Feb 07
Pay It Forward
A quote I live by sits at the top of my blog: “Remember where you came from… and always reach back.” I have been absolutely blessed in my life in so many ways, and one of my favorite ways to pay it forward is to support charitable organizations that are doing tremendous things, and on occasion, go myself to places in need of a few helping hands. I wanted a place to share some of these organizations and experiences with all of you.
Please take a look at the pages from my most recent mission trips, listed below.
Here are a few of my favorite charitable organizations:
Mercy Ministries – I was first introduced to Mercy Ministries at a conference in 2003. It is one of my favorite organizations to support because they provide a free-of-charge biblically-based program to a diverse population of young women from various socio-economic backgrounds, aged 13-28. Many of the girls, who come to Mercy for help, are facing a combination of debilitating circumstances and have been in various treatment facilities with unsuccessful long-term results. Mercy Ministries is committed to providing the young women with the most excellent program services that allow them to recognize their self-worth and prepare them to reach their full potential. Their non-conventional approach to healing allows young women to permanently stop destructive cycles and prepares them to take hope out into their communities.
The Andréa Rizzo Foundation - they raise funds to help children with cancer and special needs, fostering Andréa’s dreams of providing dance therapy to children with cancer and special education needs. The Foundation is dedicated to the growth and success of Dréa’s Dream, a dance therapy/expressive movement program for pediatric and young adult populations in hospitals, special education classrooms and medical settings throughout the country. This organization holds a special place in my heart because Andréa was a childhood friend of mine. She was killed by a drunk driver back in 2002, and her mother runs the Foundation in her memory.
Wounded Warrier Project – the WWP helps severely injured service members aid and assist each other, and provides unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of severely injured service members. I have a great deal of respect for those who voluntarily serve our wonderful country and protect our freedoms. My father served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and though he was not injured during his tour of duty, I feel it is important for us to take care of our soldiers who put their lives on the line to protect us when they return home.
Salvation Army – my grandmother used to donate to the Salvation Army every Christmas, and I see this as an opportunity to honor my Nanny. I’ve had the opportunity to sponsor a family for Christmas for the past few years; it’s something I always wanted to do, and because of how I’ve been blessed I have finally been able to do so.
[...] Pay It Forward [...]