I thought The Blue Sweater would be a long read, but surprised myself by reading it much as I do a novel. I read of a young woman who dared to introduce new ideas to complete strangers culturally, geographically, and politically, because she believed that those ideas, implemented, would empower women and families and regions and countries.

Jacqueline Novogratz forges through life with the firm conviction that change is possible, and she inspires-and sometimes shocks-her readers with her willingness to deal with her imperfections and mistakes as well as her successes in that quest.

Occasionally in her life, she pauses and takes a deep breath or two, and then she is on track again, seeking ways to “deliver essential services like affordable health care, safe water, housing, and alternative energy to areas where governments or charities are often failing.”

Nothing deters Novogratz as she reveals not only the resilience of others, but of herself. She provides lesson after lesson on entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship built on solid financial foundations. She asserts that people everywhere can lift themselves up, “but they have to be given the tools to do so.”

Today, the possibilities for helping fight poverty with the right tools are everywhere, and The Blue Sweater reconfirms my belief that those of us who do not live in poverty can, because of our diversity and our concern for others, help others find the appropriate tools and methods to use them.

“Building a vision for the people and recognize that no single source of leadership will ever make it happen.”