Mobilize

I never thought I would find myself endorsing something driven by the Clinton Global Initiative, but here goes....   

 

Procter & Gamble: PURifying the World’s Water and Opening Doors

 

It's yet another example of how thoughtful businesses and people can simultaneously meet an immediate need (in this case for clean water) and change the social structures to make sure the need is met permanently.  How is this possible?  Those involved make a profit too, selling water filters ("sachets").  It's not a greedy profit, but the profit "machine" is what drives the charitable solution.

 

"Dr. Allgood said keeping a price on the product has actually been good for the endeavor in some markets. With a price associated with the sachets, there is motivation among local distributors and suppliers to create effective supply chains, promote the products, and have them available where needed, aiding the social marketing efforts. It’s even created opportunities for some of those being served by selling the product to others in their area, particularly women trying to support their families."

 

As someone who works for a company that sells supply chain consulting solutions, I can tell you it's complex, difficult business.  So hats off to these folks for envisioning a creative way to get clean water to those who need it.

The loan to a group of entepreneurs in Ghana appears to be working.  I got my first repayment, just over $4 out of a total $25 I added to the loan.  So far so good.  I hope it makes a difference for their business and their families.

This year I became a charitable venture capitalist.  

 

 

 

Like so many people, I'm not putting feet to my faith nearly as much as I'd like.  This blog is my record of exploring opportunities to demonstrate true compassion -- the kind that makes a difference by offering human dignity as well as help.