If you can’t be the donor, be the voice

I had an interesting Skype call with a colleague from Sri Lanka. I gave him some advice that I’d like to share with you.

He has a vision of donating financially to a global problem, he cares deeply about. But he doesn’t yet have the wealth to make the degree of impact he’d like.

I cited examples such as the late Princess Diana. She made use of the dozens of Paparazzi that followed her everywhere, to increase awareness about the undetonated land mines that are still buried in countries like Vietnam and Angola. These land mines were crippling children as well as adults who stepped on them.

She knew, that individually she couldn’t solve the problem. But if the global community became aware and began to care about this issue. Their collective pressure upon government could lead to action.

Of course, Diana had an uncommon charisma and the ability to draw attention to herself and the things she cared about. Also keep in mind, that Diana lived and died before the social media explosion we now experience.

Social media allows for the building of community around a specific issue. This community can ultimately become a powerful voice that organizes to educate and collaborate for change.

To accomplish this, you need a smart phone, a tablet or a computer with internet access. Combine that with your vision, your passion, your patience and your people skills to build the community and help it find its voice.

You don’t need money or to be royalty to make a difference. If you can’t give them money, give them a voice.

Thanks for being you.

Brian R. King