I have the unique privilege of doing a project with Greater Spokane Incorporated for their Buy Local campaign. Now, admittedly, this helps me out with finishing my Masters degree at Gonzaga (May 8th, 2010 here I come!), but in the short time of research, I have found so much more.
I had the opportunity to meet with their "Executive Board" members at a planning meeting. I'll tell you what, these are no ordinary ladies! After less than two hours, these are people who you know they are beautiful inside and out! Their involvement in this campaign is way beyond a selfish pursuit to support their own businesses. Way beyond. In a matter of moments, you see the conversation take off and then you witness something truly spectacular...raw enthusiasm, zest for life, love of and belief in people and commitment to help others. This is no ordinary committee indeed. They have a selflessness that fuels this passion to serve our community. These people are a positive force that will change our city for the better! I'm delighted to be a part, if even for a short time.
I have always felt a certain smug satisfaction about my commitment to our local businesses and helping the "little guy" out, but I have a whole new appreciation of what Buy Local really means. It means making our purchasing decisions speak of our priorities; it means a commitment to sustainability; it means, well frankly, it means do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It's as simple as that. A basic rule of support, dignity, care and strength for our local businesses who make this great city so amazing. For the restaurants and shop owners, the business men and women who risk all to provide for us, for the repair shop, the bank or the worker...if we want it, we have to take responsibility to sustain it. Buy Local. It's much more than a trend, it's the future of our great city that we love. I'm committed.
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Sally! Thank you so much for taking on Buy Local as a master's project and then totally vibing right along with us. As you know, Buy Local to us, means supporting all the folks who live and work here in our very own region - no matter how small or large the business, no matter who the owner is. All these businesses pay taxes, wages, and take care of our every need. Join us as we celebrate the Buy Local campaign... but more importantly celebrate this amazing community.
ReplyDeleteAs a woman who has worked in this community for years, first as a corporate employee who's job description included embracing all things local, and then as a local small business owner myself, I have had the opportunity to meet so many great people, 3 of whom are on this committee. Dawn, Deena, and Lucinda, I am right there with you supporting your efforts, even as I myself prepare to leave Spokane on life's next adventure. I will take with me many lessons learned on HOW to treat people. Being INVOLVED goes way beyond throwing a few donations in a kettle each year. I love you all and I LOVE what you are doing for Spokane!!! - Nyla
ReplyDeleteBuy Local has not only impacted my buisness but has impacted our region. Every day people talk to me about the campaign, and what it means to them. Its exciting to see this idea being so widely used.. I always say Buy Local Give Local, as this is how we suport our community. Thanks for kind words. Deena Caruso
ReplyDeleteI was reading in Matthew 2 days ago and thought of you and this post. (sorry it took me a while to tell you about it :) Matthew 25:34 - 36 Jesus is talking about separating the sheep from the goats. for wehn I was hungry and you game Me food... I love your heart for people. It is such a shining example of our precious Lord. I appreciate you, Sally. Keep dreaming.(I just read that post) I can't wait to see it materialize :)
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