Introducing myself and my journal: Believing in the Future

About Me:
I've spent most of my life advocating for social justice and working to end poverty in the U.S. I've headed 2 different community action agencies, organizations that were created in the 1960's as part of Pres.Lyndon Johnson's declaration of an "unconditional war on poverty" to replace "despair with opportunity" and "allow each and every American to achieve his/her basic hopes". That vision still holds true for me, even though we are far from reaching our goal.

Today I'm retired and able to focus on what has always been very close to my heart - the wellbeing of girls and women. Hillary Clinton said recently that the critical unfinished business of the 21st century is the status of women - the right of women to live free from violence, to educate themselves, to realize their hopes and dreams.

I recently helped organized a local One Billion Rising event. It was one of the most exhilerating events of my life.

My Passions:
Reading, traveling, movies, walking, time with family and friends, good food, and, of course, my dog

My Challenges:
Focusing on where I can be most effective

My Vision for the Future:
A world where disagreements are settled peaceably, people work together collaboratively, everyone is treated fairly and with dignity, and we protect the world's resources

My Areas of Expertise:
Administration, fundraising, organizing, networking