By Aaron Hurst on
January 16, 2008 5:40 PM
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I just read the Deloitte Community Involvement annual report that included a description of their amazing work for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2004 in the wake of the tsunami. The UNDP was apparently overwhelmed in its efforts to disburse aid and ensure assistance reached those in need after the tsunami in Indonesia. Their systems simply couldn't handle the outpouring of support from around the globe. Deloitte provided 60 consultants across six member firms to work for over seven months and provide over 14,000 hours of consulting help for the UNDP ($5 million in pro bono services). The consultants made recommendations on business and operations processes, as well as financial controls to strengthen the capacity and accountability of the UNDP.
In a word--wow. That is the kind of compassion, smarts and commitment that all companies should use to set the bar. It also illustrates that while financial contributions are critical, without the systems to leverage the funds, the value is diminished. In this case, these pro bono services were likely much more valuable than Deloitte just writing a check for $5 million. Right cause. Right time. Right investment.
By Aaron Hurst on
January 8, 2008 8:52 AM
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Last year I gave up on the lose weight resolution and decided instead to make it a resolution to simply wear more black--it is slimming. It has enabled me to do more shopping, work out less and eat anything I want. It has really worked out well for me (at least until I die of a heart attack at 49 like my mother did).
The other common resolution is to start getting involved in the community--to be a better person. For those who are making this a priority for 2008, you can use my strategy and not change any behavior, but simply visit the Gap and buy some of the "red" product line and show the world you care. While, luckily, this move is unlikely to lead to your early death, it is also unlikely to make you reflect positively on your impact on this planet.
Another way to get involved in the community is for you to do it pro bono this year and put your skills to work making a real impact in the community. Not only does it lead to happy death bed reflection, but most people actually report that it is fun. It could also enable you to achieve your goals of making new friends and advancing your career this year--who knows.
do it pro bono.
