Empowering Philanthropy: Unveiling the Lever for Change Bold Solutions Network for Impactful Giving

In pursuit of philanthropy, donors are often faced with the Herculean task of identifying organizations that are not only in dire need of support but also capable of delivering tangible, long-lasting impacts. This year is no exception, with a plethora of causes vying for attention and support. This is where the Bold Solutions Network [by leverforchange.org] steps in, shining as a beacon of hope and clarity in the often murky waters of grant making.

What sets the Lever for Change Network apart is its commitment to meticulous vetting. In a world brimming with causes and initiatives, the network provides a much-needed filter, ensuring that every organization featured is thoroughly evaluated for effectiveness, sustainability, and the potential for real-world impact. This rigorous vetting process means that donors can rest easy, knowing that their contributions are not just appreciated, but also wisely invested.

The network's user-friendly interface is another feather in its cap. The ability for donors to filter organizations by specific topics, geographic areas, or even Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is more than a convenience—it's a revolution in donor engagement. This feature empowers donors to align their philanthropic efforts with their passions, ensuring a deeply personal and satisfying giving experience.

Moreover, the Bold Solutions Network understands that the impact of a donation isn't just felt by the recipient organization. Donors themselves embark on a fulfilling journey, one where they witness the direct consequences of their generosity. This connection fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges faced by various communities, thereby enriching the donor's own perspective on global issues.

The network also plays a pivotal role in fostering a more efficient and effective philanthropic ecosystem. By matching donors with pre-vetted organizations, the network cuts down on the time and resources typically spent in the due diligence process. This efficiency not only benefits donors but also ensures that more resources are directed towards actual problem-solving, rather than administrative or evaluative tasks.

As we look towards the new year, the Bold Solutions Network stands ready to guide donors through a landscape brimming with potential. It's more than a tool; it's a partner in the journey of impactful giving. For those poised to make a difference with grantmaking, the Bold Solutions Network awaits at https://www.leverforchange.org/solutions/explore-solutions/. This link isn’t just a URL; it’s a portal to a world where generosity ignites change, where every dollar donated is a step towards a better, more equitable world. Join this journey and be part of a global movement where your impact can be seen, felt, and celebrated.

Top 12 Philanthropy Pioneers and Their Teachable Moments

Today, I wanted to dive into the world of philanthropy, where money meets generosity, and the rich sometimes remember to share their toys. We're looking at the top 12 philanthropy pioneers – because who doesn't need a little inspiration with their morning coffee?

1. Andrew Carnegie - The Library Lord

Claim to Fame: This man loved books more than some people love pizza. A total of 2,509 Carnegie libraries were built between 1883 and 1929, including some belonging to public and university library systems.He built libraries because apparently, he thought everyone should be as well-read as him. Talk about setting the bar high!

Teachable Moment: It's not just about giving away your wealth; it's about investing in things that last longer than a trending Twitter hashtag. Libraries? They're like the Wi-Fi of the 19th century, but with more dust.

2. John D. Rockefeller - The Original Oil Baron

Claim to Fame: He had more money than you could shake a stick at, and thankfully, he decided to do more than just make money snow angels.

Teachable Moment: John taught us that you can be the villain in someone's history book and still end up being a hero in another chapter. Funding medical research and education, he proved that oil money could indeed clean up well.

3. Melinda Gates - The Empress of Empowerment

Claim to Fame: She’s not just the other half of the Gates' duo; she's a powerhouse for women's rights and social issues. Plus, she probably knows more about computer bugs than most of us know about the bugs in our kitchens.

Teachable Moment: Melinda shows us that when you're a billionaire, you don't just buy a yacht and call it a day. You tackle big issues, like global health and gender equality, one well-funded step at a time.

4. Muhammad Yunus - The Banker to the Poor

Claim to Fame: This guy looked at traditional banking, laughed, and then created microfinance. He gave loans to those who couldn't even dream of a bank account, essentially turning the financial world on its head.

Teachable Moment: Yunus is the poster child for thinking outside the box. Who knew you could fight poverty with something as simple as tiny loans? Apparently, Yunus did.

5. Oprah Winfrey - The Queen of All Media (And Kindness)

Claim to Fame: Oprah didn’t just give away cars on TV; she also gave away a staggering amount of her fortune to various charitable causes. She’s the fairy godmother we all wish we had.

Teachable Moment: Oprah teaches us that you can entertain, educate, and be empathetic – all while being fabulously wealthy. It’s not just about giving away stuff; it’s about giving a part of yourself.

6. Warren Buffett - The Sage of Savvy Giving

Claim to Fame: This man could give Scrooge McDuck a run for his money. Buffett pledged to give away 99% of his fortune. Yes, you read that right - 99%! Talk about commitment issues... with keeping money, that is. In 2006, Warren Buffett gave $30 billion to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, entrusting the Microsoft founder and his wife to give it away on his behalf in order to improve the lives of impoverished people across the globe.

Teachable Moment: Buffett shows us that you can be a financial genius and a giving genius at the same time. Outsource all the way! He proves that being rich isn't just about hoarding; it's about how many lives you can touch (other than your accountant's).

7. Azim Premji - The Indian Tech Tycoon Turned Education Crusader

Claim to Fame: This tech guru didn't just stop at creating a software empire; he decided to reform India's education system too. Because why not?

Teachable Moment: Premji's life lesson is clear: you can innovate in business and be a social revolutionary. Bridging the gap between the rich and the poor through education? That's some next-level philanthropy wizardry.

8. George Soros - The Man with a Mission

Claim to Fame: Known for his investment acumen, Soros is equally famous for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in promoting democracy and human rights. Basically, he's the guy trying to ensure the world plays fair.

Teachable Moment: Soros teaches us that money can be a powerful tool for change. It's not just about earning it; it's about using it to level the playing field, one donation at a time.

9. Carol Adyeeri Adams - The Mother Theresa of the 21st century

Claim to Fame: She helped educate thousands of orphans and other kids in need gain education and independence. Ultimately, proving that you do not have to be a billionaire to make a positive impact in the world free from society's unrealistic expectations.

10. Chuck Feeney - The Billionaire Who Wanted to Die Broke

Claim to Fame: This guy took "giving while living" to the extreme. He secretly funneled billions into education, science, healthcare, and civil rights, all while keeping a low profile. Like a philanthropic ninja!

Teachable Moment: Feeney is the embodiment of selfless giving. He shows us that true generosity doesn’t need the spotlight – it just needs to make a difference.

11. Yusaku Maezawa - The Cosmic Crusader of Compassion

Claim to Fame: This Japanese billionaire isn't just about rocketing to space; he's also known for his extraordinary public giveaways and commitment to the arts. He's the guy who literally wants to take philanthropy to new heights—outer space.

Teachable Moment: Maezawa shows us that philanthropy can be unconventional and still incredibly impactful. Whether it’s funding artistic endeavors or giving cash directly to people via Twitter, he’s redefining what it means to be a modern patron of humanity. It's not just about the amount you give, but also the creativity and passion behind your giving.

12. Mackenzie Scott - The Quiet Force of Philanthropy

Claim to Fame: Post-divorce from Jeff Bezos [the Amazon founder], Scott said, "It's raining money!" and decided to give a substantial part of her fortune to various causes without asking for buildings to be named after her. Its an ongoing effort where she hopes to give it all away.

Teachable Moment: Mackenzie teaches us that you can be relatively new to the billionaires' club and still school them in philanthropy. She’s redefining what it means to give back, with humility and urgency.

At the end of the day, these extraordinary individuals remind us that giving is not just about writing a check; it's about making an impact. Whether you're a tech mogul, an investment whiz, or just someone who believes in the power of education, there's always a way to make a difference. So, let's raise our metaphorical glasses to these champions of change, and maybe, just maybe, try to follow in their footsteps, one small act of kindness at a time – and it might just make the world a slightly better place.

Writing a Book: From Concept to Bestseller in 9 Simple Steps

Most people want to write a book but a small percent ever do. Why? Writing is hard. What’s even harder is the blackhole/opaque world of publishing. Anyone can have an idea and tell a story, but it takes real craft, dedication and knowing where to look to turn that idea into a book. Here is what I have found to be useful.

1. Finding Your Idea:

Every great book starts with a compelling idea. To find yours, look for inspiration in your own experiences, passions, and curiosities. Pay attention to what excites you, sparks your imagination, or raises questions you're eager to explore. I always say to my friends, what is that one thing you can talk about for hours without losing enthusiasm and still have more to say? Thats a great idea for a book. Also very important, make sure that many more people find you idea very interesting and are willing to listen and engage. This could be family members or friends, these are your early adopters.

2. Planning and Outlining:

Before diving into writing, plan your story or book structure. An outline serves as a roadmap, guiding you through your narrative or argument. This could be a detailed chapter-by-chapter outline or a simple bullet-point list of main ideas.

3. The Writing Process:

Writing is where ideas take shape. Set a consistent writing schedule and create a conducive environment for writing. I usually do one hour every morning; it could be 300 or 1000 words. It doesnt matter. What really matters is that you are writing. Aim for progress, not perfection, in your initial drafts. Remember, you can't edit a blank page, so focus on getting your ideas down first.

4. Overcoming Writer’s Block:

Along the journey of writing every writer encounters a time when they feel like they have run out of ideas or they simply are sick of writing. Writer's block is a common challenge. To overcome it, try changing your environment, taking a break, or switching to a different section of your work. Sometimes, engaging in a different creative activity can also help clear your mind and spark new ideas.

5. Seeking Feedback:

Once you have a draft, seek feedback from trusted peers, mentors, or writing groups. Constructive criticism can be invaluable in identifying areas for improvement and ensuring your book resonates with readers. Be prepared that not everyone is going to love your ideas, and that ok. Take their feedback but do not let it get in the way of your progress.

6. Revising and Editing:

Based on the feedback, revise your manuscript. This might require multiple rounds of editing to refine your language, clarify your ideas, and tighten your narrative. Consider hiring a professional editor for an objective and thorough review.

7. Navigating the Publishing World:

Research your publishing options: traditional publishing or self-publishing. For traditional publishing, you'll likely need a literary agent, so focus on crafting a compelling query letter and book proposal. For self-publishing, educate yourself on the various platforms and tools available.

8. Marketing Your Book:

Regardless of your publishing path, actively market your book. Build an online presence, engage with readers on social media, and consider author events, book signings, and speaking engagements. Effective marketing can significantly impact your book's success.

9. Continuous Learning and Persistence:

Finally, remember that writing and publishing a book is a learning process. Be open to continuous improvement and don't get discouraged by setbacks. Persistence and resilience are key qualities of successful authors.

By following these steps, you'll have a structured approach to turning your book idea into a reality and potentially a bestseller. Remember, every bestselling author started with a blank page and an idea – the rest is commitment and hard work.