This Friday, October 1st, at Any Mountain in Corte Madera (71 Tamal Vista Blvd.), Gary Erickson, the founder and CEO of Clif Bar and Luna Bar will talk about his autobiography, Raising the Bar: Integrity and Passion in Life and Business: The Story of Clif Bar, Inc..

Clif Bar is one of the nation's leading makers of all-natural energy and nutrition foods. Erickson's company has won numerous awards for its treatment of employees, commitment to the environment and support for important causes such as the fight against breast cancer.

Social Entrepreneur, Gary Erickson

A former baker, founder Gary Erickson was on a bike ride back in 1990 when the light went on to create a energy product that tasted good and was good for you.

He named his product line after his father, who taught him to love the outdoors.

Gary's bike rides over the Himalayas and his job as a wilderness program guide leading trips through the Cascades inspired him to create a business that serves its customers well, and that gives back to its employees, its community and the environment.

Four years ago, Erickson turned down a $120 million opportunity to sell his thriving business.

Instead he followed his heart, and he and his wife became the sole shareholders in the company he created.

The rest is not only history, it's a lesson in teaching entrepreneurs how to raise the bar in corporate giving.

Why did he pass up the financial opportunity of a lifetime? Especially since he is working harder than ever to serve over 35 million customers??

On Saturday, Erickson will share his unusual and inspirational story about following your passion, the freedom to create, sustaining a business, and taking the path of integrity by living responsibly in one's community and on the earth.

Adding flavor to Clif Bars' Crunchy Peanut Butter, Carrot Cake and Luna Bars' Lemon Zest, to name just three, are four endorsers of Erickson's book: His publisher, Jossey-Bass, who went to press in August, as well as: Mikhail Gorbachev, Julia Butterfly Hill, and Ben Cohen (the Ben in Ben & Jerry's).

Here's to healthy, adventuresome, soulful and road less traveled living!

~ Jennifer King