Together We CAN pt.1

Together We CAN...

It amazes me the power of people working together, especially when it's towards a positive goal.  We can achieve so much more together than working individually, yet so often we limit ourselves because we want to "figure it out," "be independent," or sometimes, just not be bothered with the hassle.  I'll be the first one to raise my hand to have been guilty of this, but also the first to say that I'm reminded often of how much more we advance and develop personally when we work collectively.  Does that make any sense?

I'm excited about the concept of working together. From the Civil Rights movement, to Volunteer Match, to Kickstarter, we've seen the power of focused collective action.  One of the most amazing observations of this phenomenon was captured by the quote from Margaret Mead. She definitively noted,

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. " Margaret Mead

Let's make it happen,

--Greg McCoy

 

Thankful for Sunflower and Freedom

I'm thankful for the Sunflower County Freedom Project. If you haven't had the chance, check out the new website for the SCFP.  It's a truly amazing organization and around this time I often think about the opportunities many of the students have through the program. Right now, Kenyon King is in college on a Gates scholarship at American University and Luke Washington is in law school.  Those are just some of the amazing stories from small, humble, and dedicated beginnings. The staff at the SCFP is an outstanding group and are adding so much to the organization. I'm thankful to be able to support such a great organization.

If you haven't seen the trailer for the new documentary, by SCFP staff alum Carmen Scott, definitely do so:The Sunflower County Freedom Project

Thankful.

David Banner on Wealth Building

Seeing this type of an article truly makes me feel good about the place, power, and opportunity hip hop has to positively influence so much.

David Banner’s 4 Money Management Lessons for Black America - Black Enterprise

Freedom Project Video Shoot

We shot a bunch of scenes for the the SCFP video shoot for B.o.B's "Don't Let Me Fall." Local news station, WXVT and the Enterprise-Toscin covered the event. These are some photos from the shoot!

An Opportunity for More Opportunity

I came across this impressive microfinance and business support organization, Good Work Network. I'm always intrigued when I successful and sustainable models in non-profits.

"An opportunity is not an opportunity, if you do not have the resources to succeed." - Julius Walls Jr.

Here is a brief description from there website below

Good Work Network educates, coaches and supports these smaller businesses to help them improve their skills, realize their full potential and become active participants in the local economy. Through its programs and services, Good Work Network works to expand the local economy by building minority and women owned businesses. It envisions a community where the economy is diverse and inclusive and where all dedicated and competent entrepreneurs have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Check it out: http://www.goodworknetwork.org/

--Greg McCoy

Call Me MISTER

Interesting article.

Young black males have a better chance of being taught by someone who looks like them now that the first two graduates of the College of Charleston's Call Me MISTER program are teaching in area schools.

http://www.postandcourier.com/news/2011/sep/29/black-male-teachers-on-rise/

Keep More of What You Earn

Only one month left!

Knowledge about the EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) for the Mid South.

http://www.fndmidsouth.org/news/view.php?entryID=30