We entrepreneurs are multi-talented. We use creativity, business acumen, relationship skills and communication skills every day. We are also passionate and have a real knack for what it is that we do.

Today is Blog Action Day, and the topic is poverty. How cool - over 10,000 bloggers around the world are having a global conversation to raise awareness about poverty. This inspired me to ask, have you ever thought about what you could do with your skills beyond your business? We all know about working “in” your business, and working “on” your business. But what about working outside your business to help someone rise above poverty?

There is an organization in my community called Bridge of Hope. They help women who are leaving violent relationships. Many times, these women leave on short notice - without packing a bag, without anything to their name, with kids in tow. Many of these women leave with no job, no money, and no means to support themselves. In the past, I’ve donated to this cause, but I’ve also taught these women how to write resumes and how to confidently interview.

In the past, there was an organization near me that provided low cost and no cost classes to teach people how to start businesses. These classes were geared toward those below a certain income level. I volunteered to speak to those groups.

What inspired me most about being part of these organizations, was the determination and drive that the participants had to change their circumstances. It was amazing to watch them transform… they were a true testament to the phrase “anything is possible.” I felt a real connection with them because we all had the same goal for our lives - professional and personal success… sometimes I felt like I had a head start, not having to overcome some of the huge obstacles that these people were facing.

Wathcing people thrive in spite of circumstance reaches right to the core of your soul.

I challenge you to think about how you can use your skills to help empower someone to rise above poverty. Check your local area for organizations that give budding entrepreneurs a jump start. You can check with your church to see if they know of any organizations that might put your talents to work. Heck, maybe even start your own movement. Why not offer classes for low cost or no cost at your local library. Or partner with your city or other organizations to offer classes and resources.

There’s a great web site called Volunteer Match that can help you find organizations in your area as well.

If you want to help globally, check out Kiva.org. This amazing site allows you to donate to entrepreneurs in developing countries to help them rise above poverty.

Let’s inspire each other to help people rise above poverty. I would love to hear how you’ve volunteered in your community - or if you know of any other organizations that help those in poverty, feel free to post them in the comments section.