Emerging Trends: Pay Forward

Good deeds begets good deeds

By Ethan Lyon, Senior Writer

Definition
When John F. Kennedy famously said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country,” he understood the inherent goodwill of Americans. We have to rely on that goodwill in the face of difficult challenges. Our compassion for one another is a common thread that unites us. It was with this idea of compassion that JFK inspired thousands of Americans to serve selflessly for the good of our fellow man. JFK’s message was strongly echoed after 9/11 and stronger yet after the near collapse of our financial systems.

Spin
Goodwill—Doing good deeds for others is fulfilling. Have you ever seen a person mad after they walk the little old lady across the street? No, their good will engenders a feeling of purpose and meaning that is tremendously rewarding. As we face difficult times, we are humbled and unified through our collective experience. As a result, the good within us will shine through.
Karma—Stemming from the Hindu religion, the concept of Karma comes from the idea that your actions in the here and now will effect the future you. Those that committed wrongdoing before will now face the consequences of their actions. Those that acted in good faith will be rewarded with a better future.

Examples
Peace Corps—John F. Kennedy created the Peace Corps with the idea that Americans are genuinely charitable. That idea has carried through the decades. Over 170,000 Americans have served their country and their fellow man through the Peace Corps since its conception in 1961.
Secret Millionaire—Nothing says reality check like working for minimum wage, living in an impoverished community and lending a helping hand—particularly for a millionaire. Fox’s new show Secret Millionaire does just that. After the undercover millionaires have had a chance to see how “the other half lives,” they decide who receives a gift of $100,000. It’s a lesson in humility that breaks lifestyle barriers to enlighten the more fortunate with the realities of the less fortunate.
Link Lessons—No longer does it take hundreds, if not thousands of dollars to perfect your swing. Link Lessons is an online video site where amateur and professional golfers meet to side step the expensive lessons… at least in the beginning. Amateurs film their swing, post it to Link Lessons, and professionals give them pointers based on their uploaded video. For the professionals, it’s a great way to meet prospective clients and for amateur golfers, it’s an inexpensive alternative to on-course lessons.
Northland Professional—Donating a portion of your company profits is a noble gesture. However, it doesn’t resonate like it should with the everyday consumer. It’s difficult to see bank-to-bank transfers, and more often than not, most people do not benefit from your companies charity. That’s why last November, Northland Professional launched a charitable project that had impact for all… at least for those who walked by their billboard. Austrian outdoor fitters, Northland Professional tacked winter apparel to their billboards for passerbys’ to just… take. Northland Professional’s project is a lesson in charity with impact that meets everyday reality.

Key Words
Charitable, Goodwill, Fulfillment, Giving

Download the Emerging Trend Report in PDF format

Related posts:

1. Charitable Giving Stats (2008 – 2011) In 2009, we saw charitable donations fall by 6 percent...