Quick note before the review: I've started doing the 50/50 challenge. It's a challenge to read 50 books and watch 50 movies (that you haven't read/seen before) during the year. So far, I'm at 2/1....I just decided to go make a page to keep track of these, so go check that out up top! Anyways, on to the review!
Start Something That Matters by Blake Mycoskie
So I loved this book! It reads as part biography, part business how-to, and part inspiration. It chronicles the history of TOMS, a for-profit company that gives a pair of shoes to a child in need for each pair it sells. From it's start as a sketch in Blake's journal, to a full-fledged business selling millions of items, follow along as one man dreams of giving children a better future. TOMS blazed a trail for people to help others, yet still pay their own bills. Blake also shares the tips and insights he's gained on this journey to greatness.
I'm not an entrepreneur, but I love that many of the tips he shares can be translated to ministry, or to a non-profit, if and when I start one. This book was easy to read, with tons of stories from Blake and others he's come in contact with. Its a great combination of stories and practicality that will inspire just about anyone. I absolutely recommend this book!
And thanks to TOMS, I get to give away a brand new copy of Start Something That Matters!! My first ever blog giveaway :] hooray! So here's how we're gonna do this. Leave a comment telling me about an organization or person making a difference that inspires you. I'll keep this contest open for one week (It will close on Wednesday, January 25th at 6pm EST). The winner will be chosen at random with one of those number generating thingys. Make sure your email is linked so I can contact you if you win!
Good luck and happy reading!
*I received this book for free as part of TOMS Books for Bloggers Program in exchange for a review. I was under no obligation to give a good review. (Actually, their words were: "If you love the book, say so. If you used the book as kindling in your fireplace, that's OK too :)")
**UPDATE!** Whoops! Forgot to close the contest! Well, it was a 50/50 chance shot for the two of you who entered, and thanks to random.org's integer generator, the winner is......Kerri! Congratulations on your new free book :)
Hi, Emilie Sullivan is making a difference! For years she worked tirelessly to visit those in prison. Bringing her piano each week, telling them that they were not forgotten, that God had a plan for them. She still, in her 70s runs a bible study for women. She visits the sick, prays for those in need, is generous with her time and resources. She's a respected member of her housing complex and her church. She's worked on an international ministry level and has always been concerned and involved with those in need. So yes, she's the reason her children and now her grandchildren are serving God and the world in various ways. I vote for Nanny! Emilie Sullivan! -Cindi Webster
ReplyDeleteI would have to say an organization that inspires me is ZOE International Ministries. Their headquarters is in San Diego but they are serving in Thailand. Pastors Carol and Mike Hart started the organization after being prompted by God. They both had very successful careers in Hollywood and were assistant Pastors at the time God called them. Listening to testimony after testimony from Pastor Carol about how God opened doors for them to start is amazing. Sometime it seems like God has done so much can He really do more and then He does! I love hearing about people telling them it's not going to work and yet it does. Pastors Mike and Carol are the most 'real deal' people I have ever met. Their love for God and the children of Zoe is evident in everything they do. I feel so blessed that I was able to go and see what they are doing out there for these children who have been sold into Human Trafficking or orphaned. I cannot wait to go back and help more. It has also helped me remember that just one person can make a difference as long as they are wiling to go where God says to go and to go when He says to go.
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