Thankful for the strength of the human spirit -

Thankful for the strength of the human spirit - Earlier this month, I attended Civic Ventures Purpose Prize awards gala and the day of learning that followed. It seems appropriate on Thanksgiving to share another story of one of the Purpose Prize winners. I hope these stories of people who might otherwise be retired, but are instead working hard to improve their communities and the world may help many job seekers realize that nothing is impossible. The prize winners I met are dedicated to their causes and to using their skills in a way that makes a broad impact, but in many ways, they are no different from any person who is willing to overcome obstacles and has a passion for a cause. Civic Ventures, a think tank on Boomers, work and social purpose awards these Purpose Prizes that recognize and reward extraordinary efforts. Five people received $100,000 and five receive $50,000. Read my earlier profile of a prize winner Inez Killingsworth HERE. Dr. Judith B. Van Ginkel won a $100,000 prize for her work with Every Child Succeeds. The program provides in-home services for first-time, at-risk mothers including parenting support to improve the lives of young families. Upon accepting her award, Dr. Van Ginkel commented on the strength of the human spirit to go on in spite of hardships. (Learn more about Judith and her work here and read about her program, Every Child Succeeds.) Take a look at the video (below) about Judith from Civic Ventures. (See more videos at Civic Ventures site.) I will be sharing stories from winners and other remarkable people I met during the weekend in Philadelphia on my blog in the next few weeks. I hope their stories help inspire you if you are a job seeker to begin to think about how you can use your time and expertise. No matter what your age, there is something out there for you to do that makes good use of your skills. Maybe you dont want to start your own non-profit or launch a movement in your community, but there is sure to be some place or organization that needs you. You never know when that something may turn into a paid position. If you are 45+ with an idea about how to make a difference in your community or in the world, consider applying for Civic Ventures new Launch Pad award. It provides $5000 and support and mentorship to get your program started. Read more HERE. Learn more about Judith below: