STEM is the next phase for supporting girls who want to embrace those qualities about themselves
Hats off to these girls –I’m so proud of them! I truly love finding such people who have welcomed parts of themselves that society typically says is “not for you (because you’re a girl).” Of course, I don’t buy that one iota, and am so pleased these young ladies don’t either! I’m proud to say I’ve always been a supporter of women re-claiming their role as equals –right next to men. Not behind, not beneath, but side by side equal partners … in careers, salary, advancement in the workforce, etc.
Unfortunately, numerous studies highlight that this is a cultural issue, where many girls lose confidence in math and technical skills in middle school and high school. Unfortunately, women make 92 cents to a man’s dollar currently in STEM occupations (not quite yet equal pay), but the good news is that there are programs scattered around North America that are more and more recognizing the importance of encouraging girls into fields of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).
Dr. Linda Kekelis, Techbridge’s CEO and executive director, has collaborated with Chevron and the Fab Foundation (CSU in Bakersfield) and launched a program to get more girls involved in STEM by appealing to their specific interests and imaginations. “A kid shouldn’t be limited by where they are born or what gender they are. Every girl should be able to dream about what she wants to be and have the resources available to make her way toward fulfilling those dreams,” states Kekelis.
Hands-On Learning and Mentorship Are Encouraging More Women in the STEM Pipeline. The Atlantic.
Donate money, and the Law of Attraction re-lines your pockets
If you haven’t been able to tell (wink wink), I see the glass as half full –shocker, I know! I’ve found a wonderful article elaborating on the many benefits of financially giving to charity. My wife, who’s an entrepreneur, has learned that when income is getting thin, it’s time again to donate to others. While this seems counter-intuitive, we’ve come to understand the Law of Attraction from this energetic basis: Give, and the Universe replenishes.
It was extremely hard to wrap our heads around actually giving away our money when bills continued to land in our mailbox. But once we took that leap of faith, the Universe recognized that money flows out and to regain balance… money must flow back in (to our pockets). Get in a habit of doing this monthly or quarterly, so the Universe can meet you by regularly sending money your way. “It’s magically delicious,” I exclaim imitating that cereal leprechaun.
Here are 4 solid reasons why giving to charity as a business practice is good business. “1. It Boosts Employee Morale and Can Attract Top Talent; 2. Sponsorship Doubles as Marketing; 3. Increased Network Opportunities; and 4. Generate Positivity Around Your Brand. Consumers appreciate and support socially conscious businesses, because it causes them to become emotionally invested. In fact, customers are 85% more likely to buy a product that is associated with a charity.”
Granted these tips are specifically for business owners; however, I am certain the Law of Attraction works for individuals too. Try it, and see how the Universe can creatively bring more financial flow to line your pockets! I’d love to hear such stories …you can email them to me at “Contact Us.”
Why Giving to Charity Is Good for Business by Molly Reynolds. Inc.
Support mission-driven social enterprises this holiday season
I, like most average citizens, am more than ready for our world to change in positive ways that support the little guy like you and me, whether in politics, finance, big corporations, government laws, etc. With that in mind, I am grateful to have discovered this article showing ways to extend the benefits of our dollar, which do support those who could use an extra helping hand.
“Social enterprises are mission-driven businesses focused on hiring and assisting people who are willing and able to work, but have the hardest time getting a job. People employed by social enterprises throughout the country produce beautiful and high quality items.” Find a place in your ever-expanding heart to purchase your holiday gifts from such enterprises “that gives a second chance to people who have been homeless or in prison, or have disabilities.”
Here are some quality organizations to end your search for these most practical items on your holiday list…. Homeboy Industries offers yummy baked goods, home goods, and trendy fashion bags. Boston Handyworks creates genuine handmade and long-lasting cutting boards. Women’s Bean Project sells gourmet foods and handmade jewelry. If you cannot find these specific companies in your town, then contact your local social enterprise alliance for suggestions.
Your Guide to Holiday Shopping With a Social Mission by Carla Javits. Huffington Post.
As always… if your current life situation is heavy, please remember this too shall pass!
We Are All One
Gavin