Change.org provides many pathways to change

Sphere: Related Content

I recently started doing more with Change.org. I already highlighted the fundraiser page FightAIDSTuberculosisMalaria in previous posts, in this post I want to highlight some of the other pathways one can take. I am just starting, taking small steps.

The great thing about Change.org is that you can work at a number of different levels. You can create your own profile as I did. You can also work at a global level like with the Clinton Global Initiative University. One reason behind this post is to find recruits for this cause. Let me know if you do decide to pledge. That is only the beginning though the Clinton Global Initiative University provides a number of different ways for people, especially young people in college to participate.

One of my areas of growing interests has been Social Entrepreneurship. The Change.org site socialentrepreneurship.change.org provides 10 Ways to Get Involved with Social Entrepreneurship which I am summarizing below.

1. Read
2. Reach Out
3. Fundraise
4. Volunteer or get an internship
5. Advocate: One of the things that often distinguishes social entrepreneurs is their desire not only to remedy a problem, but to change the social landscape that allowed that problem to happen in the first place. The intention of this blog is to provide support through 1,2,3 and 5. I realize that it is only a small contribution, but it sometimes seems that if we could be millions to make small contributions, to just become aware of the challenges, we could make a substantial difference.
6. Go to the source and LISTEN: The most important thing anyone who wishes to create change can do is to spend time with and learn from the communities experiencing the poverty, injustice, and inequality you wish to address.
7. Enroll: Increased interest in social entrepreneurship has prompted business schools like Haas at Berkeley and Kellogg
8. Enter a Competition: A great way to test an idea is to enter a university business plan competition such as the Global Social Benefit Incubator, or even an online competition like ideablob.com or changemakers.net. I have lent online support to these efforts in my other blog before, but should start again.
9. Always challenge yourself: For aspiring social entrepreneurs, or even just those interested the field, it’s as if not MORE important to read criticism like Michael Edwards “Just Another Emperor” and constantly reflect upon your own ambitions. This is one I need to take a look at. I came into this with a particular perspective on business practices and social activism.
10. Start your own organization:
    

Change.org has a whole host of ideas of how to create positive change.

We've tapped into this energy with our Ideas for Change in America, and today we held a press event at the National Press Club in Washington DC to announce the winners of the competition. The 10 winning ideas reflect the diverse interests of the millions of people calling for change across the country, and include ideas for securing universal heath care, LGBT rights, and sustainable green energy. All winning ideas can be viewed at www.change.org/ideas .

- So as the Change.org Team always signs off,

Have a great weekend!