" I’ve met with titans of Silicon Valley because they’re investing in our national expansion. I’ve had lunch with Claire Danes because she sees DonorsChoose.org as the best way to help students in public schools. I would never, ever rub shoulders with such people if I had followed the typical career path in investment banking or whatever. "
- Charles Best

In this statement, Charles Best reflects on his career choices by highlighting how his work with DonorsChoose.org has led him to interact with influential figures from diverse backgrounds such as Silicon Valley entrepreneurs and Hollywood celebrities. He emphasizes that these encounters would not have been possible if he had followed a conventional path in investment banking or other traditional careers.

The deeper meaning of Best's words reveals the power and impact of choosing a career driven by passion and social purpose rather than just financial gain or prestige. By pursuing his vision to help students through DonorsChoose.org, Best has created connections that extend beyond typical professional boundaries, illustrating how one can build meaningful relationships in unconventional ways when their work aligns with a broader mission. This approach not only enriches the individual's life but also amplifies the reach and effectiveness of their social impact initiatives.

Charles Best is the founder of DonorsChoose.org, an innovative platform that connects donors directly to teachers who need funding for educational projects in public schools. Since its inception, the organization has facilitated millions of dollars in support for various classroom needs across the United States, significantly impacting the lives of countless students and educators.