Non-Profit
Through reflections and analysis, I have decided that in the past, I have focused a lot of my energy on myself and my career. As I evaluate on my progress today, I must thank and contribute some of my reasons for success to a few individuals who offered a helping hand. And perhaps now that I am slightly more capable to help others, it is time for me to give back to some of the people and communities who have truly helped me in wonderful ways. I would also like to extend that help, to those who are less fortunate, even in the little ways that I can.
At a time of recession, many of my friends have begun cutting back on their spending habits. As we do this, instead of strictly looking at how we spend, I also encourage everyone to reflect on how we live, to fully consider how fortunate we are despite what [possible] lay offs/pressures we face from work, and from life. Just know that at least most of us will have running water when we turn on the faucet, that our toilets will flush when we press a lever, and know that something as small as the amount one of us may spend on a dinner eating out would be enough to support a child's month worth of expense. And that "donation" does not always equate to money, there are plenty of projects that can use extra volunteers' time.
My theory is that if it doesn't inconvenience me much, and it benefits others, why not? It sure beats sitting home and watching tv. And maybe you will learn to enjoy the volunteer work you do and enjoy the new company you connect with in the process, so it really is a win-win situation. =]
Below are two organizations that I am involved with.
Summer Search Foundation
Summer Search Foundation is a scholarship foundation that provides guidance and mentoring to low-income, altruistic high school students and help them realize their true potential for further academic success and professional advancement.
Summer Search has been a part of me since my high school years. From receiving their mentoring and guidance, to attending their summer educational trip, I have been benefited with these experiences tremendously. I can honestly say that I would have likely taken a very different path had I gone without their help during my teenage years. Perhaps, because I was fortunate enough to receive this help, I'd like to stay involved, give back and make sure those around me are also well taken care of, especially when I am in a better position to help now than before.
In July 2009, I have become a member of the Summer Search Bay Area Alumni Board. Here, I hope to help fellow alumni reconnect with each other and stay in touch with the program. Further, I'd like to spread awareness in our communities by doing volunteer work as well as informal mixers.
In Dec 2009, I have been selected as the IT Chair for the Bay Area Alumni Board with the goal to develop a platform for alumni to reconnect with each other, as well as building a better data infrastructure that will improve performance evaluation and data collection methods.
Save the Children
Save the Children is an organization focused on improving the everyday lives of the less fortunate folks here in the States as well as those in the developing world, with long lasting projects and contributions. During the time of emergency and crisis, they also do a fair share of work to help children at risk of hunger and malnutrition due to natural disasters, wars and other conflicts.
The particular program that I am more familiar with is their sponsorship program for children in third world countries. Many of these developing countries lack the infrastructure for sustainable growth. Save the Children try and help by working with the children and the locals to develop the entire community's ability to take care of itself. For example, they will provide much needed programs that enable the kids to attend and thrive at school, provide them with basic medical care and hygiene education.