Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Global Goals - How Do We Start?

Global Goals, Sustainable Development Goals, World’s To Do List - celebrities and heads of state speaking out "Tell Everyone!" Tell everyone what? Tell everyone this:


WOW that seems overwhelming! So, what do you really need to know? 

These goals were created by a working group of over 100 countries that listened to consultation sessions including 8,429,844 individual voices sharing what they want in the world. Over 70,000 were from the U.S. (http://data.myworld2015.org). Because of the many stakeholders that contributed to their development, they touch everyone. These goals weren't designed to help one group of people. They were crafted and tweaked and revised and revised again. They are based on the premise that it will take partnerships between people, and governments, and companies, and philanthropy to make it work. I really love Hugh Evans’s summary: "This is a shared vision for People and the Planet for the future."

And yes, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Over that past two days I have listened to amazing speakers share heartfelt messages about vital issues like refugees, education, climate change, the dark and bright side of technology, family planning, the responsibility of advocacy, and more—here it's easy to find something more.  

There is something for everyone. What resonated with me most were those who said "I'm about Goal 4," or "Goal 16 is a foundation for Goal 5," or “Goal 13 has to happen for the rest of the goals to even exist.” Did you just peek back at the list? I hope so - I know I am. Look through the goals - what speaks to you? Over the next couple of weeks I will be sharing stories as I process the experience of the Social Good Summit. When something touches you, take time to learn more and figure out your part. 

That's how we start. Sharing the message, spreading the spark, finding likeminded friends, building new partnerships, and doing our part. TOGETHER we begin. And together we can do this.

Sunday, September 27, 2015

Where the Action Is

How can I make a difference in the world? I read, I listen, I discuss, I share, but I feel most productive when I take action in some way. I'll talk about tribe another day, but 'doing' something with others who share my passion for human rights and global understanding sparks my energy and gives me the chance to taste something more. 

That's why I'm so excited to be heading to the Social Good Summit in New York. The Summit is a forum that utilizes Social Media and technology to solve world problems. Global leaders, innovators, educators, and activists come together in person and online, sharing ideas, building partnerships, acting as a catalyst, and considering solutions made stronger through collaboration.
Moving beyond 'slacktivism' participants are encouraged to take tangible action, made possible by new connections across borders and disciplines. 

My official role will be UNA-USA blogger, blogging and tweeting up to the minute news from the summit to spread ideas to new networks and potential partners. My personal agenda is to seek inspiration, make connections with new soul mates, and find my next action item. I hope the information I share motivates you to act on the issues that you care about.