As I read about all the people who need jobs, medical care, transportation, food, HOUSING, along with a variety of other needs and services... it only reinforces my own desire to implement some of the program ideas I've had for some time now....
What if there were a non-profit, or otherwise, that ran a car lot, where low income people or students could rent or buy a car? They could have an inventory of cars to be rented for specified periods of time, say 6 mo or a year or purchased or lease-to-own. Admittedly, it would not be an easy program to implement, but one that is SO NEEDED. You could, at the same time, be training people on sales, business, auto mechanics, auto auctions, shopkeeping, etc. The cars could and probably should, be available to the general public for purchase...that helps keep revenue coming. You would probably need to start with an inventory of about 10 cars, and a really good software package for keeping track of all the data, as well as a good webpage that invites donations, both auto and monetary, and explains the program.
That's one idea....
I've been designing a program where I would offer 'start up money' to low income and poverty stricken who would be interested in having their own internet business or going back to school. I want to start with an action group, who as a result of watching The Secret, are willing to work together on putting the principles into daily practice for at least 6 months and then those who are interested, I would offer training for internet marketing and business plans. Those interested would have to write a viable business plan, or education plan if that's what they want, and would be able to 'apply' for start up costs or education costs. It would be contractual, and rather than provide each person with a computer, there would be a central location where there would be 6-8 computer stations that can be used to start the business. Plus, there would be additional training and support available to help them launch their businesses.
Then maybe, we could offer some laptops at a discount for those who are starting to earn income from their business. Local busineses are good to hit up for charitable donations or grants just for these kinds of programs.
The other program, which I have already designed,(but needs a little revision) is a Youth Development and Self-Sustainment program for teens, ages 12-19. Again, it would be action based, using the principles of The Secret, as well as goal planning and implementation. The focus is on teaching these kids, first; to believe that they are worth it, second; that they are accountable for it, and third; they can have it. What is it? It is whatever they want... an education, good grades, better friendships, a job, a better life. Again, it would be contractual-- it won't work if the kid doesn't want to participate-- and they would have weekly support. There would be an initial assessment of their current self-sustainment skills, based on their age and developmen, and then the youth would set some short term and long term goals. Each week, they have to log in a journal, what actions they took that week toward accomplishing the goal. For those teens 15 and up, the goals would include financial needs and plans. I want to include financial education and each youth, as part of the contract would agree to attend various seminars or classes each semester: I have a friend who already teaches the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teen, a leadership class and is a Senior Leader for Young Life, a multi-cultural, spiritually based youth group. I will eventually require them to participate in ACT: Adults and Children Together, against violence. All this is to set the youth up to gain the skills necessary to be self-sustaining, in all matters of life, so that they won't require public assistance or welfare.
My friend and I are also talking about a cleaning business, where we use the Rainbow cleaning system and have the youth clean houses for the elderly or anyone who wants it. We will clean the house, the carpet and the drapes. The kids will learn cleaning skills, work ethics, teamwork, working for a boss, etc. And they will earn money, possibly towards going to camp, or simply as a wage.
I have more ideas than I could possibly ever implement on my own. I share these ideas, to solicit support of any kind, and because they can be implemented in other places, by other people.
I welcome your feedback!! 
