Knowledge Leakage

Starbucks seems to be making a huge come-back after the public uncovered the startling story of the company charging an ambulance service $130 for water near ground zero during 9/11 (Story Here). Then there was the terrible rumor that they didn’t support the war or “anyone in it.” Unfortunately, the Marine SGT that spread the rumor could not gain the momentum and word-of-mouth power behind his apology as he did the rumor.

Fortunately, a new project has been launched by Starbucks and Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) to offer a way for the American people to offer a small donation that will grow and help small businesses create and maintain jobs.

Create Jobs for USA has implemented a program that will turn a $5 donation into as much as $35 from additional financing. The donation will also earn the generous sponsor a bracelet to show solidarity in America, having given as much as possible to help the nation get back on its feet again.

Create Jobs for USA has begun program work by a generous contribution  to allow the program to offer capital grants to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that are willing to loan money to businesses in dire need of creating jobs but unable to gather the funding.

OFN is working with Starbucks by using their strong network of over 180 lending institutions to invest in this growing project. Partnered with Starbucks, well known for its broad clientele found in over 7,000 stores across the US, they hope to bring the community together so we can help each other prosper once again by spreading the word as far as possible.

Starting November 1, donations may be made on the website or in company-operated Starbucks stores. Any amount of donation is welcome and donations of $5 or more will earn the donor a red, white, and blue bracelet with the word “indivisible” inscribed on it. This will act as a reminder that we are one nation, serve as a way to urge others to join the project, and prove that one more person has done his or her part for this monumental endeavor.

CDFIs who are interested in offering help may apply for OFN Membership or a business by apply for a loan by using OFN’s CDFI locator found on the Create Jobs for USA website. Those who are unable to make a donation at this time are urged to spread the word about this project so that others may help.

Every little bit counts to help us be visibly indivisible.