CSBG

This past week I attended a two day conference on The History of CSBG (Community Service Block Grant) hosted by David Bradley. I know, the title makes it seem like the conference would be as interesting as watching mud dry. But it actually was a very intriguing, inspiring, and informative conference.

CSBG was started as part of Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty and was headed by Sargent Shriver. (Yes, Maria's father.) CSBG is a large part of what funds Community Action Agencies throughout the U.S. (Who I work for, hence the conference.) I won't go into much detail here because I'm afraid my blog post will not be as intriguing as the conference was.

But, I had quite a few thoughts that I wanted to share with you.

One - I believe humility is an important tool in powerful leadership.

Martin Luther King Jr has always been one of my favorite leaders of the 20th century. As part of the conference we watched several news clippings of his work and speeches and I came away more impressed than ever. I believe there was humility in his non-violent approach to activism. I also think to understand people in humble circumstances takes a like heart.

We also learned much about Sargent Shriver. He is now my 2nd favorite leader in the 20th century. Watching his interviews is what got me rethinking the importance of humility. He was so competent and passionate and called on to lead many important organizations (He was the first director of the Peace Corps!) but watch interviews of him and he comes across as the most sincere and humble person. You want to follow him not because he forces you, but because you want to emulate him. Seriously, if you are into watching historical podcast and such, try to find some interviews with him. You will not be disappointed!

Anyway, that will be the one thought I share today. Look for the next untimely installment which may be on the immigration debate, Albert Bandura's work on Self-Efficacy, or on my upcoming trip to Philly...