Philanthropist Jesse Willms Publicly Pledges Social Responsibility

Noted online marketing expert Jesse Willms says that companies need to do more than just create profits. He wants them to be socially responsible and find ways to support charities that help make the world a better place.

Noted online marketing expert Jesse Willms says that companies need not only create profits, but also find ways to support charities that help make the world a better place. "We were not put on this earth simply to make money," Willms said. "We were sent here to help our fellow man and make sure that each and every human being has a chance to live a good life."

Jesse David Willms is a leading Internet entrepreneur from Canada, who began his career online when he was 16; by the time he was 22 had launched several Internet businesses.

This summer, he was inspired by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett to start giving back to the community . Since then he has donated tens of thousands of dollars to a variety of charities. "I realized that we have an obligation to spread the wealth," Willms said. "Supporting worthy charities makes us better people, is socially responsible , provides positive publicity for our companies and helps real people facing real poverty. Beyond that, it just feels good to know you are making a difference."

Jesse Willms noted that many entrepreneurs would end up with more money than they could possibly spend on themselves in their lifetime. By giving money to charity now, they can ensure that their wealth helps make the world a better place. Beyond that, Willms said, many people don't realize just how persistent a problem global poverty has become. "Poverty is spreading around the world and it needs to be stopped," Willms said. "It destroys potential markets, devastates communities and if left unchecked, it will continue to effect more and more people. The time to put an end to poverty is now - and we have the means and resources to get the job done."

Willms noted that in addition to being the right thing to do, there are significant financial advantages to giving money to charity - as well as public relations advantages. "The way the public perceives your brand has a direct effect on your net profits," Willms said. "Giving to worthy charities not only helps people, but creates positive brand awareness that can actually help increase sales at a greater rate than traditional advertising."

He stressed, however, that tax and publicity reasons were not why he has decided to become a philanthropist rather than an entrepreneur. "I want to be a good person and do the right thing," Willms said. "Giving to charities has given new meaning to my life. I encourage other entrepreneurs and companies to do the same."