A Path Appears

The Doors of Opportunity

Everyone wants to do something meaningful to address society’s problems, but “good intentions” alone can’t ensure that your philanthropic efforts will have the effect you desire.

The American Dream argues that willingness to work hard leads to achievement and earnings. In truth, good fortune can come just as much from circumstances that no individual gets to choose. You don’t pick when and where you are born, or to whom. Growing up in poverty inhibits people’s ability to make good decisions and act productively. Compound that cognitive handicap with other environmental and societal obstacles, such as racism, fear of violence or threat of rape, and it’s little wonder people fail to break free of circumstances unless they have outside support. Instead of looking down on those hampered by the “lottery of birth,” give them a shot at success.

What does it take to open the doors of opportunity to others? How can you avoid becoming discouraged, knowing that no single action can fix the world’s problems? Recognize that doing something is always better than doing nothing. When everyone does a little something, change happens. Consider all the ...