Love.Futbol (a 501(c)3 non-profit/social enterprise) has created  safe spaces for soccer in 18 underserved communities in Guatemala and Brazil.  They empower these communities to take ownership over their own soccer field projects  and their  resulting community asset.  They  get  local companies to contribute to the maintenance of the soccer fields in return for advertising on the fences surrounding the fields.  Through this model, the soccer field becomes much more than a space to play; it becomes an expression of community empowerment and platform for local enterprise.  A well run soccer field instantly becomes a focal point for community events such as – music concerts and advertising for local businesses.

Living a “positively present” life means living in the moment while focusing on the positive in every situation.  Though many of us try to, it is impossible to live happily in the past  or in the future; and if now is all we have, why not make this moment a positive experience?   Posts on www.PositivelyPresent.com strive to support the idea that life is best lived if it it’s lived right now with a positive attitude.  Dani has selfpublished STAY POSITIVE; DAILY REMINDERS FROM POSITIVELY PRESENT (learn more at www.StayPositive365.com ).  Dani also launched a design studio, TWENTY3, in which she creates downloadable content on ETSY, designs products for Society 6, and works with individuals and businesses to help create modern uplifting illustrations and designs.

Bill Fanjoy is the Director of the Department of Commerce’s Virginia and DC US Export Assistance Centers (USEAC’s). His Office helps US businesses find partners in other countries. He gave an example of a fast oil change franchiser who wanted to find business partners in other counties. USEAC advises the US business of likely promising over seas markets, the rule of law, and prospect of getting paid. The US company is vetted by USEAC and the US Embassy in the over seas country vets the prospective business partner. The US company pays a fee of $700 for USEAC’s services. If needed, the US Import/ Export Bank is used to guarantee a loan in the foreign country to finance the deal (at no cost to the US Tax Payer).