Towards the end of the Blue Sweater, Jacqueline Novogratz
summarizes some of the lessons she learned over years of working in Africa,
India, and Pakistan. She steers readers and potential future volunteers away
from the belief that sentimentality and inspiration are the sole tools needed
to make a difference. The answers to poverty are found by encouraging
accountability and gaining perspective. Novogratz writes “people usually tell
you the truth if you listen hard enough”; it is all about paying attention and
listening to the needs of the people instead of attempting to implement
preformed ideals.
The story of the Blue Sweater is a unique perspective into
the interconnectedness of the planet through the global economy. Novogratz
recognized the capacity for the human spirit in places that others doubted and
refused to help. She makes it clear that every person and every family comes
from poverty at some point down the line, yet we all seem to forget our roots.
It is not individual heroes that will make the change but everyone that comes
together to take part in the vision. Building a vision that generations can
carry forward, participate, and believe in will have the power to create
lasting global change.
The Acumen has reached investment numbers of over $100,000,000
as a growing number of people around the world have heard her call and volunteered
their services. The difference that Jacqueline Novogratz has been able to
already make is truly amazing but her vision for creating global citizens will
continue to influence for many years to come.
