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Case
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Reference no. 802-056-1
Subject category: Entrepreneurship
Published by: Babson College
Originally published in: 2002
Version: 10.16.02
Length: 14 pages
Data source: Field research

Abstract

This case deals with the creation of a non-profit food co-operative, Food From the 'Hood', by two social entrepreneurs and a group of Los Angeles inner-city high school students, shortly after the LA riots which occurred in 1992. The riots occurred when white police officers were acquitted of beating black motorist Rodney King - this in spite of a video recording of the event. In light of this, case principals Melinda McMullen and Tammy Bird decide to organise a non-profit organisation whose goal is to provide a positive influence on their disrupted community. Melinda McMullen is a highly successful public relations executive, employed in a full-time position at a respected firm, and Tammy Bird is a science teacher at Los Angeles' Crenshaw High School. This case follows Melinda, Tammy, and Crenshaw High School students as they attempt to launch their non-profit organisation: a garden whose produce is sold at a local farmer's market. The case addresses gender and race issues and highlights dilemmas faced by Melinda, which culminate when her boss gives her the ultimatum to either discontinue her work with Food From the 'Hood' or resign from her prestigious public relations position. The teaching note includes strategies for case presentation, key concepts, and suggestions for the most effective ways to work this case into a course.
Industry:
Size:
Start-up
Other setting(s):
1992-1993

About

Abstract

This case deals with the creation of a non-profit food co-operative, Food From the 'Hood', by two social entrepreneurs and a group of Los Angeles inner-city high school students, shortly after the LA riots which occurred in 1992. The riots occurred when white police officers were acquitted of beating black motorist Rodney King - this in spite of a video recording of the event. In light of this, case principals Melinda McMullen and Tammy Bird decide to organise a non-profit organisation whose goal is to provide a positive influence on their disrupted community. Melinda McMullen is a highly successful public relations executive, employed in a full-time position at a respected firm, and Tammy Bird is a science teacher at Los Angeles' Crenshaw High School. This case follows Melinda, Tammy, and Crenshaw High School students as they attempt to launch their non-profit organisation: a garden whose produce is sold at a local farmer's market. The case addresses gender and race issues and highlights dilemmas faced by Melinda, which culminate when her boss gives her the ultimatum to either discontinue her work with Food From the 'Hood' or resign from her prestigious public relations position. The teaching note includes strategies for case presentation, key concepts, and suggestions for the most effective ways to work this case into a course.

Settings

Industry:
Size:
Start-up
Other setting(s):
1992-1993

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