The memory of Vietnam, and the need to make things different

I serve on the board of directors of a newly formed non-profit. We will assist returning veterans as they ease back into the workforce after a lengthy deployment. They have asked for my help in marketing their organization for fundraising and other purposes.

What is their message? Why did they set up the non-profit? Why would people make donations?

My new friend and board member Dante had fire in his eyes. "Do you want to know why I'm here? I was in Vietnam and when I came home, no one was looking to help me. We were treated poorly...even spit on. I will see to it that no returning veteran is ever treated the way I was."

Dante is inspired by what was one of the worst eras in American history. He is committed to making things different due to the honor and respect he has for the uniform. I fully understand his why.

There's something inside all of us that effects our beliefs and mission. Tap into it...don't let it lay dormant.

Champions of "why"...Wounded Warrior Project

"People don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it." - Simon Sinek

In the case of the Wounded Warrior Project their mission statement summarizes their "why":

"To foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history."

On the heels of the Vietnam War era it's understandable why an organization would have this mission. 

I selected the Wounded Warrior Project as the first of many organizations I will feature who have a clear sense of why they do what they do. The goal of most organizations is to be successful, and sustain for the long term. Wounded Warrior Project didn't want to be "just another charity asking for money." Have you heard that sentiment before? 

Never underestimate the importance of having clarity about why you do what you do. "Why" separates you from the pack. It attracts people who believe what you believe. The veterans, WWP staff, donors, volunteers and corporate sponsors are crystal clear on why they work together. 

My goal for this blog is to initiate a conversation about the importance of "why" and how it can inspire us to take action.