FROM MADISON AVENUE
TO RIKERS ISLAND
THE MAKING OF A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR
“A sound heard over 65 years ago that I will never forget. A cell door closing behind me as I was being locked up for drunk driving and hitting a police car in Johnstown, PA. I am reminded of a famous saying, “There but for the grace of God, go l.”
Had I been of color in NYC I would have been sent to the Rikers Island jail, which is where I was sent by the Principal for a Day program in New York City in 2002. I had asked for the toughest school in New York, and I had gotten my wish.
From the minute I entered the Rikers Island jail, at age 68, I was about to embark on an entirely new phase of my life. I would be making a difference in over 10,000 young mens' lives, and in the process created a whole new life for myself.”
Events
Social Entrepreneurship
Resources
What People are Saying About From Madison Avenue to Rikers Island:
“Mark Goldsmith shows that there is life after “been there done that” in the business world. A successful executive, he took inspiration from a visit to Rikers Island, NYC’s notorious jail, to start GOSO, a non-profit focused on reducing recidivism. His story and success serve as a blueprint for others of the same ilk, people who’ve made it and now want to give back - and feel fulfilled too. Kudos to MG for showing the way.”
— Andrew Serwer, Editor in Chief, Yahoo Finance
“Mark Goldsmith could have easily rested on the laurels of a highly successful business career. Instead he changed the world for thousands of young men on Rikers Island by offering them insights on how to break the depressing cycle of incarceration. This is an inspiring example of finding purpose and meaning for those on the far side of retirement.”
— Rick Smith, President and CEO, The Pinkerton Foundation
“You should be very proud, my friend. You have written a meaningful account that is bound to encourage other people to jump in and pursue their own social and humanitarian undertakings. I was struck by the clarity of your voice in the writing - honest, empathetic and forceful with purpose; all of which have made you the powerful agent of change you are. Thank you for all you have done. Now, let's find a night sky and break out the cigars and the vodka.”
- Andy Konigsberg Former GOSO Board Member
“Mark Goldsmith’s book is an inspiration for anyone dreaming about redirecting their talents and entrepreneurial energies toward opening the doos for others. He offers his personal journey from lack of direction as a young man to a successful businessman as a guide on how to get it done. Anyone retiring or seeking a new course can benefit form Mark’s example. Truly a life well lived.”
— Edna Beaudette, Managing Director, NCH Capital, Inc. (Retired)
“IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GUYS.”