Giving Back
By Harris Sherline
June 8, 2009
Page 2 of 2
As with all preceding generations, young people should first gain experience and contribute to society by working and producing the goods and services that support the economy.
Drawing on my personal experience, I devoted about 15 years of my adult life to charitable work, beginning in my late 30s. Having served on about six non-profit boards at various times, including over four years as the president of a major health agency and chairman of a hospital board for another six, I can attest to the value of community service. However, I didn't become involved until I had completed my education and was working full time in the private sector.
My specialized education and training were assets that could be employed to help the organizations I served, and I "gave back" by "donating" time, effort, energy and expertise to help them.
Over the years, I have known many outstanding business and professional people who did the same. They all "gave back" while working productively at a job or profession or running a business and, I might add, paying taxes and also giving financial support to their particular causes.
I just don't think non-profit organizations are the right place for young people to launch their working lives. A college education is only the beginning of a young person's career, not the end. The process continues with on-the-job training and real world experience that never ends. The best time to "give back" is when you have the background, expertise and skills to make a difference.
---
Read more of Harris Sherline's commentaries on his blog at "opinionfest.com"
--------------------
Note -- The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, views, and/or philosophy of GOPUSA. >> Back -- Page 1 2
++ Discuss this topic in The Forum
Current rating:  5.0 out of 5.0 (5 total votes)
| 
