In my previous blog-post, I talked about how I discovered the vitality of Hartford’s non-profit/community service scene. Since then, I refocused my work with The Purpose Project to doing research on Hartford’s most effective social leaders. Surprisingly, this task includes a lot less walking than one would expect - but much more talking. My research has already had a profound impact on me, because I am beginning to see the threads of some really interesting stories in the information I’ve been gathering on each person. As a hopeful up-and-coming social leader myself, I can’t help but be inspired. As I think about my own place in the world of social involvement, I’ve started to consider some of the characteristics that define a social leader, and how someone who wants to make a difference in the community can take the steps necessary to develop into that role. Read the rest of this entry »

Greetings, readers. I believe some introductions are now in order. My name is Jeff Ahking and I’m a new summer volunteer for the Purpose Project. How are you? Feel free to leave a simple “fine, thanks” in the comments section, or whisper the words softly to your computer monitor. Better yet, smile at somebody you pass on the street or say ‘hello’ and ‘how are you’ to someone you stand next to at the bus stop. Like gravity, interpersonal connections are what make the world go ‘round.

In fact, our purpose at The Purpose Project is to connect experienced social changemakers with the next generation of up-and-coming leaders. Our goal is to inspire and equip members of both generations to address the challenges facing our communities, country, and world. I chose to get involved because I like to think of myself as one of these up-and-coming leaders, but I suppose only time will tell. Read the rest of this entry »