Change Notes
There’s often a fine line between individual acts of caring and systemic change – a line we cross often in a world that needs both compassion and justice. That line took center stage last week at the International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE) conference in London, where I worked with 400 attendees from 70 countries -- all of whom engage volunteers to help meet critical needs, all of whom end up developing solutions to larger issues in the process.
Friends,
As millions of people along the east coast begin to mourn those who died and assess the damage wrought by Hurricane Sandy, I find comfort and reassurance in one thing: Americans have always pulled together after disasters to lend a hand, help our neighbors and rebuild our communities. As Sandy recedes, we will unite in volunteer service once again.
Just a few days ago, three million people gathered across the country on the nation's largest day of service, Make a Difference Day. They donated food for military families. They cleaned up neighborhoods, parks and schools.
Friends,
It's not often you see famed international musician YOSHIKI, in the dark glasses, mingling with NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo. Or see former Vice President Dan Quayle and former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn sharing a smile. It's probably not a surprise to know that the Today Show's Al Roker, along with wife Deborah Roberts of 20/20, can work a room.
Friends,
One of the things I sometimes read about is the homogenization of our nation's communities. After travelling across the country for five weeks, I am happy to report that we continue to live in a land of great regional character. Even volunteer experiences vary across the country.
A perfect example for me was participating in my first-ever Human Cattle Drive in Sheridan, Wyo., (also known as the Trail Tromp) to break in a gorgeous new 12-mile trail. The pathway was created through voluntary conservation easements and orchestrated by a team of volunteers with the Sheridan Nature Conservancy. The community volunteers literally stomped the trail down and simultaneously raised awareness and enthusiasm for this amazing new community asset.