Fundación Social operates a total of 12 companies, mainly in Colombia's financial sector, and employs its profits to support social programs addressed to removing the structural causes that generate poverty in target communities. Together, these programs directly and indirectly reach an impressive number of beneficiaries. The companies are expected to compete effectively for their respective markets and some appear to be unusually successful. Ongoing efforts are made to articulate an organizational culture that is consistent with Fundación Social's mission as well as reconcile that mission with viable strategy and day-to-day action in the complex task of managing social development in a cleavage-ridden society. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.