Inspiration: Pure, But Not Simple
In the last 24 hours, participants at the Family Philanthropy Conference were treated to a trifecta of inspiration. Last night, a flamenco dancer romanced us, young classical musicians made our spirit soar, and an artist schooled in the traditions of Theater of the Oppressed moved some us to tears.
This morning, Ron Clark electrified a full house, sharing his strategies for educators on how to reach students. Joined by some of his students from the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Mr. Clark’s message was clear: life is short. Live your passion. Some of his strategies are seemingly simple, easily achievable and require no additional financial resources. Adults look young people in the eye and really see them when you are talking to them. Stay with the student who doesn’t know the answer when asked, and encourage fellow classmates to support that student, as they endeavor to find the answer.
However, Mr. Clark’s call to action was not simple in nature. He was calling for a revolution in education.
Building on this theme, this afternoon we heard from Jonathan Greenblatt, Director of the White House Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation. He stressed the critical nature of cross-sector partnerships in order to address the pressing issues of our time: job creation, education, poverty alleviation. He was frank in stating, “The solutions are not easy,” but he offered a vision for moving forward, a two-pronged strategy for engaging human capital and optimizing financial capital. Together, these strategies help create an “enabling environment” necessary to make the changes needed in our communities and our country.
At the core of both speakers’ messages was a call-to-action for philanthropy. Jeff Clarke, the Council on Foundation’s Interim CEO and President, reminded us today that the origins of this word translate as “lovers of humanity.” On this Valentine’s Day, the Council has created a space for all of us to be inspired and remember the love. Tomorrow we will go home. Take the inspiration with you. Feel reinvigorated. Get busy!
Susan Beaudry is a consultant to Family Philanthropy Services at the Council on Foundations.
