Collaboration between the philanthropic, business, and government sectors leads to $30 million in aid in Connecticut

A collaboration of state officials, the business community, and the nonprofit sector resulted in a whopping $30 million in aid. The collaboration sought this funding for economic development efforts in Connecticut's urban areas which have suffered as a result of the recession. For more on this story, which was featured in the Hartford Business Journal Online, click here.

This is one example of how collaborations truly pay off. There is strength in numbers - well in this case expertise and resources.  If you have a goal and you are able to gather everything (e.g. resources, expertise) that you need to accomplish that goal, then you are more likely to succeed because you have everything that you need.

Starbucks and the Opportunity Finance Network partner to "Create Jobs for USA"

Ever wondered what you could do to help put Americans back to work? Well Starbucks Coffee and the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) have thought of one great way that you can. Purchase an "indivisible" wristband for a minimum of $5 in one of Starbuck's company-operated stores or online at createjobsforUSA.org and 100% of your money will go towards the "Create Jobs for USA Fund" at  OFN. OFN will award these funds to community development financial institutions (CDFIs) that help finance community businesses.

Definitely a great partnership that will help address one of this issues contributing to unemployment in this economy - lack of banks lending to small businesses.  Americans can feel good about contributing because that small amount can really help create and sustain local jobs. We won't know the true impact of the program for a while but in the meantime, check out success stories on createjobsforUSA.org.