Firestarter Fieldnotes | Looking back, looking ahead

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Greetings, all, and Happy Holidays!

2020 has been anything but normal, but as we enter the final weeks, we want to take this opportunity to wish you all the best in the New Year ahead.

We are grateful for your support along this journey, and thank you for being here with us!

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FSINSPIRATION: "Spectacular achievement is always preceded by unspectacular preparation."
– Robert H. Schuller

FSARTICLES: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the fragility – and in many cases lack – of systems that support our collective health, economic, and social well-being. As outlined in Stanford Social Innovation Review's recent article The Vision of a Well-Being Economy, this is prompting some governments to "rethink the definition of a healthy and prosperous society and consider how the economy can support greater global well-being." How can we restore a more harmonious relationship between society and nature, create more healthy and resilient communities, and ensure fair distribution of resources? Iceland, Scotland, Costa Rica, and Canada are some of the leaders in this movement, with Iceland defining 39 diverse indicators of the country's well-being, tied to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, in categories from Health and Housing to Land Use and Work Life Balance (including an important quality-of-life marker I love seeing recognized, "Working During Unsocial Hours"). If we're going to realize our goals for a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous tomorrow, it's clear that we need to look beyond economic growth as the leading indicator for success and embrace a more holistic approach. We have a long way to go, but these countries are leading the way by transforming vision into policy.

FSTOOLS: This is a season rich for reflection and planning, and I've been so appreciative of the structure and inspiration provided within the pages Katie McDonald's b.nourished planner and the accompanying digital course, which provides support every step of the way. As a self-care strategist for high achievers, Katie has extensively field-tested what works and what doesn't work for goal-setting and inner change, and has distilled this wisdom into the pages of her quarterly planner. But don't take my word for it, order one for yourself and enjoy 15% off using the code FIRESTARTER now through January 31, 2021, with free shipping through the end of the year. 2021 is just around the corner. What better time to set intentions and manifest a brighter and healthier year ahead?
FSSNAPSHOTS: A few Instagram #fieldnotes photos:

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With the constraints of 2020, we have been experimenting with new ways to capture and share stories remotely. It was wonderful to partner with our longtime client Barnard College and The Barnard Annual Fund in this new context on a series of videos highlighting four current students' remote learning experiences, the silver linings of a challenging year, and importance of continuing to give back and support the college as it rises to the challenge of providing critical resources, meeting increased demand for financial aid, and maintaining the health and well-being of the community. Watch the series here.

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2020 Firestarter Production & Team

  • New team members: 2

  • Interviews "filmed" virtually: 17

  • Zoom meetings: Who is counting?

  • Revenue allocated for environmental causes (starting 10/1/20): 1%

Starting at Zero Film

  • Screening requests from organizations since August premiere of Starting at Zero: 106

  • Screenings of Starting at Zero in October & November: 14

  • Film views in October & November: 1,883

  • New screenings scheduled for December: 8


Thanks to all who have seen the film, and to those who have supported us during this fantastic and fulfilling journey.

Would your organization like to plan a virtual screening event? Pleasefill out this formand we'll be in touch to explore possibilities.

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We'd love any feedback and suggestions for this newsletter. What would you like more or less of? You can simply hit reply to this email, or send us a note on Twitter or Instagram @firestarterix.

Did you miss the last one? Here's the archive.

Thanks so much for joining us! Stay safe and well, Happy Holidays, and we look forward to keeping in touch.

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Willa Kammerer