The discovery of the third sector in the USA

Finally, I’ve made it. I’m in the United States of America, the masters of the world. I feel like Alexis de Tocqueville in his adventurous journey to the new continent at the beginning of 19th century to discover the land of democracy. In my case, I’m here to discover the third sector – the 21st century form of democracy – and bridge it to Europe. The third sector will build a new trans-Atlantic cooperation!

Anyway, let’s stop here. I must confess that my adventure, like most, has started for a more simple and selfish reason: American friends got married and invited me to the wedding. Naturally, the ceremony was celebrated in a palace built by a Vanderbilt – you must know the family – in the green and productive country in Vermont. The parents of Molly, the bride, turned out to be founders of one of the first social enteprises in the country: Shelburne Farm. For the details read the the blog of my fellow Alberto. He’s into details and long descriptions!

Anyway, I took the opportunity to turn this into a study visit – paid by my organisation – to make contacts in the rulers’ land and identify partners for my projects. I love hanging out with Americans. Venus needs Mars, Robert Kagan would say.

I must confess that I’ve been in the country already for a week and spent the weekend in Shelburne Farm. The coming three weeks will be full of meetings and surprises. The cup of tea for an international networker. I will be mainly in NYC and DC with quick stops in Boston, Philadelphia and Baltimore. I will meet leaders and top institutions in the country: umbrella bodies, research centres, government agencies, grant makers, think-tanks, and many others.

Read my blog and you will discover whatever you haven’t ever dared to ask about the sector in the USA. If you are brave enough tell me what you would like to know and I will reply.

So, don’t waste more time and let’s start.