The topic in the news, blogs, radio, television and water cooler conversations is all about the economy and the upcoming election. There may be a spotlight on the issues now and "Blog Action Day" may be shining attention on Poverty today, October 15, 2008 but for many poverty is a daily way of life.

Everyone needs to get involved. Adults and children are starving. Millions suffer from preventable disease. There is a lack of clean drinking water.

Global poverty is like a rock dropped into a pond it has a far reach rippling effect. It is time for us to dare to challenge the status quo.

We need to multiple our efforts to fight poverty and find solutions. We need to create our own rippling effect. We can't leave it up to governments and non-profits. We need to be creative.

The Susan G. Komen Campaign has gotten hundreds of companies to come on-board in the battle to find a cure for Breast Cancer. They have harnessed the power of corporations. Pink versions of everything from Snickers Candy to Designer Apparel has flooded the market. It creates a win-win-win situation. The company wins because it increases their visibility and sales. The consumer wins because they are able to maximize their household funds purchasing products they want and need while knowing they are contributing to a cause they believe in. The charity wins when it gets funding to find a cure.

Bono launched the (Red) Campaign to fight Aids and was able to get the Gap, Hallmark and Dell to create Red Products. Once again the consumer is able to get the products they need and help at the same time.

Habitat for Humanity has also gotten Corporate America involved as well as volunteers. They also require that the recipient be involved.

Non-perishable food is being collected at sporting events and concerts to fill the empty shelves at the food bank. The need for food is greater than what is available.

A local man makes sandwiches after work each Thursday and delivers them to the homeless in downtown St. Pete. He has been doing it for years. Everyone gets a sandwich, a little dessert cupcake and some coffee. Many call him an angel for his kindness. One man makes a difference.

Oprah had a show on last year that showed how people could take their good intentions and multiple them when they got others involved.

One person can make a difference. But when it comes to fighting poverty by providing opportunities for education, employment, food and healthcare the more the merrier.

Just because poverty has always been part of world history it doesn't mean it needs to be part of our future. Together we can dare to challenge the Status Quo. Get involved and pass it on.