HOPE International CEO to Discuss “Entrepreneurship for Human Flourishing”

“Uncharity.” It’s a strikingly unpredictable manifesto for a nonprofit organization helping underserved communities around the globe. But for Peter Greer, president and CEO of HOPE International, it’s the answer to poverty alleviation.

On Wednesday, April 29 Gordon College will welcome Greer to speak on his vision that entrepreneurship and job creation—rather than charity handouts—are the most effective means of lifting people out of poverty. Under Greer’s leadership, HOPE, a Christian microfinance organization, provides small loans and savings services to entrepreneurs in 17 developing countries. HOPE partners with local churches in each area of operation to provide clients with ongoing discipleship and support.

Greer will speak at 10:25 a.m. in the A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel, followed by lunch with students in the Lion’s Den in Lane Student Center. At 4:30 p.m., he will participate in a panel discussion on “Entrepreneurship for Human Flourishing” in the Ken Olsen Science Center Auditorium (room 104). Fellow panelists include Dr. Judy Dean, economist and member of Gordon’s board of trustees; Dr. Carter Crockett, director of Gordon’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership; and Dr. Stephen Smith, professor of economics and business at Gordon.

The panel discussion is sponsored by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Executive Council, a group of five student leaders who, with the help of AEI, promote campus dialogue surrounding free enterprise and American leadership. Complimentary copies of Greer’s latest book, Entrepreneurship for Human Flourishing, published by AEI, will be available (while supplies last).