By Devin D Thorpe Your Mark On The World: Stories of service that show us how to give more with a purpose without givi [Paperback]

by Devin D. Thorpe

Your Mark On The World combines inspiring stories of ordinary people doing remarkable things to make the world a better place with practical advice to empower anyone to give more to a cause (charity, not-for-profit or social venture) without giving up a career or family.The inspiring stories life and death struggle through Pol Pot's killing fields that led her ultimately to create an orphanage in Phnom Penh.Rick's personal crusade to cure cystic fibrosis to ensure that his two afflicted grandchildren will attend his funeral and not the other way around.The eight-member Smith family's world service tour.David's decision to walk away from a successful career as an international executive to volunteer to care for victims of leprosy in rural India.These stories are combined with practical financial advice to empower readers to give more to a cause (charity, not-for-profit or social venture) without giving up your family or your career.

Genres: Nonfiction

Unknown Binding

First published July 1, 2012

About the author

Devin Thorpe thinks he is the luckiest person alive. After being “let go” from the best job he’d ever had—as the Chief Financial Officer of the multinational food and beverage company MonaVie—he and his wife ended up living in China for a year where he wrote Your Mark On The World and embarked on the career he’d always wanted and hadn’t dared dream.
Now, as an author and blogger for Forbes Devin writes about the things that inspire him, mostly stories of people who are making a positive difference in the world and how we can all be more like them. His current life isn’t much like his past. As an entrepreneur, Devin ran—at separate times—a boutique investment banking firm and a small mortgage company. He served as the Treasurer for the multinational vitamin manufacturer USANA Health Sciences years before becoming CFO for MonaVie.
Devin squeezed in two brief stints in government, including two years working for Jake Garn on the U.S. Senate Banking Committee Staff and another year working for an independent state agency called USTAR, where he helped foster technology entrepreneurship during Governor Jon Huntsman’s administration.
Devin is proud to be a Ute, having graduated from the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business, which recognized him as a Distinguished Alum in 2006. He also earned an MBA at Cornell University where he ran the student newspaper, Cornell Business.
Today, Devin channels the idealism of his youth, championing social good, with the loving support of his wife, Gail. Their son Dayton is a PhD candidate in Physics at UC Berkeley (and Devin rarely misses an opportunity to mention that).

Reviews

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is somewhat unusual in its presentation. It is not a book designed to make you feel guilty for not joining in every good cause in the world, and it is not a book that sets out to sell you on its plan for you to achieve all your financial dreams. It is a book that combines a strong argument for finding a cause you like (where you can make a difference in the lives of others), with some basic counsel on how to get your personal financial life in order so that you might maximize the amount of good you can do.

The chapters alternate between stories of real people who have accomplished some amazing things in serving and helping others, and easy to understand discussions of how to analyze and modify your financial situation for the better (which should empower you to go out and do more good yourself.) The book starts out with a personal story by the author that grabs your attention and makes you want to keep reading. The chapters that tell the stories of people who have found ways to really make a difference to the people they serve illustrate the variety of need in the world and the multiple ways that it is possible to make an impact on the lives of others. The financial advice chapters are basic enough to be understandable by those of us who didn't get our degrees in finance, but have enough depth to teach some important principles to enable people to take steps to improve their overall financial situation and take control of where their resources go.

If the purpose of the book is to convince and inspire people to find a cause and then go make their mark on the world, it certainly accomplishes that goal. It gives you the concrete examples that show how people can really do it, and the tools to enable anyone to make a plan and start doing it themselves.

[Ruth Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that appears to be short, but it can be life-changing if used appropriately. Have you ever wanted to get involved in changing the world for the better but did not know where to begin? This is the book for you! Devin Thorpe has organized this book in such a succinct fashion that you are sure to find the information for which you seek.

The author covers everything. He gives you real information about charities that really change people's lives all over the world. He gives you addresses--including web addresses and even e-mail addresses. He brings up personal stories--and some of those stories are hard to read, but they are incredibly uplifting.

One thing I had never considered was the issue of funding charity projects. He spends several chapters throughout discussing how to get the funds, how to budget, and even tax benefits of charitable giving. It is clear that this author knows what he is talking about, and I plan to keep this book as a reference. If you want to make a difference in this world, pick up this book today!

i was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

[Rae Ryans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book filled with inspiring stories as well as tips on how everyone can make their own mark on the world without worrying about debt. Speaking of debt, the book also offers valuable advice on how to overcome financial pitfalls as well as saving for the future. After all it can be difficult to give when you can barely make ends meet.


But it goes farther than money. Volunteerism is also a wonderful way to give back to the cause of your choosing, and the stories shared revolve around the experiences of individuals. Read as others have made small steps in their lives that have changed the lives of others greatly. You will leave not only wanting to help others, but immediately trying to find ways to leave your own mark on the world.


The stories and information given are great for all ages. It will make a great gift to teens, newlyweds, and even college students, but it is never too late to start saving for the future and giving your time and/or money to the cause(s) of your choice. The tools given, and if followed, will help to shape a better tomorrow as we work to get out of debt (and stay there!), and thus freeing up money to give to those in need (or to fund a volunteerism sabbatical).


As for the author of Your Mark on the World, the writing was easy to follow, and there were no confusing terms thrown around. This is why anyone can read and utilize the tools given. Every financial term was explained, and I even learned a lot about the different types of investments out there without feeling as if my head were about to explode. I hate math, and I rarely use the word hate, so the formulas provided as well as the charts were extremely helpful in helping me to figure out how much I need to save now to afford college for my three children. Overall I found the book helpful, and the stories were inspiring, some to the point of tears.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever thought there was someway you could serve in your community or beyond, this book will tell you just how to do it.

As we start to see the ways in which our lives are blessed by abundance, there are many ways we can give back. I have been seeing this trend in my own community. This is the first book I have come across that has been supportive and informational without preaching about obligation or making the reader feel guilty about not doing enough. As the author says, every little bit helps but if you plan you can make an even bigger impact on one cause that is close to your heart.

The conversational style of this book makes it very readable and offers wonderful advice on how to arrange your life to serve. I enjoyed how the author alternated between real life stories of families and individuals who made their influence in the world and sound advice on managing your affairs to make a life of service possible. The stories helped me to see the possibilities in my own life and inspired me to begin taking action. There was a time I tried to serve through my career but it didn't fit me personally. I like the idea of choosing to serve through my personal time and including my family in the mission. There are so many opportunities here and in communities all over. The suggestion to include your travel in your mission of service, if you like to travel, as a great way to see the world and help at the same time.

This is a wonderful book and fits well into the trend of giving. A quick read that will lift your spirit and make you feel like you can change the world.

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for Promotional Book Tours.

This book is about leaving your mark on the world, doing something for others. What would you like to be remembered for when you pass on? What inspires you, what cause drives you?
Most people say they would love to give back if they could. Some have valid reasons why they can't, and others just don't even know where to start.

This book is very unique in the way it's written and portrayed. This is not a book that preaches to give back and makes you feel bad when you can't. The author gives you tips and guides on how to make your dreams of helping a cause become a reality.

I think given the authors long history as a fiancial advisor helps with writing this book. The tips he gives on being able to serve others are really eye opening and shows that even if you can only give a dollars or what he calls "pizza money" it will help others.

I love how the author has the book set up. One chapter is a story of someone giving back to the world. The next chapter is him telling you how to be more fianically secure and able to give back if you really want to.

[Simone · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This is a truly unique book. It doesn’t preach about religion or anything like that. Basically, it encourages you to find an interest you’re passionate about. What would you like to be remembered for when you pass away? This is something I have struggled with for years, I have a strong desire to make my life matter in some way. I feel so fortunate to have gotten the chance to review this book, because I now know how to make that happen. We can all make a huge difference in this world as easily as giving up that second cup of coffee every day and donating that money to the charity you hold close to your heart. Are you ready to make your mark on the world? I know I am!

[Lisa Rayns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is actually about finding a passion in life and reminds us there is more to life than the day to day. It tells us how to make a real difference with our time, money, and our hearts. The author not only assures us that we make a difference, but he tells us how to choose our passions and focus them to make a maximum impact on our chosen cause. He shows us how to organize our lives to make great things happen. The author shares some amazing anecdotes of people who have helped and been helped, and shares his great experience and the fulfillment it gave him. It’s very informative and exceptionally inspirational.

[Devin Thorpe]

Writing this book was a genuine pleasure; I got the opportunity to meet some of the most extraordinary people you'd ever want to know.

Working on this project was an inspiring opportunity to learn more about what is possible; it is possible for us to do more, to give more and to become more by doing so.

[Kidekin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faith in Humanity, restored
Simply it's about sorting your finances to fund your dreams of making the difference. The book is for those who want to be able to make a meaningful contribution to make the world a better place. As much as one wants to give to charity there's a lot to put into consideration to safeguard your future and that of your progeny, the book delves into the nitty-gritty of investment, loans, mortgages and saving up.


Interwoven throughout the book are deeply encouraging and soul-stirring stories about people who have gone the extra mile to do something great and in the process made there mark on the world. Most have sacrificed their own pleasures (and money) in the most affluent parts of the world to live among the poorest and most neglected on the planet.


The book provides an excellent time to reflect one's role in spreading smiles in the world. Loved the book.

[Athena Nagel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Your Mark On The World is a book filled with emotional short stories about how specific individuals have been able to make a difference in the world in small and large ways. These people are living their lives in a way to truly make the lives of others – better – in some way. How did they find their passions? Generally, their lives led them there through their own circumstances and the determination to make the world a better place.

Some of the stories involve dedicating their full, entire lives to achieving their goal. These people have given in major ways. But the book is clear that anyone can give or make change, even if it is in small ways.
I teach my children to help others. But am I as consistent about it as I could be – probably not. After reading this book I intend to really put more effort into helping others and not just at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Life is fragile and if my family and I can make some lasting difference in even one life – it will all be worth it.

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from PromotionalBookTours – all opinions are my own.

[Ely · Rating 3 out of 5]

Your Mark on the World is a very informative financial read. The stories involved are very touching and heart-warming, reading how an individual or a group makes a difference in the world is very awe-spiring. This book deals greatly on how you can save and balance money and how to contribute to a cause effectively. Although the book is a great source of information on not-for-profit organizations, ideas, and money savings plan, I found myself irritated at how heavy the book stresses the importance of giving money away for a cause. Personally, I would like to hear more about volunteerism at zero cost and self-devotion to a charity of one's choice without spending a buck or two (though donation of a couple of bucks or two wouldn't hurt.)

I think this book is a best fit for ages 30 and up, specifically to someone who is financially stable to contribute money and efforts to a charity.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this free as part of the Firstreads giveaways. Overall, it was a look at how to reassess your finances currently and your goals for the future within the landscape of charitable contribution. Some of the suggestions are less feasible for younger and/or single readers, but a good reference to go back to for easy to understand ideas as life events occur. The short narratives of different people's various chosen organizations got a little tiring toward the end because they never felt really fleshed out, deeply meaningful to an unfamiliar reader, or connected.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterpiece. Devin Thorpe has written a one-of-a-kind book about service to causes. He skillfully interweaves true stories with practical and financial advice on giving. Two of my personal favorites were "Optimism from Despair" (Cystic Fibrosis) and "Rabbi with HEART" (Troubled Teens). This book is about ordinary people doing extraordinary feats. "Your Mark on the World" gets my highest level of recommendation.

[Eve · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free via a First Reads giveaway.

This book is very inspiring. The individual stories presented are extremely impressive, and make me want to do even more for the charities with which I am involved,

[Andrea]

If you want a book that is both inspiring and practical that helps you feel motivated as well as gives you tools to choose a cause and really make a difference, this book is a great jumping off point. It is realistic about ways to make changes that will really allow you to make a difference.

[Leanne Hunt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m one of those people who likes to give to worthy causes but have tended to give without a plan. This book points out the benefits of choosing a cause that resonates with your own passion, interests, experience and goals. It made me think deeply about why I give to certain organisations and prompted me to check out other organisations which align better with who I am. As a parent, one wants to model conscious giving to one’s children, and this book illustrates how many people have done this, either by involving their families in volunteering together or by sharing their learning with their relatives and friends. All in all, an inspiring read with some good guidelines on how to incorporate a habit of giving into one’s overall financial plan.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that was written with the LDS family in mind. However, anyone can learn from the stories and advice contained within its pages. Each chapter focuses on a way that you can work to improve your own life and circumstances, to help you to be better able to serve as a volunteer. Volunteer work and missions are a fundamental part of the Mormon faith, yet anyone can easily set aside time to do this.

As I was reading the advice, I had moments of "Duh," because I felt like I knew a lot of it. For example, sitting down to look at your finances to make a budget. That doesn't mean that I am applying these words of wisdom on a regular basis. Sometimes you need a smack in the face of "Duh" to remind you of what you already know. Those words get under your skin, because you know you're supposed to be doing these things. You can then be inspired to finally take the plunge and do what you know you should be doing.

All of the anecdotes are going to touch you in one way or another. Some are going to speak to you more than others. I was particularly moved by the story of the special needs children in China who have been left in orphanages. I work with young children and have a special place in my heart for those who are not "typically developing" for whatever reason. I cried through that chapter. Perhaps you will find a particular story that speaks to you above all others. That may be indicative of your calling for your role in leaving your mark on the world.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Fr. Andrew · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unless/until I make a better income, I am not in the audience for this book. I'm torn between feeling encouraged to do my best to make the world in some way, and discouraged that the writer's thesis seems based on the notion that you (I) don't really matter unless you can give money and time to a cause. This isn't a very deep well of encouragement from which to start. For those in a different, special group of middle-class-to-wealthy individuals, I would recommend this book for its advice. Some of the financial tips/advice would be good to take in when you are young and starting on your life of employment. For me, though, at 45 and living paycheck-to-paycheck (with two jobs), I see very little of use here.

Your mileage may vary, to be sure.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book through a goodreads giveaway. The book has a simple straightforward message: with a commitment of time and money everyone can do good charitable work that makes a real difference. The author gives you the steps to take to make it financially possible to make a significant contribution to making the world a better place. He doesnt try to convince you to volunteer or make donations. Instead the author gives examples of those who've done good, who are making their mark, and lays out a plan for how you can put yourself in the financial position to do the same.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pretty good book--not exactly well-written, but good. It will have a positive effect on most readers. I liked the way the author alternates chapters containing profiles of volunteers with chapters of financial advice. The problem is that the financial advice isn't really overly helpful. This format is a good idea, but maybe it would have been better to just focus on the feel-good stories.

[Jeanne (love2cook) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received this book free from good reads. First read.

I found the stories inspirational. Remarkable, ordinary people making the world a better place. A lot of practical advice to empower us to support charities, or create charities, social ventures, or not-for-profit adventures. I especially, found it enlightening that one did not have to give up their family or career to do good works.

[Paddy O'callaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

le, This good highlight the fact that individualc can make a a difference, and that evil can be overcome when good people "take arms against a sea of trouble and by opposing end it". It is book eloquently written and unpretentious; to pull this off with such brilliance is a rare talent indeed. Thank you Mr Thorpe.

[Megan Wolfenden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wonderful. Devin does a wonderful job showing you how you can organize your finances and your time to really make a difference. The case studies are lovely and everyone in there is making a difference. I suggest giving this book to friends and family so they can se how they can make their own difference in the world. Thanks Devin.

[Jon Thomason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. I don't read a lot in the genre...I'm more of an escapist reader, but Devin's excellent book got me thinking *deeply* about a more systematic way to give back. The writing is clear and the stories inspiring. Kudos!

[Pearl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book with a clear purpose ..... helping everyone and anyone understand how they can leave their mark on the world. I was pleasantly surprised with the economics included. For me, that made it even better because I could relate to the outcomes more easily.

[Csimplot Simplot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!!!

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is inspiring what some people accomplish in their lives and how they pay it forward.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that motivates to give more of your time/money and teaches great personal finance habits. I learned that I am doing many things right. I just need to find a cause that I am passionate about.

[Lily]

Quite inspirational.