Ever wondered how a young man's journey across the globe sparked a profound revelation about the power of education and led to the creation of the groundbreaking organization, Pencils of Promise? How did a simple pencil given to a child in India ignite a movement that has built over 200 schools around the world? Dive into this compelling narrative and discover how a passion for change, coupled with resilience and dedication, can truly make a difference.

The Promise of a Pencil: How an Ordinary Person Can Create Extraordinary Change

Growing up, dinner at Adam Braun's family's table was a lively affair. His father, known for his intense coaching style, often stirred debates. He believed in pushing them hard, instilling mental toughness and a solid work ethic. His mantra, "Brauns are different," encouraged them to stand out, hold themselves to higher standards, and take the path less traveled. 

The Braun family's journey began with Adam's grandparents, Holocaust survivors who fled Hungary. Their resilience shaped his father's views on nonconformity and excellence. He and Adam's mother, both dental professionals, settled in Greenwich, Connecticut, drawn by its education and diversity. 

In high school, Adam played basketball and met Sam and Cornelio, two boys from Mozambique seeking education in the U.S. Moved by their story, Adam's family took them in as legal guardians, teaching them the value of integrity and the courage to be different.

At Brown University, Adam's dreams of a lucrative Wall Street career shifted after watching the film Baraka. The movie's depiction of global cultures sparked a desire in Adam to explore the world and seek deeper meaning beyond material wealth. This led him to Semester at Sea, where a harrowing storm at sea reaffirmed his belief that life had a purpose.

While traveling, Adam decided to ask children, "If you could have anything, what would it be?" Their answers—simple yet profound—taught him the power of small gestures. In India, a boy's wish for a pencil changed Adam's perspective on how even minor acts can unlock potential.

These experiences taught Adam that true success lies in personal fulfillment, helping others, and never settling for normalcy. Why be normal, indeed?

How Did a Holocaust Survivor's Legacy Inspire a Journey from Wall Street to Global Exploration?

After an enlightening journey around the world, Adam found himself deeply affected by the stark contrasts between life in developing countries and back home in America. His travels took him from India to Kenya, then South Africa, and Brazil, where Adam immersed himself in local cultures by befriending residents, gaining invaluable insights into rural life. This exposure sparked a burning passion within him to help others.

Upon returning to the U.S., Adam was struck by the prevalence of obesity and excess, a jarring juxtaposition to the hunger and poverty he'd witnessed. This realization propelled him into action. He began by organizing fundraising events and successfully raised money for the Cambodian Children’s Fund, an organization led by Scott Neeson, who left a lucrative Hollywood career to support impoverished children in Cambodia.

Despite securing a high-paying job at Bain & Company, Adam felt unfulfilled. He yearned for more meaningful work that aligned with his newfound purpose. Adam's turning point came during a conversation with a friend who emphasized the importance of taking risks while young. This, coupled with a powerful experience at a New York Philharmonic concert, led to the epiphany that would change his life: Pencils of Promise.

Inspired and determined, Adam decided to launch Pencils of Promise, a nonprofit aimed at building schools in developing nations. He envisioned using small donations to make a big impact, starting with his birthday fundraiser. With his parents' cautious support, Adam began laying the groundwork for the organization, driven by the belief that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.

This journey taught Adam the importance of doing small things that make others feel valued, seeking meaningful experiences over material wealth, and embracing transformative moments. It led him to a path of purpose, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of others.

From Hollywood to Humanity: Scott Neeson's Inspiring Journey with Cambodian Children's Fund

Starting Pencils of Promise felt more real with every conversation for Adam. One October day, he filed a DBA form, making it official, and opened a bank account with just $25—a karmic sign as it was his 25th birthday month. Adam bought domains, created an email, and reached out to friends in the legal industry for help with nonprofit paperwork. A young lawyer helped him file for 501(c)(3) status, allowing them to start fundraising immediately.

Their first fundraiser was a Halloween birthday party in TriBeCa. Despite doubts from mentors about raising money in a bad economy, 400 people attended, and they raised $8,000, surpassing expectations. This event spurred more interest in PoP, and a small leadership team formed, including friends with various professional skills. They planned another fundraiser, a holiday masquerade, and Adam reached out to contacts in Laos, determined to build their first school there.

Despite initial discouragement from a local nonprofit leader, Adam persisted. His networking efforts paid off when he connected with Dori from Give Children A Choice, who had built many schools in Laos. They bonded over shared passions and he offered guidance. Adam visited Laos, met with education officials, and found Pha Theung, the perfect village for their first school. Seeing the children's eagerness for education solidified his resolve.

Back in New York, they hosted a successful masquerade, raising over $20,000. By year's end, they had $35,000 in donations. PoP felt like a movement, thanks to the collective effort of friends and supporters who believed in the impossible.

With Bain's externship policy change, Adam had nine months to work on PoP. After near-career derailment due to a work mistake, he proved himself and secured the externship. He left for Laos, signed the MOU for their first school, and witnessed the community's dedication during the groundbreaking ceremony.

As the school construction progressed, Adam traveled to learn from other NGOs. In Bali, he was inspired by a local-led organization and vowed to find a local coordinator for PoP. Despite falling ill, he pushed through to meet his dad in Nepal for a trek, which deepened his understanding of education programs. Back in Laos, he hired Lanoy, a dedicated local woman, to coordinate their builds.

Visiting Pha Theung again, Adam saw the nearly completed school and the children's excitement. Handing out pens and pencils, he felt the impact of their work. As he left, he saw a once-timid girl, Can-tong, skipping away with purpose, embodying the change they aimed to bring.

Can You Believe How One Man's 25th Birthday Sparked the Creation of 'Pencils of Promise'?

After four months in Southeast Asia, Adam returned home for his mother's eightieth birthday in New York City. The night before the celebration, he shared with her the impact of his work in Laos through Pencils of Promise (PoP)—a school dedicated to her. She was moved to tears, realizing that her legacy would continue through the education of children.

PoP's growth was fueled not only by small contributions but also by a strong volunteer force. Mimi led a successful white party fundraiser, demonstrating the power of community engagement. Despite skepticism from Adam's mentor, George Stanton, about securing major donors, Adam remained committed to grassroots support.

The team leveraged social media and cause marketing, betting on their rise to build a strong brand. Brad Haugen, a marketing expert, and Nick Onken, a photographer, joined their team, enhancing their branding efforts.

Inspired by their success, Adam and his friends embarked on a cross-country RV tour to spread PoP's message. At Oklahoma State University, only one student, Chelsea Canada, attended Adam's speech. Undeterred, he gave it his all, and Chelsea's enthusiasm sparked the creation of PoP clubs and further outreach.

Back in New York, Adam faced a tough decision: continue at Bain or focus solely on PoP. A chance encounter with street art and a generous offer of office space solidified his choice. He resigned from Bain to pursue PoP full-time, driven by the belief that their work could create lasting change.

Through these experiences, Adam learned that happiness comes from celebrating others and that focusing on one person in every room can ignite a movement. His journey with PoP taught him that even seemingly impossible tasks can be achieved with passion, dedication, and the support of a committed community.

From Bain to Pencils of Promise: A Journey of Passion and Impact

Back in those days, Adam's office space wasn’t ready, so he worked from his tiny East Village apartment. Whenever someone suggested meeting at an office, he’d propose a nearby café instead. He eliminated distractions, putting up a huge whiteboard to jot down ideas. He was deeply dedicated to Pencils of Promise (PoP), working around the clock, always connected via his phone or computer.

On an international flight, Adam sat next to founders of the Summit Series, who invited him to an exclusive event in Washington, DC. Despite the hefty $3,600 price tag, Adam negotiated a significant nonprofit discount with a promise of key introductions. He even took the bus to save money.

They didn’t have funds for a second employee, so Adam recruited volunteer interns. One standout candidate, Jocelyn Kmet, joined them after a serendipitous sign—a Wi-Fi password matching her name. She became instrumental in assembling their intern team.

Attending the Summit Series event, Adam networked with leading young entrepreneurs and met inspiring figures like the founders of Invisible Children. PoP had a growing reputation, and Adam secured his first full-school commitment through a brief conversation with his roommate, Adam Witty.

These experiences taught Adam the importance of stepping away from routines to make meaningful connections. Just like muscles need recovery to grow, he instituted a personal policy of going off email from Friday night until Sunday morning to rejuvenate.

Later, Adam faced a critical decision when a wealthy businessman, John Nolan, offered him a lucrative opportunity to cofound an e-commerce auction business. Despite the attractive perks, he ultimately chose to stay true to PoP, guided by his values rather than immediate necessities.

Building PoP required assembling a passionate team. Adam recruited friends and trusted individuals, transforming their volunteer army into a dedicated team. Their first independent office embodied their idealistic and humble culture, fostering a dynamic environment.

Adam's brother, Scott, was also on a new path, managing artists like Justin Bieber. Justin became deeply involved with PoP, helping raise funds and advocating for their cause. During a family vacation, they brainstormed the Schools4All campaign, encouraging students to fundraise for PoP with a chance to win a school visit from Justin.

This journey underscored the power of authentic connections and staying true to one’s mission. With a trusted team and genuine support, PoP was ready to share its story with the world.

How Did Dedication and Justin Bieber's Support Propel Pencils of Promise to Global Recognition?

Pencils of Promise (PoP) was gaining traction, thanks to the Chase Community Giving Contest, Summit Series connections, and Justin Bieber’s social media support. Despite this, founder Adam Braun avoided early media exposure, believing in establishing a solid foundation first. Inspired by bands that built loyal fan bases before hitting mainstream success, Braun focused on creating lasting impact rather than early fame.

Braun set three criteria before seeking press: a compelling story, an excellent website, and a capable team. By late 2010, PoP had achieved these. A Huffington Post article titled “The New Nonprofit: Pencils of Promise” became a turning point, leading to widespread recognition, partnerships with big brands, and media interest.

Braun also prioritized public speaking, with an impactful speech at the Feast on Good conference, despite a minor wardrobe malfunction, which served as a humbling reminder. The story of Noah and Appy being attacked in Guatemala highlighted the need for better safety policies and compassionate leadership, leading to organizational improvements.

To foster a positive culture, Braun introduced practices like monthly meditation and “daily jukebox” sessions. Handwritten thank-you notes became a staple, exemplified by a heartfelt letter to an early donor, Larry Petretti, which led to significant support, including a new office build-out.

Adopting the term “for-purpose” instead of “nonprofit,” Braun shifted perceptions, aiming to blend business acumen with social impact. This rebranding emphasized accessibility, transparency, and partnerships, leading to increased donations and corporate support.

By redefining their approach, PoP set ambitious goals, like building 100 schools, and established a culture of accountability and impact. This transformation exemplified how changing the narrative and focusing on purpose could drive substantial growth and success.

Justin Bieber and Adam Braun Propel Pencils of Promise to New Heights

Adam wasn't always comfortable with public speaking, but with practice, it became second nature. An invitation to return as a guest lecturer with Semester at Sea was a chance Adam couldn't pass up. He joined the voyage in Morocco, relishing the opportunity to speak from the heart to eager college students. His talks centered on practical travel advice, like going with the flow and staying safe, which resonated well with the students.

Adam used a technique called "one person, one thought," making direct eye contact with individual students, which deepened the connection and elevated the room's energy. Reflecting on his experiences, he urged them to embrace their freedom and defy the notion they were too young to change the world. Candidly speaking, even cursing for the first time during a speech, Adam felt a powerful bond with the audience.

Following this inspiring week, Adam traveled to Ghana to explore it as a potential location for Pencils of Promise (PoP)'s expansion. The visit revealed a community eager for education, and Adam was particularly moved by a local boy named Justice, whose passion for education cemented his resolve to expand PoP's reach to Ghana.

Back in New York, their first gala was a milestone. With tickets at $500 and tables up to $50,000, they raised over $1 million, setting the stage for their expansion into Ghana. This event marked a turning point, affirming their mission and the power of clear, defined goals.

On a personal note, Adam found himself yearning for a deeper connection. Friends joked he was looking for a "unicorn" – a nearly mythical perfect partner. Then, a chance mention of a South African named Tehillah with green eyes changed everything. They met, and Adam was instantly smitten. She changed his perspective, helping him become a better listener and enriching his life beyond his work with PoP.

Professionally, connecting with influential figures like Ray Chambers propelled PoP forward. His advice and network were invaluable, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with those who inspire and elevate you. Ray's introduction to global leaders and his wisdom on achieving bliss through service were transformative.

Overcoming his fear of asking for donations was crucial. Initially reluctant, Adam realized the importance of vulnerability and asking for help. This shift led to a significant commitment from Paul Foster, who not only supported PoP financially but also provided invaluable feedback and mentorship.

These experiences underscored the value of clear goals, the power of genuine connections, and the importance of embracing vulnerability. Surrounding yourself with those who make you better and overcoming personal fears can lead to extraordinary achievements, both personally and professionally.

Can Semester at Sea and Pencils of Promise Transform Your Life Like They Did for Adam?

Since Pencils of Promise (PoP) began, Adam communicated with supporters through digital content, and as they grew, they needed someone dedicated to managing their social media. 

Enter Carlo, a nervous 22-year-old with braces, who impressed them with his engaging Twitter feed. Asked to write a heartfelt letter about his desire for the role, Carlo's passion for their mission shone through, and he joined as an administrative assistant. Carlo quickly learned to manage their social media and became their lead designer, doubling their digital following and freeing Adam to focus on securing major donors.

One day, Carlo excitedly told Adam about Kennedy Donnelly, a 17-year-old who tweeted about biking across America to raise money for PoP. Inspired by her determination despite doubts from others, they launched the "Impossible Ones" campaign to celebrate those taking on personal challenges to support their mission. Stories like Kennedy's and others, such as Joel Runyon's ultramarathon fundraising, galvanized their community and significantly increased their impact.

Their efforts to improve education showed positive results, with significant gains in literacy and math. However, they realized the need to go beyond just building schools to include teacher training and student scholarships. Listening to their field staff's recommendations, they expanded their programs, aiming to create comprehensive support systems for communities.

As they approached their 100th school, Adam visited Ghana and experienced the profound impact of their work firsthand. The opening ceremony of the school in Goviefe Todzi was a joyous celebration, reminding Adam of the importance of their mission. They set ambitious new goals, aiming to build 500 schools, train 1,000 teachers, and provide 10,000 scholarships by 2015, accelerating their growth and deepening their impact.

Throughout this journey, the stories of individuals like Carlo, Kennedy, and countless others have become the echoes of their initial vision, amplifying their message and driving their mission forward. PoP's success now lies in the hands of their dedicated supporters, who share their belief in the transformative power of education.

As of now, PoP has built over 200 schools and continues to innovate in education. Their comprehensive approach has garnered recognition from the World Economic Forum, the Clinton Global Initiative, and the United Nations. They invite everyone to support their work, whether by providing scholarships, training teachers, or building new schools.

Reflecting on their journey, Adam realizes that true purpose is found when you stop thinking about how you exist in the world and start figuring out why you are here. For anyone with a dream, no matter how big or small, take small steps forward each day. Change your conversations to focus on the life you aspire to create, and you'll attract similar energy from others. The world has many problems, and you are capable of helping tackle them. Your time is now. 

Live a life that reflects the themes of the stories you want to tell, and if you're not satisfied with your path, it's time to rewrite your future. Your life should be a story you are excited to tell, filled with purpose, joy, and the strength of imagination.

From Social Media Rookie to Digital Dynamo: Carlo's Journey with Pencils of Promise

Growing up in a family with strong values, Adam learned the significance of standing out and taking the path less traveled. Embracing nonconformity and striving for excellence became deeply ingrained in him. Witnessing resilience and integrity through his family's history, Adam understood the power of helping others and seeking fulfillment beyond material wealth.

His transformative journey around the world led Adam to recognize the stark contrasts in living conditions and the importance of education in breaking cycles of poverty. This realization sparked a passion for creating meaningful change, prompting him to start Pencils of Promise (PoP), a nonprofit dedicated to building schools in developing countries. The aim was to leverage small contributions for substantial impact, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and grassroots support.

Throughout this journey, Adam discovered that true happiness comes from celebrating others and pursuing one's passions. Building PoP taught him the value of authentic connections, dedication, and the strength found in embracing vulnerability. Surrounding himself with inspiring individuals and overcoming personal fears proved essential in achieving extraordinary results.

As PoP grew, it became evident that a comprehensive approach to education, including teacher training and student scholarships, was necessary to create lasting impact. Setting ambitious goals and fostering a positive culture within the organization highlighted the power of clear intentions and the transformative potential of education.

Reflecting on these experiences, Adam realized that living with purpose and embracing the stories he wants to tell are vital to a fulfilling life. For anyone with a dream, taking small steps forward and focusing on creating the life you aspire to can lead to significant change. Your time is now to rewrite your future and live a life of purpose, joy, and imagination.

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The Promise of a Pencil: How an Ordinary Person Can Create Extraordinary Change

Adam Braun

9 Key ideas

25 MINS

4.7 (808)

Ever wondered how a young man's journey across the globe sparked a profound revelation about the power of education and led to the creation of the groundbreaking organization, Pencils of Promise?

How did a simple pencil given to a child in India ignite a movement that has built over 200 schools around the world?

Dive into this compelling narrative and discover how a passion for change, coupled with resilience and dedication, can truly make a difference.

Key Ideas

#1