“Charity sees the need not the cause”
German Proverb
We are not in this life alone. We are part of a community. That community takes many forms such as our family, neighborhood, church, schools, business associations, industries, profession, towns, states, nations and if you will the world community. We are products of all of the influences and benefits associated with these various communities or the society as a whole in which we are born, raised, work and live. Sure, we strive, study, educate, work hard and innovate our way to creating value and wealth but it is those communities which provide the framework, the environment and especially in the United States, the freedoms in which our lives are possible. Warren Buffet once acknowledged that society is responsible for much of his wealth “If you stick me down in the middle of Bangladesh or Peru,” he said “you’ll find out how much this talent is going to produce in the wrong soil”
“To Whom Much is Given, Much is Expected”
Luke 12:18
A famous social scientist estimated that “social capital” is responsible for at least 90% percent of what people earn. We may think selfishly that we are alone directly responsible for our personal success but without having the benefits of both the cultivation and nuturing of our local communities as well as the benefits of the larger national and world society in which to conduct our lives and business: our accomplishments and rewards would not be achievable. With that premise established, it is easy to understand (no brainer) that it is our obligation to reinforce, enhance and improve those community building blocks and factors that helped us and need to be strong for our children and future generations. We have to give back, it is the right and moral obligation as people and businesses to heal, cultivate and grow the communities or as Warren Buffet referred to as that “soil” of society that have made our success and blessed lives easier and possible. Plus it feels damn good and will bring a smile to your face.
“The life of a man consists not in seeing visions and dreaming dreams, but in active charity and willing service”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Cascade Commercial donates a portion of its revenue to several local and international charities. We also ask our clients to do the same after a successful assignment or transaction. We are still forming our philanthropic goals and commitments. We are asking the questions “Where can we make the most impact?” “What are areas that need to be addressed in our community” “What can we do to make our contribution grow or multiply or possible inspire others to give?” One thing we know is our focus will involve basic human needs. While the Opera or the Symphony are valuable community assets, it is hard to value Mozart when you cannot read, don’t have enough to eat or have a debilitating health condition. Some of the organizations we like and are contributing to are below:
Loaves and Fishes www.loavesandfishesonline.org
Portland’s branch of this worthy organization is one of the largest in the country serving thousands of nutritious meals as well as caring for our low income seniors.
Pedals for Progress www.p4p.org
Provides refurbished bikes for third world countries where bikes can open opportunities and lift people out of poverty.
Use Charity Navigator to research and find the most financially efficient and impactful charities in both your community and worldwide.