WEF is coming in January. And, direct from the horse’s mouth: “a closer examination of the international environment also reveals that leadership vacuums are beginning to emerge on a wide range of critical issues looming on the horizon. Moreover, a paradox has emerged in our networked world where knowledge is ubiquitous and change is rapid, but the absence of a common vision and agenda ensures that the status quo will be maintained with respect to major global challenges.” LINK There are five “pillars,” Business, Economics and Finance, Geopolitics, Science and Technology, Values and Society.

Leadership vacuums, ahem. We see a leadership vacuum of our own...as there is increasing debate about the delivery and value of “charity,” and the move to social investing, with all its baggage. We read articles EVERYWHERE that debate the status of foundations, evaluation, program effectiveness and more. From national articles calling for accountability, to regional articles that are basic tutorials on how not to get scammed, charity is in the news. The rise of volunteerism, charity watch groups and cynicism among potential donors is on the rise.

While we can’t host our own WEF, we can start to fight back. According to a recent post of Guy Kawasaki, it is word of mouth referrals that power decision makers, not necessarily “influencers.” Okay, this is related to online communications — and is advertising based.  However, there may be something to it for our space. How does the macro (WEF) trickle into the micro (our daily work). Think the Devil Wears Prada. (Miranda’s lecture on the evolution of the lumpy blue sweater). Or, for our community: how do we bubble UP.

Our community is head-down doing good work. Measuring it. Testing it. Changing its programs as needed. Take a moment to share your successes outside our community – tell a colleague. Tell a friend. Go viral. Why? Because we believe real anecdotes, successes and challenges are what will make a difference.