" I created DonorsChoose by putting pencil to paper – literally – and sketching out each screen of the web site and how it would work. Then I paid a programmer from Poland $1,500 to turn my sketches and common-sense rules into a functioning website. "
- Charles Best

In the given quote, Charles Best describes the humble beginnings of DonorsChoose, a platform that connects teachers with donors who fund classroom projects. He outlines how he manually crafted each page and functionality of the website on paper before hiring a programmer to bring his ideas to life for just $1,500.

The deeper meaning behind this statement lies in the ingenuity and resourcefulness needed to create something significant from scratch. It highlights the importance of clear vision and understanding of one's goals, even when resources are limited. Best’s approach also underscores the value of seeking out affordable talent and collaboration across borders to achieve ambitious objectives efficiently. This anecdote illustrates how a simple yet well-thought-out idea can grow into a powerful tool for social impact.

Charles Best is the founder of DonorsChoose, an innovative non-profit organization that allows public school teachers to create project proposals and seek funding directly from individuals or organizations through its user-friendly platform. Founded in 2000 while Best was teaching at a New York City public high school, DonorsChoose has since facilitated millions of dollars worth of educational resources for students across the United States.