Make a Difference
We are honored this month to feature Dr. Mohammad Yunus, the 2006 recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and founder of the Grameen Bank. Recently, a member of the Noble committee stated that "a prerequisite for winning the Nobel Peace Prize is making a difference," and Yunus has indeed made a great difference globally. Creating opportunity for others, even at your local level, can make a huge impact on your community.
We all should consider volunteering our time and efforts to make someone else's life a little easier. Offer your talents to the elderly, a hospital, a child care center or an animal shelter. Offer to help your neighbor should they become ill or are called away for an emergency. It's not a difficult thing to do, but trying to get through our demanding schedules every day can push what's really important to the background. Make a conscious decision to get more involved in philanthropic endeavors this year. Write down your areas of interest and see how your hobbies, your profession, or your passions can help facilitate change in your world.
It doesn't necessarily cost any money to get involved; it just takes your effort and your time. Your generosity can really make things happen. There are so many organizations that can use your help. Check out local military bases, the Big Brother - Big Sister programs, Red Cross, your local school system, the Humane Society -- the list is almost endless. Find the group that best fits your interests and talents and then jump right in and get involved - even just a few hours a week.
Many of us in the United States live pretty well, and for me it's always an honor to give back to society. I have my favorite charities and organizations that I like to support. If you can only send your money, it's never been easier now that we have the Internet. If you want to give things, pick up the phone and call veterans groups, the Salvation Army or other charitable organizations in your area. If you can give your time, contact someone today and sign up. Remember, one person can make a difference. Yunus has proven that to be true.
We congratulate Yunus for being awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize, and we honor him and his organization, the Grameen Bank, for helping the world's poor with Micro Loans. Micro credit is now at work in 43 countries around the world. A version has even reached thousands of Americans in inner cities like Chicago and Washington. Borrowers there can start with a $500 or $1,000 loan, enough for gardening or hair-styling tools, enough to begin a new life by starting a business and becoming an entrepreneur. There's something about being self-sufficient that helps generate pride and self-confidence.
Those who have an excess of money, time or talents are obligated to help those who need it most. Believe me, the feeling you get by giving is well worth the experience. During the holidays, we always hear about how great it would be to generate that special feeling all year long. Here's your chance to keep it going. Get out there and take the first step - make a difference. Start today.
Originally published in James Dicks: Buy*Sell*Hold magazine.