If you could imagine a better world, what would it look like?
We’re sharing the stories of innovators, who are using technology to build community, invite action and bring people together around solutions for a better world. These optimists and their stories of good will and common purpose remind us that great things happen when people connect for good.
Every day, Andrew Siegel and Dan Treglia walked past homeless folks on the streets of Philadelphia. They were hungry to do as much as possible to help those in need, so they created StreetChange.
Through a clever combination of beacons, a mobile app and real-life counseling, StreetChange provides homeless people with the everyday items they need, it also help them get on a path to housing. By downloading the application, users can contribute necessities like socks, shoes, and rain coats requested by StreetChange clients. Through Bluetooth beacons given to StreetChange clients, users can even see if there’s anyone who needs something nearby.
Get involved with StreetChange
Imagine a world without stigma around mental health issues.
When Army Veteran Seth Castle came home from 16 years overseas, he didn’t even know what PTSD was. But after struggling for years with anxiety and anger, he channeled his feelings into creating a book to explain PTSD to his 6-year-old daughter, and to help break the stigma and shame surrounding mental health issues.
“There’s a stigma associated with PTSD, and a lot of it is the warrior culture and masculinity that you need to be able to handle this,” he says. “And if you can’t, it’s because you’re weak.” — Seth Kastle
Imagine a world where everyone feels comfortable in their own skin.
When designer Rebecca Moses noticed that every mannequin looked exactly the same, she created an art exhibit to showcase how they could better reflect the diversity of real people, and draw attention to the beautiful uniqueness of each individual.
“I believe that we have to embrace what we have — our imperfections are really what define us.” — Rebecca Moses
Technology and the connections enabled by it have profoundly affected our lives and our communities. In recognition and celebration of that, we’ll be sharing more stories about inspiring people from diverse walks of life who show us what a better world means to them, and why better matters for our future. We hope you’ll join us.
