INSPIRED IMPACT is an ongoing blog series that gives voice to purpose-driven organizations and passionate leaders and entrepreneurs who are making an impact in their communities and industries.
Bri Erger is the Director of Programs of US-Brazil Connect. Follow them on Facebook and Linkedin and YouTube and learn more at us-brazil.org.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Bridging the worlds of business, education, and the arts, US-Brazil Connect was established to expand opportunities for people and communities from Brazil and the United States to come together in mutually-beneficial exchange. We use the power of public/private partnerships to strengthen education, build awareness and improve skills in the United States and Brazil by connecting communities, engaging leaders, and creating opportunities.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
Our mission is to engage conscious leaders, connect communities, and provide access to a transformative learning experience linking the US and Brazil.
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
We have worked with more than 500 young leaders in the US and 5,000 young people in Brazil. Together, they have engaged in more than 650,000 hours of learning and exchange. They take what they learn and experience in our program and use it to leverage other leadership and professional opportunities.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
Future generations inspire our work. We know conscious leaders are what it will take to make a better world. The way we bring people together to see new possibilities and open world views inspires us.
WHAT’S YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE ORGANIZATION AND THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?
Our big dream is to continue impacting young people in the US and Brazil to become engaged global citizens and leaders.
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU NEED TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?
We need partners who will join us and work together to accomplish shared goals. We also need people and organizations to provide financial support so we can continue to offer our programs without charging the participants who wouldn’t be able to pay program fees.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
Right now, our biggest challenge is in development and fundraising. We are looking for individuals, organizations, and foundations who believe in our work and can help us continue this important work.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Believe in the power of human connection. Some of the most incredible people I have met have come into my life in the most unexpected situations. Listen to the stories people tell you. Our humanity depends on connecting to and caring for each other.
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
Check out our website for information on how you can be involved.
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