Shoreditch Grand Prix

One of my favorite “what’s new” newsletters reports the following today: “On August 31st, the streets of Shoreditch, London, will be overrun by adults on kids’ tricycles as part of a new annual race to benefit local charities and social entrepreneurs.”

This to me is the apex of a social citizen approach to giving. The town clears the streets, the people act a little silly, get together for a cause, and focus the good on having fun. Business gets involved to help market, promote, and sponsor the event. And a nonprofit dedicated to uncovering and supporting a diverse set of do-good-while-doing-well companies gets the proceeds, with even more support coming from an online auction that sends the designer trikes to the highest bidder.

Everybody has a role to play. Fun is at the heart of doing good. Technology provides ongoing opportunities to give and get involved. The point is: it takes a village to raise a social entrepreneur.

I love it. All I can say is grab me a juice box and some Cracker Jacks, I’m ready for a day at the races …