PRLog (Press Release) –
Apr 25, 2008 – Toronto – TakingITGlobal was one of 25 organizations around the world recognized as having a democratic workplace by WorldBlu, Inc., an Atlanta-based business specializing in organizational democracy. The Toronto-based non-profit charitable organization also received the Worldwide Award for the Most Democratic Workplaces in 2007, making TakingITGlobal one of thirteen repeat winners of this prestigious honour.
“We envision a world where young people are more inspired, informed and involved in their communities on local, national and international levels and we feel that upholding democratic principles is integral to achieving this,” says Jennifer Corriero, co-Founder and Executive Director. “Effective change starts from within and we believe that by upholding democratic principles ourselves our members will notice our example and be inspired to become active global citizens.”
TakingITGlobal has been called a “social network for social good;” its Online Community is a platform for nearly 200,000 youth around the world to get information and resources on global issues, and to make friends and share experiences on making a positive impact in their communities. With a staff of 25 young people from a wide range of ethnic, professional and academic backgrounds, TakingITGlobal also runs a number of education and local engagement programs around the world.
“This is a great honour for TakingITGlobal, especially as it recognizes how effective our staff are in their respective roles,” says Luke Walker, Director of Education Programs. “By practicing democracy we are able to share our ideas, participate in important dialogue and meaningfully engage in our work, fostering a healthy and positive work environment where innovation can flourish.”
Every staff member is given the opportunity to become deeply involved in the planning process of any project, and is actively encouraged to contribute to discussions and feedback sessions. The monthly Above & Beyond Awards are given to the staff member that goes beyond the call of duty; the winner is voted by his/her peers who also provide anonymous positive feedback. In April, an open “Kudos” system was also implemented where quick compliments are given by staff members to their peers.
“Democratic workplaces operate on the principles of freedom rather than fear and control,” explains Traci Fenton, WorldBlu Founder and CEO. “Democratic companies understand that the future of business is less about pomp and more about participation, less about titles and more about meaning, and less about fiefdoms and more about being flat in order to be competitive in this new, democratic age.”
TakingITGlobal also developed an online workspace that allows everyone to contribute to its various programs. Mirroring the front-end online community, staff and volunteers collaborate on projects, sharing documents and managing tasks. Monthly reports are also generated by the leadership team which can be accessed by everyone, encouraging transparency and accountability.
About TakingITGlobal: As an international organization led by youth and empowered by technology, TakingITGlobal connects youth around the world to find inspiration, information and get involved in improving their local and global communities. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, with a growing worldwide presence, the organization's flagship program’ TakingITGlobal.org, serves as the most popular online community for young people interested in connecting across cultures and making a difference.
