Topic: social responsibility

Gen Y Doesn’t Drive; Here’s Why That’s A Good Thing

Gen Y Doesn't Drive; Here's Why That's A Good Thing

There are plenty of negative stereotype for Generation Y to deal with. From laziness to entitlement, Millennials get a pretty bad rap. And now news reports day that we’re not even ambitious enough to get behind the wheel of a car. According to Reuters, Millennials just are “not driven to drive.” I see what you did there guys, very nice.

But could it be that Gen Y isn’t quick to hop behind the wheel because we’re too busy biking to work? Or maybe we realize the environmental benefits of using the subway? The way I see it, there’s nothing wrong with a little less driving. Here’s why. More »

Charitable Giving: Are We Holiday Do-Gooders Just Selfishly Easing Our Guilty Consciences?

Charitable Giving: Are We Holiday Do-Gooders Just Selfishly Easing Our Guilty Consciences?

Last year on the day before Thanksgiving, I spent about 20 minutes researching food banks in New York where my small donation could be put to good use. I settled on one that seemed particularly effective, submitted my Mastercard details, then grabbed my suitcase full of wine and sweaters and caught a cab to the airport. I boarded a flight to Detroit, where one of my best friends picked me up and drove me to Ann Arbor, after which a weekend full of friends, turkey, pies, great wine (and gin and port), and driving tours of Michigan ensued.

Since then, I’ve donated something like $20 in the form of coins and occasional dollar bills to agreeable buskers on subway platforms. (I’m especially partial to accordion players.) I used to find plenty of time to volunteer in my spare time, but haven’t managed even an hour of community service within the last 12 months. More »