“Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give. ” Eleanor Roosevelt
Giving back isn’t just something we do at Artisan. It’s a core value for both our company and our staff. Over the next few months, we’ll take a look at the way our team members are working to make their local, national, and global communities a better place.
This week we start with our Founder, Jamie Douraghy…
“Over the past few years, I’ve been asked to join several boards to help guide a variety of non-profits to achieve greater success in everything they do.
They range from the industry-related creative organizations (AIGA LA), to alumni groups, to remotely-located entrepreneurs, to helping grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses (Make-A-Wish LA).
What I found was that in order for me to give my best, I had to uncover the relevance of what I was about to undertake. I did not want to enter into a commitment half-heartedly and not deliver to their expectations.
Through my involvement with these organizations and my leadership at Artisan, I was able to facilitate the growth of these groups, help promote their events and assist with their fundraising initiatives.
What surprised me about my work on these boards, however, was that my involvement didn’t stop there. By working with these non-profits myself, I was inspired to motivate others – my friends, employees, and extended network – to find their passion and to give back.
Additionally, I wanted Artisan Creative to do more. As a result, we selected Kiva as our charity of choice to make regular contributions. We liked the fact that they are helping build local communities on a global level, supporting entrepreneurs as far as Tanzania and as close as Detroit.
So far, Artisan Creative has already made six loans to aid Agricultural efforts in Ecuador and Rwanda as well as craftsmen & dressmakers in Peru.
You can help Artisan raise more Kiva funds here.
What I learned through giving back:
- Make sure the cause resonates with you personally. If you’re not passionate about the initiatives you support, it becomes more difficult to remain motivated and involved.
- Find a purpose within the volunteering you do. Remember that giving is a commitment, not a convenience.
- Be open to change (both within and without) as a result of your engagement. You never know how helping others will help you, too.”
Jess Bedford for Artisan Creative