Making a Global Impact

I was thinking today about how I can make a bigger impact on the world. How is that possible? Sure I gave to the Haiti earthquake relief, but didn't really feel I made a difference. Today I gave my college some money because they say they need it, but am I really making a difference? Giving money is one way, volunteering is another of course, and I do my share of volunteering and pro- bono work to non profits, but am I really making a difference?

Then I came across what Blake Mycoskie is doing with a new company called TOMS Shoes. For every pair of shoes he sells he will give one away to a child without shoes. He has done this in Africa, Asia and in New Orleans after Katrina. To date he has given away almost half a million pair of shoes, and his company is just now showing a profit after 2 years. Now that is making a difference.

I am intrigued with this idea of social capitalism. Especially when the Harvard Business Review reported that only 29% people think that companies really contribute to the well being of folks. Blake's model makes sense if you want to make an impact.

I think I'll buy a pair of shoes. http://www.tomsshoes.com/