World Bum

Rey Ramsey, CEO of One Economy Corporation

In their own words: One Economy Corporation is a global nonprofit organization that uses innovative approaches to deliver the power of technology and information to low-income people, giving them valuable tools for building better lives. Our mission is to maximize the potential of technology to help low-income people improve their lives and enter the economic mainstream.

Why I like them: Building broadband / wireless infrastructure in underdeveloped neighborhoods of this US, doing the same in struggling countries in Africa and Asia, creating helpful and relevant content, convening coporate and government partners aptly to accomplish their (usually win/win) goals… They connect disadvantaged folks to the Internet and plug them into information and tools that help them improve their own lives. They create opportunities where it matters most.

Impact story: I had a recent post about this. Check out the video. It talks about how One Economy partnered with a community leader (Vivian Saunders) and with the Birtie County (NC) government to create a technology focused school (called “The Hive” after One Economy’s resource website The Beehive) for young men who haven’t just dropped out, but are unwanted by the traditional school system, or anyone else in most cases. After just one short year of great results, the program will be expanded to accommodate about 50 students, which is twice the number they started with. In the after school hours and on weekends, the Hive’s computer facilities double as a community center and a career advancement resource to the citizens of Bertie County.

How you can get involved: I’m pleased to see that donating is low on the One Economy list of ways to support their work. More important are: content creation through their two websites www.pic.tv and www.247townhall.org; for young adults there’s the program called “Digital Connectors“; or you can participate in their networking portal and blog called “The Idea Network“. Donations are nice too.

Cool brand asset: There isn’t much of a brand strategy here to speak of — even visually this organization and its sub brands aren’t groundbreaking. However, One Economy’s brand does have a secrets weapon. Its founder CEO, Rey Ramsey. I’ve had the opportunity to talk with Rey in person and he is one of those people who not only have the vision and the creative brainpower; he also has the leadership allure that draws people to follow him and remain loyal to the organization. Ray is connected and sought after.  Because of him, One Economy is a place where corporate and political alliances are forged and nurtured, all in support of the measurable results the organization rightfully takes credit for. The danger with a super start CEO… is that if he were ever to leave his baby in someone else’s hands, the organization will suffer a long and uncertain period of transition. I hope he stays there for a long time.

What the authorities say: Charity Navigator gives them 4/4 stars.