by Allison Rapson

Wendy Smith is the author of Give a Little: How Your Small Donations Can Transform Our World and has worked in the nonprofit sector for more than 20 years, operating programs and raising funds for organizations serving low-income children and families in developing countries and the U.S.  Wendy’s mission is to empower everyday donors with information about the magnitude and potential of their individual giving.

Our Conversation:

AR: What does it mean to you to be a woman?

WS: I come from a very mixed cultural lineage, so my primary identity has always been that of being a woman.  Increasingly, I feel a powerful connection to all women around the world who struggle every day to care for their families, their homes, their communities, and so very often lastly, themselves.  Women are givers.  It is in our nature to care about those close to us as well as the broader human community.  I am proud and excited to be a woman at this point in history.  I feel our opportunities to realize our personal potential and to create a better world have never been greater.  It is thrilling that my young teenage daughters perceive no barriers to pursuing their interests in life because they are female.  I want that for every girl around the world.

AR: How have you been the first?

WS: I am the first published author in my family, and being the author of Give a Little is the realization of a long-time, hard-earned dream. While the book represents a wonderful personal and professional accomplishment, far and away the biggest reward in getting it into the marketplace has been the feedback I’ve received from readers who tell me how they were informed, inspired and empowered. Their comments reaffirm for me that there is so much GOOD in people. The community of folks who are members of our Facebook page are full of caring and generosity. Visiting that page is a tonic that refills me with optimism and hope.

AR: What do you know that the women rising need to know?

WS: The world is ready and waiting for your talents and inspirations! Whatever you do in your personal and professional lives can transform the world if it reflects the best of you and your concern for others. You need not be high-powered or wealthy to make a profound contribution to humanity. You need only to believe in yourself, be courageous in your decisions, and give a little along the way to help other girls and women realize their potential as well.

CLICKABLE INSPIRATION:
Buy Wendy’s Book!
Visit the Give a Little Website