You may have noticed that a big part of what we're trying to accomplish with the NetworkInAustin events is more productive networking. Not just talking and writing about it, but demonstrating it in an experiential way. If you're like me you learn a lot better by doing or experiencing something rather than reading about it or being told about it. Which brings us to the next step in highly productive and meaningful networking.

I've written and talked before about the idea of Passionate Involvement. In my experience this form of networking is by far the most powerful and creates the best outcomes for you and your community. This is such an important concept we wanted to create ways for you to experience these benefits in a low-risk way that will also have a tremendous impact on local organizations here in Austin.

Enter "NetworkInAustin Gives." The idea behind this initiative is to partner with a different local non-profit organization each quarter and offer a couple of ways we can get involved together. With each of these quarterly programs there will be a volunteering component and a fundraising component where you can get involved with one or both aspects. We'll be partner with a variety of organizations in an effort to broaden your horizons and understanding of the many different causes who want and need your help here in Austin.

Our hope is that these programs reach beyond just the NetworkInAustin membership. Networking is not just something that happens when you're out at events or in a professional setting. All of your relationships are important: Family, friends, co-workers, church, neighbors, etc. We hope that you'll use these projects as a tool to help strengthen all of your relationships. We'll be working to keep these opportunities broad enough that you can get many people involved. Demonstrate your leadership and value to your organization by raising money for one of the causes, or bring together a group of your close friends to volunteer.

In the end we hope to strengthen our own community and the broader Austin community through giving. Please join us in NetworkInAustin Gives!

Happy Networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com