Al Etmanski's blog

The fur trade in Canada provides a distant mirror for Social Finance advocates and practitioners on the complex effects of any new technology.  It makes us mindful that every intervention has side effects, both positive and negative.

I was asked by a young parent recently, what is the most common mistake made by advocates. My reply was immediate. Not following the money trail in Government. Or, as was the case in this circumstance (he was advocating for inclusive education at a local School Board), within and between levels of Government.

There is a Buddhist parable that tells of a man swept into the waters of a raging river. In panic he grasps for something solid - a rock!  Holding on with terrified certainty he drowns, burdened by the extra weight.  Burdened as well by his unwillingness to let go, to try something equally terrifying but full of promise - his survival.

Summertime and the living is easy. Except for cyclists in the grandest sporting event of the summer, Le Tour de France. And perhaps solution focused advocates. It may be the perfect time to maintain momentum - the secret of successful bike racing and lobbying.

Not sure why some non profit leaders, advocates and academics dismiss the growing social finance developments so readily and without serious consideration. This lack of curiosity is irresponsible.

We can learn a lot from successful social, economic and environmental justice movements. They give us clues, tips and inspiration about tactics and strategies we can adopt.

How do you spot the difference between a fad and a trend?

Alice laughed, "There's no use trying," she said, "one can't believe impossible things."           "I daresay you haven't had much practice," said the Queen.