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Day 257: Social Entrepreneurs Changing the World

I love Social Entrepreneurs Changing the World. This impressive young man inspired my give today and I want to share his story. He is actual proof that Social Entrepreneurs Changing the World are important for all of us!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDB1UcP8_-k

Last week I did a series on some very special kids from Kids Are Heroes. During that week I had the opportunity to meet (via Twitter) another very special young man by the name of Jason. At the age of 15, Jason has a remarkable bio. These are just a few of the impressive things he has accomplished the list goes on:

Started his own business at the age of 9
Ranked as one of Forbes Top 10 Role Models
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2007
Young Philanthropist Award 2006
Donated over 2000 toy bears to a Children`s Hospital
TEDxRedmond Speaker
Wrote his first book on being an teen entrepreneur

Jason started his own business at the age of 9 called Pencil Bugs. Since it`s conception he has always donated a portion of his proceeds from the business to charity. We should  all be learning something from this remarkable young person!

Watch the video, read his story and share it in every way you know how. Email it, tweet it and FB. If you need to be inspired today I guarantee Jason will be the person to do.

Day 257: Give 257 Guest Post by Jason O`Neill

Even the smallest contribution, whether it is monetary, in the form of gifts, or the gift of time can make a big difference in someone else’s life.

I never dreamed that I could have made such a positive difference in other people’s lives as I have up to this point. I am fifteen now and started my business, Pencil Bugs, when I was nine years old. Pencil Bugs are hand crafted, bug-like pencil toppers that come on top of a #2 pencil, individually packaged with a Certificate of Authenticity. From one simple idea, my business expanded into multiple products. In 2010, I also became a published author with my business book, “Bitten by the Business Bug: Common Sense Tips for Business and Life from a Teen Entrepreneur.” Through public speaking and many interviews, I am able to share my story and inspire others.

Since the beginning of my business, I have always donated a portion of my proceeds to children’s charities. The first few years I donated to a local foster care agency. As my business grew, I realized I was able to help out kids in other ways. I set up a program with Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, California to buy toys, games, books, and I also donated my Pencil Bugs products. In addition to that, I have held an annual fundraiser to buy teddy bears for the kids in the hospital at Christmas. In 2009, with the support of many people around the world, we raised over $5,000 which was enough to buy 1800 teddy bears for the kids. 2010 wasn’t as successful, in part due to the economy, but the hospital appreciated our efforts just the same. I will be starting my 2011 teddy bear fundraiser for Rady Children’s Hospital in July. Please check my website for details and how you can help.

Giving and helping others can become a good habit. If kids learn how to do this when they are young, hopefully it will carry into their adulthood and make the world a better place for everyone. Having Young Social Entrepreneurs Changing the World will inspire other kids.

 

Time Commitement: For Jason giving is a way of life

Cost: A portion of each sale for his business is donated

What people are saying about 365give

“I wanted to express my gratitude for the teaching you provided today. Your message was delivered eloquently, compassionately, and without judgment. The kids were engaged, and now have knowledge with which they can change the world. We all appreciated how you took the time to help us learn to build positive mindsets and practice happiness.”
Shelley Gardner, Grade 6 Ridgeview Elementary (West Vancouver)
“Actions really do speak louder than words, which is why I believe the 365give Challenge has resonated throughout my community. Every give we do is so important to us and leaves us happier and appreciating our lives a little bit more than before.”
Mahina Niyozova (Tajikistan)
“After watching the 365give TEDx Talk, I was inspired to join and begin a daily giving program in India. Today, along with 12 other volunteer women, we provide 100 meals to local underprivileged children in Bangalore for school every day.”
Deepika Ahuja, Mom (Bangalore, India)
“My life has greater meaning now.”
Renate Jorge, @BeKindBrazil and 365give Member, Family Program (Brazil)
“I just wanted to share that 365give really helped me. I am a better person now, thank you.”
MayLee, 365give Member, Individual Program
“This 365give Challenge has really injected excitement and extra enthusiasm in each work day as I think about what we can do. It has motivated me and the students.”
Cristina Peters, School Counselor (New York City, USA)
“I have seen a huge shift in energy throughout my classroom since doing the 365give Challenge. The Challenge has empowered my students to make a positive difference in the school’s community and beyond.”
Cella Adriana, Special Needs Educator /The Holliswood School (New York City, USA)
“The 365give Challenge helps students understand their impact on others. It opens avenues for introducing and discussing global and local issues in classrooms. It is powerful to watch students of all ages think about how they can make a change in another person’s life with one small act.”
Jessica Hall, Primary Teacher, French Immersion at École Pauline Johnson (West Vancouver, Canada)