The biggest point that stuck out to me at today's lunch on microfinance was Jonathan Neddenriep's advice that if we truly hope to make a difference in serving the poor then we must hone our skills. Become great at a skill that's very useful. Jonathan- he's a software designer. How does that help the poor? He's created the software platform that Opportunity International uses to raise money to give loans to very poor people who know how to use the money. And, he's helped create awareness for people to get actively involved. See the site he's developed (OptInNow) and get involved- give someone a $25 gift card for a Christmas gift. So, what about you? What skills do you have? What skills can you gain?

Is it possible for business to be a part of the solution to the problem of poverty? Are there new and creative ways to think about profit? Business models? Products? What do you think?

Have you read any books or been on websites that you can pass along?

Seth Godin, marketing and branding guru, has a great post on his blog about Acumen Fund and how to address the endless emergency of poverty. What do you think? See post here and respond.