A great example of an organization that is making a difference is San Francisco-based Global Exchange. I had the privilege of working with the Reality Tour Director, Malia Everette, on their Africa programs (read the Tanzania blog entry to learn more about my experience). However, this video sums up the groundbreaking work and contributions of the organization to the global community. While most organizations focus on one or a two issues, GX addresses numerous issues afflicting societies worldwide. Peace building. Sustainable tourism. Sweat shops. Human rights. Women empowerment. Clean energy economy. And more. So watch the video, be informed and inspired to get involved with GX!

This week, from July 7th - 9th, Japan is hosting the 2008 G8 Summit. World leaders will be brought together to discuss the best approaches in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by the year 2015. Main topics of the Summit will include; environment and climate change, Arican development, world economy and peacebuilding in targeted regions of conflict.

In consideration of climate change and other environmental issues, Yasuo Fukuda, the Japanese Prime Minister, ensures that the preparation and operation of the Summit is environmentally friendly. Eco-friendly measures range from waste management, meeting materials, ‘green’ building procedures of the main facility, clean energy shuttle buses for participants and carbon offset measures.

To date, numerous advances have been made to collectively achieve the MDGs. For example, Millennium Promise is mobilizing a global networks of partners to achieve the goals. In partnership with Sumitomo Chemical, one of the world’s largest multinational chemical companies, about 330,000 anti-malaria bed nets have been distributed to Millennium Villages.  Additionally, the partnership with the Japanese non profit, Table for Two, provides assistance for the school meal programs in Malawi, Rwanda and Uganda.

The answer lies not just in the hands of our world leaders and corporations, but also in the efforts of citizens and communities. We can all make a difference, so support an organization today!