“To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there.” - Kofi Annan

I am too busy, you say.  I am just a speck in the world.  We all have something of value to share – be it dollars, kind words, encouragement, or companionship.  Why not join a collective sharing of kindness?  Below is my humble offering of ways you can help make the world a more gentle, compassionate and connected place.  

DONATE

 International Rescue Committee - IRC serves refugees and communities victimized by oppression or violent conflict worldwide.  Founded in 1933, the IRC is committed to freedom, human dignity, and self-reliance. This commitment is expressed in emergency relief, protection of human rights, post-conflict development, resettlement assistance, and advocacy. 

Illien Foundation for Children – The mission of the Illien Foundation for Children, Inc. is to empower children to become self-sufficient and contributing members of society by promoting their health, education, and welfare and ultimately, to eliminate the cycle of poverty for marginalized children around the globe.  Illien is a volunteer-run organization and 95% of donations go directly to those in need, including Haregewoin Tereffa’s children in There Is No Me Without You (see shelf friends).  You may also indicate that your gift is for Mrs. Tereffa.

Share Our Strength - I learned about this organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger in America from  a wonderful food/cooking blog, “French Laundry at Home“.  Based in Washington, D.C., the nation has recognized the efforts of SOS.  SOS has partnered with the Food Network as well as various corporate partners to encourage gift-giving that helps the young ones who need it most.  For example, send yourself a “wine of the month” while helping to stop hunger at the same time!

VOLUNTEER

Girls on the Run - Girls on the Run is a non-profit prevention program that encourages preteen girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through running.  The GOTR curricula address all aspects of girls’ development – their physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual well-being.  My cousin Lauren volunteers with the GOTR Chapter in Charlotte, NC, and wrote to me:

I wish it had been around when we were younger! I think we’d have a lot more active girls who thought more highly of themselves.