In introducing the final speaker, DSC Deputy Director Donna Gambrell commended the symposium's many presenters. "We have shared many perspectives and seen the value of a variety of approaches to the problem of the unbanked," she said. "This is the first in a series of symposia focused on reaching new markets. The next symposium-tentatively scheduled for Spring 2004-will address immigrant populations. Also, a 'best-practices' booklet, based on the information provided by the panelists and attendees, will be issued in the first quarter of 2004."
Gambrell then presented John Bryant, founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Operation HOPE, Inc. Bryant commended Chairman Powell for his leadership in reaching out to the unbanked, noting that Powell deserved credit for "walking the walk" by going into the community and meeting people in need. Bryant then spoke of what he called "The Silver Rights Movement: That means the unbanked is a new and emerging market opportunity for you, the providers and regulators of financial services. I salute the heroes-and sheroes-in this room, because you are doing something," he said. "Moralizing and hand-wringing are not enough-you have to do something about it, and you are. It helps to be a little crazy in this business, because the 'crazy ones' who think they can change the world are usually the ones who do."
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