Today I attended two events, both of which focused on the need for and value of philanthropy in greater Los Angeles. There were about 75 people in these two meetings and the entire focus was on organizations and projects focused on people we generally don’t know. That’s right, the underserved, people living in the margins, people whom we may never meet, or never know. These are people who simply want an opportunity for a good, safe and productive life; people like us. Not too much to ask, especially in a country as prosperous as ours. And yet, this seems to elude so many.
One of the meetings I attended today was at the headquarters of the Boy Scouts in Los Angeles. I was stunned to hear that 60% of the children in the area this Council serves live below the poverty line. That is a staggering statistic. What I found most remarkable was the commitment of the people in the room wanting to help these kids. They are committed to teaching these kids basic life skills, and helping them develop the character that will sustain them in adulthood.
I have a friend who has a concept for a fledgling nonprofit with a simple goal — bring a bit of peace to our planet. My friend corralled a group of us to join him on Saturday night and we were out caroling in our neighborhood to raise funds for the children of a local group home known as 5 Acres, simply to help those kids have a brighter Christmas. It seems that small acts of kindness can go a long way.
Tags: Community, Giving, Giving Back, Holidays, Leadership, Social Responsibility
Posted in Vol. 02 - Tear Sheet 11 | No Comments »
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