and gender and race issues. It is best used in courses that focus on non-profits and social entrepreurship.