How I Hustle: Marrying Innovation with Philanthropy in the Digital Age

Let’s kick things off by saying the tech world is a jungle, and I’m swinging from the digital vines like Tarzan with a Macbook. But this isn’t about me flexing my coding muscles or my love-hate relationship with dog hair from Bella and the gang. Nope. Today, it's about how the likes of ‘Social influence networks’ and ‘Charity donation platforms’ are revolutionizing the way we think about giving back. Buckle up!

Why a Tech Guy Like Me Cares So Much About Philanthropy

Truth bomb: I wasn't always into the whole charity scene. But let’s just say life, Ashley, and a couple of eye-opening documentaries changed that. Now, I'm all in. Why? Because I believe technology shouldn't just make us money or turn our homes into smart homes – it should make us better humans too.

With my background in app development and branding, I see a goldmine of opportunities to bridge tech with charity. Think about it: if we can streamline online shopping to the point where you can accidentally buy a kayak at 2 AM (yes, that happened), why can't we make donating just as frictionless?

The Future of Fundraising: It’s Not Your Grandma’s Bake Sale

Enter digital appeals and social influence networks. Fundraising is no longer about shaking cans at the mall. It's about creating compelling digital content that clicks, shares, and converts. And who better to make that happen than a tech-savvy, former Air Force guy who can debate the finer points of George RR Martin’s characters while debugging an app?

In my experience, the power of social networks is not just in the reach but in the ability to engage and create communities around causes. My sons, Ethan and Zachary, might be into chess and basketball, but they’re also my go-to consultants on what appeals to the younger crowd.

Championing Charity Through Innovation

Here's where business mentor matchmaking comes into play. I connect with up-and-coming entrepreneurs who are as passionate about making a difference as they are about profitability. We brainstorm, we prototype, and yes, sometimes we fail – but when it clicks, it really clicks.

And let's not forget about legacy giving. It's not just an old-school concept of leaving money to charity in your will. With today’s tech, we can create systems that allow people to see the impact of their legacy in real time. Imagine a live feed of the school you’re helping to build with your donation. Pretty cool, right?

Why This All Matters

• It’s about impact, not just income.
• Engagement over passive interest.
• Creating a community, not just a campaign.
• Real-time results, tangible change.
• Empowering the next generation of philanthropists.

And to wrap this up, I’m not just talking the talk here. Ashley and I, along with our kids and yes, even the dogs, are putting our time and resources into this. It’s a family affair, and it’s close to our hearts.