Your name doesn't have to be Gates to make a difference in the world

Your name doesn't have to be Gates to make a difference in the world: "Your name doesn't have to be Gates to make a difference in the world

By JANE C. KUECHLE
GUEST COLUMNIST

At age 16, Raj Majumder has already helped raise $15,000 for children and their families to participate in preschool and after-school recreation programs.

Though Majumder is just starting his college career, he has much in common with Ida Cole, a former Microsoft vice president.

Without Cole, many of the region's arts venues -- from the Intiman and Paramount theaters to the Gage Academy of Art -- likely would not exist as they do today.

Both Cole and Majumder are individually making a significant difference in their communities by following their passion for a particular cause and using that passion to ignite change. They demonstrate the amazing power an individual can have in improving the world.

This year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals-Washington is honoring the power of individuals like Majumder and Cole through National Philanthropy Day on Thursday."