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The Blue Sweater
304 pages, 2009
For every The Blue Sweater that is purchased, Acumen Fund, a nonprofit organization founded by Paul Polak, will receive a $15 donation. The book tells the story of Erika’s quest to understand global poverty and find powerful ways to tackle it. She left a career in international banking to make this journey, which started back home in Virginia, when she found her name still on a blue sweater she had donated years earlier.
In The Blue Sweater, Jacqueline Novogratz shows us that even small actions can have a big impact. She found a sweater she donated in America being worn by a boy in Rwanda, showing how interconnected we all are. It's a reminder that our actions, no matter how small, can reach far and wide.
Novogratz emphasizes the importance of empathy in philanthropy. She believes that understanding the needs and perspectives of the people you're trying to help is crucial. So, take a moment to put yourself in their shoes before you act.
The Blue Sweater explores the concept of dignity in aid. Novogratz argues that aid should not just be about giving handouts, but about providing opportunities for people to help themselves. This approach respects their dignity and encourages self-reliance.
Novogratz's journey in the book teaches us about the importance of patience and persistence. Change doesn't happen overnight, and it often requires overcoming numerous challenges. So, don't give up when things get tough, keep pushing forward.
The Blue Sweater encourages us to look into social entrepreneurship as a way to solve global issues. Novogratz shares her experiences in setting up Acumen, a non-profit global venture fund, showing how business can be used to create social change.
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The Blue Sweater is a compelling and deeply moving narrative about persistence, connectedness, and the power of small changes.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderThe Blue Sweater is a book of hope written by a practical idealist who won't take 'no' for an answer when it comes to building a better world.
Nicholas Kristof - Journalist, AuthorThe Blue Sweater is a call to action that resonates with us all.
Anne M. Finucane - Banking ExecutiveRecommendations
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