Social Innovation Round Up

Discussion starters in Social Innovation this week

• Philanthropy is a linchpin to social innovation

While it is undeniable that it is easier to improve lives with financial resources than without, this deserves some digging into. The author blithely dismisses the idea that any philanthropists use their means to influence or control social movements, anyone who has read Dark Money, or witnessed the strategic social investment strategy of some private foundations may find that dismissal a bit glib. And if we begin with the idea that change is only possible with a dumping-in of resources from ‘outside’, where does this leave asset-based community development?

• Do companies need bosses? Co-operatives and the social economy explained

People over profit and democratic governance are definitely essential values in our systems change work. Understanding how co-operatives and the social economy work gives you a powerful way to refute every jerk who tells you you’re a starry-eyed idealist who doesn’t understand the way the REAL world and economy work. (DYK that 1 in 10 working people across the world work in a co-operative?)

• Social entrepreneurship that develops complex thinking

“Social entrepreneurship goes beyond innovation and the development of a good idea. It is also an excellent way to address local problems more efficiently and sustainably than philanthropy and altruism.” This article goes deep into the pedagogy to explore why, if you care about the world, you might choose to pursue a social entrepreneurship degree over an MBA. 

• St. Stephen Works To Address Homelessness As A Community
• St. Stephen sees increase in people sleeping rough

St. Stephen New Brunswick, a community with a population of a little over 4,000 people, is striking a group to work to fight homelessness. About 30 citizens have been identified as unhoused. 

• P.E.I. minister has harsh words for city mayor, council over homeless shelter vote
• Charlottetown council unanimously rescinds emergency shelter deferral
• Emergency homeless shelters start arriving in Charlottetown 

Homelessness is the issue on everyone’s minds. These three headlines describe a one week drama in Charlottetown in the process of getting zoning law variances approved in order to set up modular shelters. Change can happen, quickly, even down to the laws required.