I’ve been investigating some socially-inspired career alternatives and my friend Barbara recommended that I attend Seattle’s 2005 Fast Company Social Capitalist Awards ceremony. It was held at the University of Washington (I am always surprised by how beautiful their campus is) and awards were presented to:
– Grameen Technology Center – The Center’s director, Peter Bladin, talked about their focus — they are an initiative of Grameen Foundation USA, whose mission is to empower the world’s poorest people to lift themselves out of poverty with dignity through access to financial services and to information. Was a great reminder about the power of microfinance. Another attendee reminded me of another local microfinance organization, Unitus.
– PATH – Their President, Chris Elias, talked about their focus — PATH is an international, nonprofit organization that creates sustainable, culturally relevant solutions that enable communities worldwide to break longstanding cycles of poor health. By collaborating with diverse public- and private-sector partners, PATH helps provide appropriate health technologies and vital strategies that change the way people think and act.
– Social Venture Partners – Tom Donlea, Director, talked about their focus — SVP seeks to develop philanthropy and volunteerism to achieve positive social change in the Puget Sound region. Using the venture capital approach as a model, SVP is committed to giving time, money and expertise to create partnerships with not-for-profit organizations. SVP is a dual mission organization, seeking to be both an engaged grantmaker as well as a catalyst for smart giving.