Business Success Blog: Success Means 'Making a Difference'

I've shared this with virtually every audience that I've been privileged to address - whether it's entrepreneurial focused, or otherwise. This principle is just that important! What is it?

Find a worthwhile cause, one that you truly believe is making a difference, and then build creative ways of supporting that cause through your entrepreneurial venture!

For some, having their own business allows them to continue and expand the support they've provided to great causes in the past. For others, this is brand new territory! But it's an exciting opportunity to build on the things you personally value, align them with priorities for your business, and take that support to an entirely new level! Regardless of the path you take, be sure to incorporate that important step, and lend a ‘helping hand’ to some of the many organizations and good causes that are working hard to make a difference in the lives of others!

Here's one story that I'd like to share with you. It was several months ago that I was invited to be the keynote speaker at an annual community breakfast. Seated at my table were Art and Beth Brochu. As we shared conversation over breakfast, Art told me of the fundraising he'd been doing for the Children's Wish Foundation in Alberta. The longer I listened, the more I thought of how absolutely "awesome" this was, so I asked Art to keep me informed, and I promised to share an update with those in my circle of contacts.

So let me tell you just a little about the “Art Cycles for Wishes” fundraiser which is now underway in Alberta!

Art’s cycling journey will again be raising awareness and donations for the Children's Wish Foundation – a Canadian organization that's helped nearly 25,000 sick children and their families. Art will be riding his bicycle a distance of 5,300 km from Fort Hills, Alberta on May 1, 2017, through numerous communities across Alberta, and will conclude on July 20, 2017 at Edmonton City Hall.

Now, as if 5,300 km isn’t a ‘daunting enough’ goal, one that would cause many well-conditioned individuals to step back from the challenge, let me assure you that Art’s been ‘around the block’ a few times. This isn’t his ‘first bike ride', and he’s no rookie! In fact, in 2014, at 70 years of age, Art cycled 9,285 km across Canada for the same worthy cause!

As he did then, this military veteran will be speaking with audiences along the way about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As we’re now learning, PTSD not only affects "First Responders" - those in occupations such as Fire, Emergency Medical Personnel, Police and Military, but it can also affect anyone that’s experienced a significant lost. His hope in sharing this message is to help raise awareness of PTSD, it's impact in all of our lives, and the important message that ‘help is available’ to those affected.

Art Brochu has done a lot for this cause, but he's very quick to thank all who've supported their efforts. Many have jumped onboard: Alberta communities and Lion's Clubs International have banded with caring individuals along this route and beyond to show their support - hosting events along Art's cycling route, donating funds, and raising awareness in their local areas.

Art's adventure is now underway. It began with a rougher than anticipated start and a few unexpected delays. Add to that, some 'colder than normal' temperatures' and a heavy spring snowfall across much of the region. But it’s the warmth and generosity of people that continues to propel Art and his team forward. As has been said, "Wishes Work Wonders and create lasting, happy family memories."

To close, we say: “Great work Art ... You're making a difference; ride on!”

To follow Art Brochu and offer your encouragement and support during his Alberta Ride for the Children's Wish Foundation, please contact:

Art Brochu, “Art Cycles for Wishes”

P: (780) 975-3541

E: abrochu@telusplanet.net

Business Success Blog

Saturday, May 13, 2017

Success Means 'Making a Difference'

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