Last night, Michael and I attended an informational seminar for ISID, the local chapter of Society for International Development. SID in an international, non-governmental organization whose purpose is to promote a new approach to social justice and a continuing dialogue on the basis of basic values of equality, respect for diversity. One of the main things that they do is encourage, support and facilitate the creation of a sense community amongst individuals and organizations committed to social justice at the local as well as national and international levels.

The speaker last night was Michael Diamond, President, World Resources, Chicago. "How to do well, by doing Good," was the topic. Michael has lived all over the world and seen many things most of us have never seen! Michael is helping to raise awareness with global corporations locally and nationally, on what they can do to better bring their goods and services to poor countries, be socially responsible and still show a profit.

For instance, Abbott laboratories is now offering one of their HIV drugs for free to several countries in Africa. Unilever, an international manufacturer of leading brands in foods, home care and personal care, is now making 60% of their total profits, by servicing poor countries. Michael referenced The Race To The Bottom theoretical phenomenon that has global corporations coming to the table to think outside-of-the-box about new products or packaging and forging new corporate collaborations that produce transformational opportunities that can be taken to market and create amazing win-win opportunities.

Concern Worldwide, another wonderful group with a local Chicago chapter, was also present at the meeting last night. Concern Worldwide works in 27 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Central America and Eastern Europe, providing emergency relief and long-term assistance.