Charities I’m Supporting
Kelleth & Susu
August 24, 2019I had the honor of writing an article for my good friend Molly for "MY MAGAZINE". Since it was the holidays, I knew that many of our readers were in a thankful mindset — reflecting on the great things in 2019 and looking forward to all 2020 has in store. I highlighted three charities that I am a big supporter of and cover various issues that I care about dearly. At this year's convention, I will be donating a portion of my proceeds to these charities to further support the amazing work they are doing.
Womankind
iamwomankind.org
Womankind is a not-for-profit company based in New York City that helps survivors of gender-based violence. Its culturally sensitive services include a 24-hour helpline available in 18 different languages and dialects, the largest of its kind in North America. During the winter season, Womankind hosts a festive gathering full of multicultural food, holiday gifts, and craft activities from henna tattoos to writing cards. This annual event gathers survivors and their children, staff, board members, and volunteers in one space, celebrating the strength and resilience of all survivors and encouraging them to continue paving their ways to healing in the new year. By supporting Womankind, you will help survivors rise above violence and move beyond trauma.
World Central Kitchen
wck.org
World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef Jose Andres, is often known as the “Food First Responders,” serving millions of meals each year. Last year, WCK activated in response to 13 disasters. From feeding people in hurricane aftermath, to working in D.C. to feed federal workers during the government shutdown — whether natural or man-made — WCK is ready to serve. Currently, they’re feeding those affected by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas and by the wildfires in California. At the same time, WCK continues planting seeds in the communities where they work. The Plow to Plate program in Puerto Rico is helping to create food resiliency in the face of future disasters. In Haiti, aspiring chefs are obtaining the skills and confidence they need to elevate their careers and the country’s tourism sector. With your help there’s no place too far, or disaster too great, for WCK’s chefs to be there with a hot plate of food when it’s needed most.
Crisis Text Line
crisistextline.org
Depression often worsens during the holidays and technology has a bad rep for disrupting our personal connections. However, Crisis Text Line is here to help when needed most. A free, 24/7 crisis-intervention hotline, the organization connects people in crisis to trained Crisis Counselors. It’s the first and only national hotline to conduct its conversations exclusively through text messages, providing technology communications that save lives instead of causing further isolation. Crisis Counselors go through a rigorous training that gives volunteers the expertise to successfully and empathetically navigate crisis intervention. This rigorous training costs Crisis Text Line $1,008 per counselor, but is free to prospective Crisis Counselors. Consider making a donation that will go to the training of more Crisis Counselors as the work they do is life-changing and life-saving for those in crisis. You can help be the difference.
Gender-based violence, natural disasters, and mental health issues affect people of all races, ages, and socio-economic statuses. By giving people the support, resources, and empowerment to live life well, everyone benefits. We can make a difference for others to start sharing their unique gifts with the world. Be thoughtful in your giving this season; your donations help everyone share in festivity and light.
Womankind
iamwomankind.org
Womankind is a not-for-profit company based in New York City that helps survivors of gender-based violence. Its culturally sensitive services include a 24-hour helpline available in 18 different languages and dialects, the largest of its kind in North America. During the winter season, Womankind hosts a festive gathering full of multicultural food, holiday gifts, and craft activities from henna tattoos to writing cards. This annual event gathers survivors and their children, staff, board members, and volunteers in one space, celebrating the strength and resilience of all survivors and encouraging them to continue paving their ways to healing in the new year. By supporting Womankind, you will help survivors rise above violence and move beyond trauma.
World Central Kitchen
wck.org
World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef Jose Andres, is often known as the “Food First Responders,” serving millions of meals each year. Last year, WCK activated in response to 13 disasters. From feeding people in hurricane aftermath, to working in D.C. to feed federal workers during the government shutdown — whether natural or man-made — WCK is ready to serve. Currently, they’re feeding those affected by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas and by the wildfires in California. At the same time, WCK continues planting seeds in the communities where they work. The Plow to Plate program in Puerto Rico is helping to create food resiliency in the face of future disasters. In Haiti, aspiring chefs are obtaining the skills and confidence they need to elevate their careers and the country’s tourism sector. With your help there’s no place too far, or disaster too great, for WCK’s chefs to be there with a hot plate of food when it’s needed most.
Crisis Text Line
crisistextline.org
Depression often worsens during the holidays and technology has a bad rep for disrupting our personal connections. However, Crisis Text Line is here to help when needed most. A free, 24/7 crisis-intervention hotline, the organization connects people in crisis to trained Crisis Counselors. It’s the first and only national hotline to conduct its conversations exclusively through text messages, providing technology communications that save lives instead of causing further isolation. Crisis Counselors go through a rigorous training that gives volunteers the expertise to successfully and empathetically navigate crisis intervention. This rigorous training costs Crisis Text Line $1,008 per counselor, but is free to prospective Crisis Counselors. Consider making a donation that will go to the training of more Crisis Counselors as the work they do is life-changing and life-saving for those in crisis. You can help be the difference.
Gender-based violence, natural disasters, and mental health issues affect people of all races, ages, and socio-economic statuses. By giving people the support, resources, and empowerment to live life well, everyone benefits. We can make a difference for others to start sharing their unique gifts with the world. Be thoughtful in your giving this season; your donations help everyone share in festivity and light.