Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

Interested in starting your own journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Henry Goodelman, Founder of ReJews Recycling & Solar, located in Brooklyn, NY, USA.

What's your organization, and who are your members?

ReJews is a 501c3 non-profit organization that promotes sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Focused on building more informed communities across the country and around the world, ReJews primarily helps educate homeowners about renewable energy and government-funded environmental infrastructure programs.

Tell us about yourself

I'm a college administrator by trade and have an M.Ed. in higher education management. My transition into the world of renewable energy has been fueled by my background in developing improved student services and campus resources. I view my past experience supporting institutional success as directly tied to my now training young professionals as new hires and connecting with families as customers.

In 2012, I took a job in Israel to oversee the processes of gaining organizational recognition from schools for a community group. The formation of ReJews was a result of the growth and progression of a student-initiated recycling program that I started during that time. Ever since then, my unwavering focus on connecting people with meaningful causes has been my daily motivation. It drives me to pursue my goals and support others in achieving theirs.

What's your biggest accomplishment as an organization?

My biggest accomplishment as the founder of ReJews has been having the organization listed on the UN Sustainable Development Goals platform and garnering support from prominent corporations and foundations such as Google, GoDaddy, Microsoft, the UJA, and the Schusterman Family Foundation. This recognition has been a testament to the impact and value that sustainability and social entrepreneurship carry. I am a big believer of the phrase "teamwork makes the dream work," and I am grateful for the involvement of so many others who share this vision with me.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being an organization?

Balancing long-term planning and immediate operational needs is the most challenging aspect of running an organization. Simultaneously building a path for continued growth on one hand while coordinating day-to-day outreach efforts on the other can be a demanding task. Learning to adjust constantly helps keep tabs on changing priorities, whether it be an immediate customer service request or a grant application deadline.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow an organization today?

Offer a unique experience, break down your plan, and build productive habits. Ensure your progress is visible and your planning goals are clear while providing a service that helps connect communities. The best tip of all is to make a habit of taking time to reflect and gain focus through prayer and meditation.

Where can people find you and your group?

Website: https://rejews.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HenryMG
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/henrymg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HenryGoodelman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrymg/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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