The 'Start Something that Matters' Story Contest

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Blake Mycoskie, founder and "chief shoe-giver" at TOMS, the popular shoe and eyewear company, and author of New York Times' best seller "Start Something That Matters," will speak November 15 at 8 p.m. in the University at Buffalo's Alumni Arena, North Campus, as part of the 2012 UB Distinguished Speakers Series.

In connection with his appearance the "Start Something That Matters" Story Contest invites members of the Western New York community to share stories of how they, like Mycoskie himself, successfully started something that has had a positive impact on the lives of others.

Contest sponsors are UB, Tony Walker & Co. (which sells thousands of TOMS' shoes every year), WGRZ-TV, and Kiss 98.5 and its morning host Janet Snyder.

To enter the contest or get more information, visit Facebook UBDSS and click the "Story Contest" tile. Entries are being accepted through November 7 and winners will be announced November 9.

The contest's grand prize winner will receive two VIP tickets for the Mycoskie lecture, two passes to a private university reception for Mycoskie, a photo opportunity with him, a pair of TOMS' shoes, TOMS' eyewear and a $200 makeover from Tony Walker, complete with a fashion consultation and hair cut from Chez Ann in the Walker Center.

Second and third place prizes will also be awarded.

"Start Something That Matters," the UB Reads selection for 2012, Mycoskie's story of social entrepreneurship, business success and the One for One Program, that insures that for every pair of TOMS' shoes or eyeglasses sold, TOMS will distribute a pair to children in need somewhere in the world.

So far, more than a million pairs of shoes and eyeglasses have been distributed.

Mycoskie is passionate about motivating everyone -- especially young people -- to help remake capitalism and promote socially-conscious businesses and consumers. To this end, he encourages members of the public to include giving in everything they do and to start something that matters, as he did with his for-profit business that is sustainable and helps millions of those in need while not relying on donations.

The UB Distinguished Speakers Series sponsors are the UB Division of Student Affairs and the UB Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Tickets are available through TicketMaster and the UB Alumni Arena ticket office.

For more information on the speaker or tickets, please visit: Distinguished Speaker Series.