Debbie Gaby
There is a subtle economic transformation occurring in the United States and in much of what's called the western world towards the idea of a collaborative economy. Strong communities and businesses have newly infused into their DNA, ideas like diversity, inclusion, collaboration and most important sharing. Organizations are sharing an ancient idea that until recently had taken a backseat to consumerism and scarcity - the principle that "I'll get what I can and hold on tight to it!".
The reemergence of "sharing" as an economic model coincides with the increase of women holding key leadership positions in major corporations. Women have also been involved in the abundance of startups and the innovations within smaller businesses as well. Antje Danielson and Robin Chase's Zipcar - a concept already adopted in Europe - became the "poster child" for sharing. Their concept created a way to share, live efficiently and reduce waste in our lives.
Ethel Luzario
Two of the Positively Powerful Woman Awards recipients have been in the forefront of the new economic model. Debbie Gaby, founder and CEO of Sleep American and the 2013 Positively Powerful Philanthropy Woman Award recipient, created the Mattress Recycling Program with St. Vincent de Paul and Ethel Luzario, 2014 Non-Profit Leadership Award recipient, President and CEO of The 3000 Club and American Medical Aid recovers unused medical supplies, nutritional supplements, educational materials, personal care products and equipment, and gets them to the people in need.
Business models are changing. Change is always difficult and inevitable. Earnestly seeking an efficient and inclusive lifestyle, challenges consumerism and the ownership society, an all important ingredient of "The American Dream". The infographic on this page illustrates a few examples of how people are participating in this new economic model.
Sponsors Of The 2014 Positively Powerful Woman Awards
