In Praise of 'Mr X'. May His Numbers Multiply
This is a thank you note.
Last year, someone did something so amazing, that the only way I could think to thank him is to use him as an example. I hope that his actions inspire other people to copy him, starting a movement.
Two years ago, a colleague brought me a text message we had received from one of our members. It read: "He won't stop raping me. Its my dad. He told me not to tell anyone. Are u there?"
We were horrified. And, we were humbled that this girl had turned to us. That day, we decided to build a Crisis Text Line. It would be 24/7, available for free, and cover every possible crisis issue. It is a very big, disruptive, important idea. I've spent the last two years working on it and am happy to report that it launched last week. To read more about the idea and how it works, see www.CrisisTextLine.org.
This post isn't about Crisis Text Line itself. Its about how hard it is to start something new.
"Friends and family" is the first place most people start. And, I did too. Some friends and family were helpful — contributing money, making introductions, etc. But, mostly I was disappointed by the lack of interest and responsiveness. Frankly, I should know better.
Crisis Text Line is my 3rd social change initiative. One common thread? Friends and family are the first place we turn ... and yet, are rarely the most helpful. Why?
- Because their interests are not the same as mine
- Because they have passions and jobs of their own
- Because they are friends and family, and that is very different from someone you might start a company with
- Because we often don't make very clear specific asks of people we love — instead assuming they should just intuit that we need their help.
Mr X asked a few good questions. And then, without me asking, he offered $50,000 in start up funds. I was shocked. I think I literally laughed out loud with joy. He explained that too many great ideas don't happen because they spend too much time trying to cobble together 5k contributions from angels to get started. He said he understood that it was entirely possible that Crisis Text Line might never happen — but that at least early money wouldn't be the reason.
He didn't ask for a press release or his name on our letterhead or a board seat. He just told me to go try my best to build something great.
To this day, I have not met Mr X in person. But more than anyone else who has helped us get from idea to launch (and a LOT of people have been really awesome), Mr X was pivotal. He made it financially possible, he put me to work, he gave us confidence, he was the first for others to follow, and he made me smile at a time of frustration.
So, this is my official thank you to Mr X. It is in the form of a plea to those who can afford it: The next time someone brings you an idea that you think is great, don't give them half the money. Give them enough that it makes them laugh out loud and lets them get started on building something great.
English Const: Company at English Construction
10 年I believe in living while I can and have the most fun out of lite I don't want to be no CEO or Boss the world is full of than. They don't have no fun I only tell people what to do if they ask. If they want me jest call me I like to make people happy. I well help any one if I can. Have a good day every body.
Show Runner/Commercial Director/Journalist/Digital Creative @Various Production Companies
11 年Really nice story.
Great story. I'm sure part of the reason you were able to receive the seed fund with a 10 minute phone call had to do with the prep work before that call.
Employee Assistance Professional
11 年What a wonderful story and it's great to know that the behind the scenes folks who are willing to seed money for good causes still exist. The fact that you were able to receive such seed money in a 10 minute phone call is truly amazing. No RFI's, RFP's or other paperwork! I checked out the website and think it's a really good idea. Would love to learn more about the inner-workings.
Marketing Consultant *Sevashram Kadhi village industry Raichur
11 年Thanks for sharing the story