A Worthwhile Cause

Is it really that hard to have common decency and be kind?

2018-02-03T00:19:00.001-08:00

First of all, I don't blog anymore. I wish I did, but haven't been able to chisel away at time in my life to get a moment to let the thoughts flow.

I haven't been volunteering, which puts a hamper in keeping things in line with the focus of this blog's theme.

On top of that, though I am passionate about many things, I haven't been fired up enough about a subject enough in recent times to motivate my remembering I have this medium through which I can pour my thoughts and feelings out and vent on the interwebs.

A lot has happened since I last wrote. I've encountered many issues, and learned a great deal of things. But it wasn't until today that I may have reached my tipping point; today I got fired up.

Meet Timothy Birmingham.

I'm not going to lie to you and say I'm an avid follower of his channel on YouTube. Now that I've been introduced to his sincere and uneventful vlog, there is an endearing quality in the straightforwardness of his videos.

Birmingham is not what you'd expect of a typical You Tuber. He's only been active since 2011, has a little over 4,000 subscribers to his channel, and a total of about 300,000 views total. He's no You Tube celebrity by any measure. He's just a normal human being.

I haven't seen all of his videos. I only saw one.

I only saw this one:

It's the only one I needed to see.

I don't know who the Annie Johnson he created his video message for was, but I hope she did see it, and I hope she is ashamed.

Anyone who knows me, knows I can be empathetic to a fault (when I'm not being a selfish human being), and couldn't help but see this man speaking and hear my father's words.

My father was disabled, and he didn't let that stop him. He tried. Unfortunately, to echo Timothy's words, the jobs he was allowed to do just weren't out there. I heard my father called a lazy freeloader once. It's sad how the person that said that didn't actually know him. My father put in his time in the workforce to qualify for whatever benefits were available to him through social programs, because he qualified for them, much like Timothy. No one deserves to be disrespected, demeaned, or scorned because they did not follow the path that someone else feels is conventional or correct. No one deserves to be ridiculed because they take advantage of things they are rightfully entitled to.

That's what Annie did. She saw a man who had posted over 200 videos on You Tube about everything and anything his heart desired. From sharing food he ate, to general discussions about the day, to giving us a glimpse into his personal life and allowing us the opportunity of seeing him surrounded by his loved ones. She saw someone with time on his hands, something she possibly was jealous of, and assumed he was a government program freeloader. Here's a guy who can post hundreds of videos and stay home. How does he pay for all that food he records, or the electronic equipment he records on, or the computer he uses to upload and view his You Tube data on?

He pays for it, with funds he receives through programs he qualified for. He worked and paid into a system that allowed him the ability to exercise protections in place that now serve the purpose they were incepted for.

This genuine man did not deserve the callous and thoughtless words flung at him by someone who judged him on a single video. And though it may seem hypocritical that I am judging Timothy on this one video alone, and doing the same for Annie and her single comment, it's fair to say no one deserves to be called out the way Timothy was. Let him spread the joy, make friends, and post his videos. He isn't hurting anyone, and he's doing something that makes him happy.

I'm sorry Annie saw his crockpot video and lost it, and found no other way to vent her anger and disdain for Timothy's life choices but to leave negative comments that clearly hurt his feelings.

When will we stop hiding behind the mask of social media and continue being emboldened by the false sense of bravery we find in this digital presence, and spew venomous judgements on anyone and everyone simply because they don't reach our standards?

It's easy to miss the point when we lack empathy.

It's easy to be disconnected when we don't let our guard down and put ourselves out there. The only way to stay human is to continue surrounding ourselves with humans. That's what I love about volunteering. It forces you to look beyond your comfort zone, and see how others with varying circumstances live differently. Helping others shows you just how good you may have it.

I'm not perfect by any means, nor will I ever be. But I'm thankful for the impact my father made on me and how I was brought up. I may have lost my way here and there as I grew up, but I'll never forget the importance of a smile, and the powerful impact a kind gesture can have on someone's day or life.

Whether it's a handshake, a smile, a warm embrace, a passing gesture, or a comment on some form of social media interaction, do it kindly, empathetically, and remember that every single person is living and experiencing this life in a different way, under different circumstances, and from varying perspectives. So be kind, because as the saying goes, when it comes to this life, none of us are making it out alive.

#Fitchthehomeless - A Humorous Take on a Very Serious Problem

2013-05-30T11:24:00.001-07:00

By this time, I'm sure most of you have come across the #Fitchthehomeless hashtags and references saturating every social media platform we're registered for.

For those of you who aren't a part of the cool kids clique, please stop reading my blog. I kid, of course.

If you haven't had a chance to see what all the buzz is about I encourage you to check out this short video by the genius behind all the hullabaloo, Greg Karber:

The gist: a man so disgusted by the exclusionary business model of a deluded clothing company, decides to hit them where it hurts - their brand image.

If you paid careful attention, you'll catch the fact that this video was meant to be over the top. In a hyperbolic gesture, Karber goes about handing out clothing to the homeless of Los Angeles' Skid Row.

I've been reading articles, blogs, and watching various news reports on this newest of hashtags (#Fitchthehomeless), and have found many vilifying Karber and his actions. I'll admit, I was a little apprehensive when I first saw the video. However, after giving it a few more runs, and studying the references made by its creator, I jumped on board. I only wished I was misguided enough in my previous clothing purchases, to have something of A&F's to donate. I, however, remain as uncool as I did in high school. The coolest thing in my closet was a Sesame Street t-shirt from Target. Needless to say, I was severely downhearted I could not offer any firsthand assistance in this movement.

You have to remember, as terrible as the "rebranding" might seem, it's meant as a poke at Abercrombie & Fitch. It's not about homeless being lesser people because Karber is portraying them as such. He's making a commentary on A&F's perception of the homeless. During the introductory section of his video he shows us a screenshot of an article that states A&F would rather burn clothing than donate it to the homeless, according to an anonymous source within management at the organization.

Check it:
http://elitedaily.com/news/world/abercrombie-says-it-would-rather-burn-clothes-than-give-them-to-poor-people/

Karber didn't say to himself, "Which group of people can I exploit to get the word out on how much I hate Abercrombie & Fitch." He read various articles that showed him the little respect A&F had for those they didn't consider worthy of their brand. He also alludes to an interview with A&F's CEO, Mike Jeffries, which shows just how deluded and full of himself the man at the helm of this clothier is.

The video is a call to action, more so to change the perception in general about exclusivity. There are many other reasons A&F is reprehensible as a company, however, this is the one that has been more polarizing. I'm just calling out the fact that Karber is playing off of their own words and biases. I'm assuming his rationale was, if A&F would rather burn their clothing than donate it to the homeless, then the best way to get back at them would be to give it to the homeless. He wasn't trying to demean anyone. However, there will always be criticism. If he'd gone the overweight angle, he probably would have caught flack for altering A&F clothing and having overweight friends wear it.

Karber himself urges viewers to push the movement forward, not by following his example and handing the clothing out to strangers on the street. He suggests gathering all A&F clothing and donating it to a homeless shelter. His handing out the clothing on the streets of L.A. was simply a gesture, his movement personified. He didn't intend to bring the homeless down a peg, the pegging was angled towards A&F.

Watch the video, and form your own opinion. At the very least enjoy it for what it is, a funny video. Approximately 7.5 million views can't be wrong. It's got some pretty priceless zingers and a cool reference to my favorite movie of all time.

It was during this clip I also remembered another touching video about the life of the homeless.

I'm sure we've all been guilty at some point, of ignoring that homeless person begging at the entrance of some grocery store, or next to some freeway/highway exit.

Please take the time to watch this short interview with Ronald Davis:

Weeks had gone by since I was first exposed to this clip, and I'd forgotten all about Ronald, until my workout at the gym yesterday. I was listening to Pandora when "What It's Like" by Everlast came on.

The haunting introductory lyrics beg the question, "Have I been guilty of indifference?":

We've all seen the man at the liquor store beggin' for your change
The hair on his face is dirty, dreadlocked and full of mange
He asked a man for what he could spare with shame in his eyes
"Get a job, you fuckin' slob"'s all he replied

[CHORUS]
God forbid you ever had to walk a mile in his shoes
'Cause then you really might know what it's like to sing the blues

I've been guilty of indifference. I've ignored that man, stared straight ahead, sunglasses hiding the fact that I can clearly see him. I haven't gone as far as muttering anything disrespectfully. However, poisonous indifference is sometimes more hurtful than an actual comment, as Davis tells us.

Davis' honesty motivated many to act. Since his story went viral online, he's seen the positive influence of those who care. However, not every story will have a happy ending, or garner a huge following like the stories of Ronald Davis or Ted Williams. (Who can forget the Man with the Golden Voice?)

I remember my childhood in Los Angeles, and the mornings I spent with my father buying McDonald's for the homeless in our community. In hindsight, I probably should have purchased healthier food. Now I have to live with the regret of providing them with poisonous sustenance. But that's neither here nor there.

The point is, we don't all have to try to change the world by handing out clothing or food to the homeless of our city. We don't need to go out with a camera and interview the man with a cup full of change at the nearest freeway exit. We just have to remember to be kind.

No one knows our story, much like we don't know everyone else's life. It's the gestures, the nods, the smiles, and the acknowledgements (or lack thereof) that make this world what it is. We need to be better for the sake of being better, treat each other with respect, and do whatever we can to have some sort of positive impact on our surroundings.

We may never know what it's like to walk in the shoes of those less fortunate, but we can do our best to ensure they can still walk on with their respect intact.

I'd like to give a special thanks to Greg Karber for looking this post over, and ensuring I didn't take anything out of context!

The Big Runner and The Little Runner!

2013-05-21T00:36:00.001-07:00

The story of Julie Weiss isn't a new one. I was just late to the party.

A few months ago I came across the story of the Marathon Goddess, Julie Weiss. Hers is the inspirational story of a person determined to make a difference. For those of you who don’t know, Julie’s story started with the loss of her father.

If you haven't heard her inspirational story, please take the time to watch the short YouTube video below (also be sure to follow her YouTube channel and watch the videos she's uploaded):

Not only did she complete the challenging task of running 52 marathons during the year span she'd allotted for herself, but she was able to raise over $180,000 in the process.

Though her 52 marathon project ended with the completion of the LA Marathon in March 2013, she's maintained her pace and continued making an impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer. It's a shame I found out about it as she was wrapping her project up. I would have made the trip to my home town to see her cross the finish line on her epic 52nd marathon run.

Even though she successfully completed this impossible endeavor, she's refused to rest on her laurels, and continued to push herself to do more, because there is always more to do when it comes to making this world a better place. She now has the goal of raising one million dollars to fund research for a cure to end pancreatic cancer once and for all.

Hers is truly an inspiring story. In the face of injury, obstacles, and fatigue she prevailed and conquered the marathon, a feat which (legend has it) killed the man, whose original run inspired the modern athletic event. She did this not once, but 52 times. Not only is she alive and kicking, she's still running, and serving as a role-model to those who are also driven to make a change.

One such person that has taken Julie's example to heart is a little girl, who can't be more than 10 years old by the looks of this picture off one of Julie's Facebook posts:

One 5k a month?? If this little girl can do it, what's stopping me?

I don't know who this little girl is, save for the name given to her by Julie on this post this last Sunday, but I find inspiration in the fact that someone so young can have the inclination to help.

Avery is my hero! I wish her the best in her project and hope she reaches her goal successfully! To Avery's parents, we need more parents like you guys in this world! You've raised a magnificent little girl who is a part of a movement of selfless individuals that is changing our world for the better!

I've got a 5k to look forward to in July, but little Avery has motivated me to start hunting and look for more opportunities to combine my fitness goals with my love for getting involved. Don't worry everyone, I'll train more carefully so that I don't bust like I did for my marathon training.

I've linked up a thumbnail of the Color Me Rad 5k I'll be running in Saint Louis, July 28.

I encourage you to get involved. You don't have to commit to a years worth of fitness endeavors like Avery or Julie, but maybe volunteering at one of these events near you would be a place to start. The amount of events held yearly throughout the US is staggering.

To learn more about how you can help the Marathon Goddess, Julie Weiss, in her fight against pancreatic cancer (and also read her blog about her 52 marathon journey), hit the link below:

http://www.marathongoddess.com

To learn about the organization Julie is working with, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, visit:

http://www.pancan.org

To learn about the PurpleStride events nationwide hit the link:

http://www.purplestride.org

I hope to bump into you ladies on one of my runs! Keep up the good work, and thank you for the inspiration!

Publicity For a More Than Worthwhile Cause

2013-05-15T14:20:00.004-07:00

It's not often I'm inspired by the actions of another.

Wait, that sounded extremely egotistical. Let me rephrase. I don't mean to say that I'm so blinded by my own self-righteousness that I ignore the inspiring, motivational, and selfless actions of another. What I mean to say is that, as is the case with everyone else, I am so busy by the insignificant details of my own existence, I blind myself to the things happening in the lives of those around me. This isn't an epiphany I had. It didn't just dawn on me that I'm busy, and so is everyone else. I'm just mulling over the concept because of something that served as a "pick me up," so to speak, and motivated me to continue after what's been making me happy.

A few weeks ago I came across this status update:

Can't believe this only got 6 likes.

That's right! I made it extra-large so you could see what motivation looks like!

This guy and I go back ages. I still remember when we backed each other up during a junior high school fight. (In hindsight, it wasn't much of a fight to be honest. I got kicked in my nether-parts and Monty had to drag me away from the scene of the crime to avoid getting caught. We were all idiot kids back then. btw sorry Vlad. I deserved that kick to the nads.)

But I digress. In the interest of transparency and full-disclosure, I have not donated. But I intend to. I know, I know, good intentions, road to hell. I know. But that's not the point I'm making.

Sometimes we never know the impact our actions could have on someone else. We carry on in our day-to-day, oblivious to the fact that what we do will affect another. Whether it's by putting the cart back in the rack in the grocery store parking lot, spitting that gum out on the sidewalk, or giving that homeless person that solitary nickel bouncing around in your pocket.

I'm inspired by Monty because not only is he pursuing something selfless for the benefit of others, but he's humble enough to ask those around him to lend a hand in bringing his desires to fruition.

He's getting an experience of a lifetime, you say? Getting a trip paid for, you say? Going on a vacation on someone else's dime?

Hit the link and explore just what exactly the proceeds of this campaign are funding:
http://www.gofundme.com/1x64o4

For those of you who actually visited thank you. For those of you who didn't, let me break it down. How many of you use your down time to provide medical care to those less fortunate. Who here would expose themselves to things like Malaria, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Polio, Tetanus, Diptheria, and of course HIV, just to take a few snapshots of antelope in their natural habitat? I'm crazy, and even I'd be slightly on the fence, right before jumping in with both feet.

I don't mean this post to come off as a diatribe. I just want to show that we don't all have to take 4 weeks off and volunteer in Africa to make this world a better place. Just do something positive, something worthwhile, and post it to your Facebook page, send it in an email blast, text it to a friend. Do something positive that makes you feel good, and share that good feeling with another. It's infectious, and will no doubt become a catalyst for someone else.

In a previous post I wrote of the inspiration a complete stranger (Joe Mihalic) gave me, when I read the tale of his pursuit of something seemingly unattainable. Today I share with you how someone I've known years, has surprised me, motivated me, and inspired me to challenge myself and continue being better than I am.

If you find it in your heart, and in your wallet, please support Monty in his endeavor! Let him have an impact on the life of a couple Kenians.

Also follow his blog to keep updated on his trip!

To learn more about the organization Monty is working with, or find ways to get involved, check out International Volunteer HQ's website:
http://www.volunteerhq.org

Links:
http://www.gofundme.com/montyyoung

http://montyyoung85.blogspot.com

How could you say no to a face like that?

Another delayed update

2013-03-29T22:22:00.002-07:00

I know, I should be updating this more often. Don't judge me.

I'm happy to report there are lot's of things happening on the volunteer front!

First and foremost I'd like to give myself some publicity. I'm going to be running in the Go! St. Louis Marathon this year. Actually, I'm running it this Sunday, April 7th.

I had it in my head to run the full marathon when I first heard about it, but then an honest assessment of my own capabilities had me reassess my decision and opt for the half-marathon instead. I'm all for the whole "mind over matter" mindset, but I'm also a realist.

To learn more about the marathon follow the link:
http://www.gostlouis.org/about/our-mission.html

I've been involved with a few awesome organizations out here, and have gotten motivated time and time again to get involved in more important causes. As part of a leadership development course I've been attending, the founder of the Saint Louis Language Immersion School came to speak to us and had a truly motivating message. When I saw this organization listed under the ones you are able to run for, I gained an extra incentive to participate.

To learn more about the SLLIS follow the link:
http://sllis.wordpress.com/faq/

If you want to make a donation and sponsor me follow the link below (PLEASE):
http://www.crowdrise.com/TeamStLouisLanguageImmersion/fundraiser/alvaroarias

I'm more than likely going to die, so how about you do one last nice thing for me and sponsor my run!

I will also include that even though I will more than likely meet my untimely demise via this run, I have been lucky enough to execute on some good advice I received from a person I've come to admire a lot. If you haven't read Joe Mihalic's blog about his journey to being debt-free DO IT!

NOW:
http://nomoreharvarddebt.com/

It was my memory that served me when preparing for this run. He'd mentioned a solid pair of shoe and in my research, decided to go for the style he'd listed.

To read the awesome advice in his post, hit the link:
http://nomoreharvarddebt.com/2012/09/08/saving-money-with-my-time-machine/

Not only did I purchase the same shoe, but also found the same great deal. The color wasn't as cool as Joe's, but the comfort was clear as soon as I put them on. In Joe's words, it is one "HELLUVA" good shoe!! If you're reading this, thanks Joe! You're the man!!

Thankfully, due to my involvement with this leadership course I've been able to branch out in the Saint Louis area and gain some ground on my goal of giving more of my time to things that are worth it. If I survive this run, I've got some good work ahead of me.

Learn about the great things some of these organizations I'm hopefully going to be helping are doing, and see if there is any way you can get involved as well!

Saint Vincent Home for Children
http://saintvincenthome.org/index.shtml

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Saint Louis
http://www.hccstl.com/homepage.aspx

Casa de Salud Saint Louis
http://casadesaludstl.org

There is so much left to do, and I'm happy to report the little progress I've made. I hope some of you have been able to find ways to get involved in your communities, and make a small impact to the world around you.

We'll see what the next update brings!

Hey there, long time no see...

2012-12-31T04:31:00.003-08:00

It's been 249 days, or 8 months 5 days, or 35 weeks, or 5976 hours, or 358,560 minutes, or 21,513,600 seconds, since I last wrote in this blog.

Disappointing, I know. Even after being so jazzed up on my first post. After all the support, all the well-wishing, all the pats on the back and all the positive vibes I simply quit.

"What happened?"

That's the question I've gotten hit with so many times since this endeavor took a small detour. And there's no real way to excuse the fact that I lost drive. I guess all there is to say is a line I'll have to borrow from the movie The Words.

"Life happened."

I had a few more volunteering experiences after April 27th, but I didn't follow through on documenting it. One skipped day turned into two, then two into 4 and so the gap grew exponentially, so I went on with my life.

However, it was during the course of that mundane life that I came across a motivator. I got a jolt of inspiration, all because of another blog.

There I was sitting in front of my computer (for those who are wondering yes, it's a Macbook) and by accident came across this website:

http://nomoreharvarddebt.com

If you have nothing better to do, if you should have something better to do, if you need something to do, if you have enough to do and yet need something even more important to do, READ THAT BLOG!

Whether you're into financial responsibility or not, you need to take the time to read the account of Joe Mihalic, a Harvard Business School graduate that decided he wouldn't be defined by his monthly payment towards a $90k student loan for the better part of his professional life. This story is more than just an story of a guy who wanted to be debt free. It's about passion, drive and focus; things I've been lacking.

It was like a good book I couldn't put down. I don't know if it was the humor, or the down-to-earth characteristics of the author. But I read the whole thing in less than a day. It gave me the renewed focus I'd been needing for a long time.

A very wise person once told me:

I think you’re a perfectionist. I think that in this world, perfectionists have a hard time succeeding. There are those who sometimes manage to do it, but only after they’ve gotten their start by doing things in a “good enough” fashion. You’re obsessing with perfection when “good enough” is what you need to be worrying about. Again, I might be reading too far into this, but I remain convinced that you have self-doubt, a doubt about executing flawlessly, when in fact, just executing imperfectly is what you need to be doing.

Talk about hitting the nail on the head!

It reminds me of Coach Lombardi's famous quote:

"Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence."

So I'm going to chase after perfection, and hope for the best.

So.... What have I been up to in these last 249 days, or 8 months 5 days, or... well you get the idea.

Remember that corp job I declined initially? Well, I ended up taking it.

Do I regret it? Deep down, probably. But if I really meditate on the point, I can't. I'd like to think this relocation has changed me, for the best. I've been living in a suburb a few minutes outside of St. Louis, Missouri.

One thing I will say, the Beach Boys were right when they sang the lyrics, "the Midwest farmers' daughters, really make you feel alright." The girls out here are gorgeous! Sorry CA girls... just gotta call it like I see it! And that's all I'll say about that.

I know, focus... focus!

With regards to the message I'm trying to promote with this blog, I have to share that I haven't done much to advance my work in this part of the county. I've had a few opportunities to get involved, however, because of the position I took and the responsibilities I took with it, I haven't been able to allocate any time to volunteering.

After almost 6 months of working here I'm ready to buckle down. I've made a few connections that will allow me the opportunities I need to get back on track. I no longer have the focus of volunteering only for a full year. All I know is that I want to invest my time (the little that I have to myself) in more fulfilling ways. There is so much to do, and here I am watching Lost on Netflix. Yeah, I know... I know.

I know it's cliché, but I think the new year couldn't come at a better time.

Time to do something worthwhile.

Follow this blog

Shadow Session

2012-04-27T01:25:00.002-07:00

A very quick update, seeing as how I had a preparation day today. I went for my Shadow Session and pseudo-orientation for my participation in the Reading Partners program as a reading tutor.

I got to submit my paperwork and get brought up to speed on the program and what my responsibilities will entail.

I didn't take any pictures, since I didn't want to be that creepy guy walking around an elementary school campus taking pictures.... not the best way to go down in LA.

I'd like to thank Jourdan and Nicki from Reading Partners Los Angeles for getting me setup!

To learn more about this organization please visit:
http://www.readingpartners.org/

Reading Partners is dedicated to transforming struggling young readers into confident readers who are excited about learning.

How we do it:

Focus on children from low-income communities.
Give one-on-one instruction at the student’s reading level.
Recruit and train community volunteers to work with children.
Partner with high-need elementary schools to offer an effective program on campus.
Provide a way for volunteers to give a small amount of their time to make a huge difference in a child’s life.

If you would like to volunteer or donate please visit their website and learn more about how you can do it.

You can also follow them on Twitter @ReadingPartners or the location I'm involved with directly @RPlosangeles

And tomorrow I get to meet with the director of The Eli Home in Anaheim to see how I can be used there.

Goodnight everyone!

Let's fill that boot again!

2012-04-25T23:08:00.001-07:00

What a day!

Another day with Fill the Boot turned out to be pretty awesome! It was a pretty busy day for the firefighters of Firehouse 58! They worked pretty hard. I had a ton of fun and even though I am fighting to keep my eyelids open at this point, it was all truly rewarding!

If you ever get a chance to volunteer with this program you will never regret it!

How could you say no to a face like that?
see more pictures at:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.364997786869575.71904.351718844864136&type=1

I hope that all the events I'm involved with over the next year have volunteers that have the energy of the men and women of the LAFD and the people of the MDA. I could not have asked for a more awesome Wednesday.

Even though Channel 4 Weather said it was going to be col with off-and-on showers, it turned out to be a pretty sunny day, much to the dismay of everyone involved. I got a pretty nice sunburn, even though I was using sunscreen.

Special thanks to Soda Pops (http://sodapopsla.com/) and Domino's (http://dominos.com/) for providing sustenance for all those involved today!

I have to repeat this from Monday's post:

I'd like to thank the MDA (specifically Whitney M. of MDA Los Angeles for coordinating this and setting me up with today). To learn more about the MDA and how you can help please visit:

http://www.mda.org/

You can also follow the LA MDA on twitter @mdalosangeles ~~Follow all the updates over the next two days by searching the hashtag #filltheboot~~

To get more updates on the LAFD follow them @LAFD

Also, to get more info on the event please visit:
http://lafd.blogspot.com/2012/04/help-firefighters-in-los-angeles-fill.html

As you may now be aware this was only a three day event, however keep an eye out for anything else that may come up to support the MDA. If you can please get involved! YOU WILL NEVER REGRET IT! Visit the sites and see if there are any upcoming and local events near you.

Well, tomorrow is my shadow session with Reading Partners LA. Time for bed.

Slow, but productive day...

2012-04-25T02:12:00.000-07:00

Well it seems I've come across a dilemma. It turns out that certain days I have to allot to the administrative aspects of this project. I was supposed to Volunteer at the LBUSD Special Olympics today, however, I am also to begin working with Reading Partners LA this week as well, and that program requires that I complete some medical tests as well as submit my Live Scan background information before Thursday. Well, seeing as how that's a few days away and the medical tests have a two day turnaround I had to rain check on working with the Long Beach School District today to get some of this stuff done.

First things first:

I know... I'm pretty pale...

I know I don't have the cutest arm but I got my TB shot and that little bump went away... so I'm assuming I'm good to go. However, I have to wait for the official result from the Doctor on my follow-up visit. Then I receive my TB card and I can submit that to Reading Partners.

I would like to give a special thanks to my Doctor for hooking it up with the free test, as I'm currently unemployed because I'm chasing after this endeavor. He was gracious enough to let this one go pro bono. I will not give you his name, because I'm sure he wouldn't want everyone to know he's doing this stuff for free. :D

On that note! I'd also like to thank my buddy (I've known this guy since elementary school), Valor Kopeny! You are the man!! Thank you for hooking it up with the Live Scan! I appreciate you working me in at such a short notice!!

He doesn't do this full time anymore, as he's been working a lot with his church, Calvary Chapel East Anaheim, as their Media Production Guru (that's not the official title, I'm calling him a guru 'cuz he's that kind of awesome). You can check out the Church's website and media uploaded by visiting:
http://www.cc-ea.org/

He still does Live Scan work by appointment. So, should you need his services please check out his website. Although he is not at the locations listed on the site you may still contact him to schedule a meet and he would be more than gracious in allocating some time for you!
http://www.livescannoc.com/id5.html

All that is good and all, however, I think this guy's true calling is photography. After looking at some of his work with the church and his personal photography work you can tell he's got the gift needed to be a photog. Visit his site and keep him in mind should you need any of his expert help! Just tell him Alvaro sent you, and he'll totally take care of you!
http://valorkopenyphotography.weebly.com/index.html

I don't know where I'd be without the help of these awesome people!! Thank you for helping this guy out! From the bottom of my heart, thank you guys!

Time to get some rest, I get to enjoy another day with the brave men of the LAFD to gather some funds for the MDA!!

Goodnight everyone!!

Fill the Boot!

2012-04-24T01:53:00.002-07:00

It's only been two days, and already this is shaping to be quite an experience!

I got to hang out with the coolest bunch of dudes today! A special thanks goes out to the men of Firehouse 94 of the Los Angeles Fire Dept!

Not only were these guys extremely committed to fundraising this great cause for the MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association), but they carried on with the best attitude and sense of humor. They got called out on at least three emergency calls, by my faulty count, throughout the morning and afternoon. These guys would have their engines ready to go at a moments notice.

These guys know how to eat!

Overall the day went as planned. Boots were filled, lives were saved, pizza was eaten. It was great!

Fill the Boot time!

To see more pictures of today's event go to:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/edit/a.363489390353748.71712.351718844864136/

One thing I also learned is that it turns out firefighters are pretty good at pulling pranks! (And, yes, ladies, Some of these guys are single...).

All in all it was a pretty awesome day.

Hopefully, if things pan out I'll be working on more events with guys like this!

I'd like to thank the MDA (specifically Whitney M. of MDA Los Angeles for coordinating this and setting me up with today). To learn more about the MDA and how you can help please visit:

http://www.mda.org/

You can also follow the LA MDA on twitter @mdalosangeles Follow all the updates over the next two days by searching the hashtag #filltheboot

To get more updates on the LAFD follow them @LAFD

Also, to get more info on the event please visit:
http://lafd.blogspot.com/2012/04/help-firefighters-in-los-angeles-fill.html

Check out the map and see if you can stop by any of the planned intersections to give your support. As always if you cannot make it you can make an online donation directly at MDA's website.

On a sidenote, two firefighters were hurt today while responding to an emergency all the while this event was going on. Just to show you these guys don't take a break even while fighting for a good cause, we had just wrapped up the event at our intersection when everyone received the news. My thoughts go out to them and hope they have a speedy recovery:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/04/los-angeles-firefighters-seriously-hurt-in-collision-with-trash-truck.html

Ok! Time to knock out and see what tomorrow brings at the Special Olympics in Long Beach!

As always, you can follow me on twitter @worthwhilecaus

Or like my page on FB:
http://www.facebook.com/AWorthwhileCause

and also if there's any event you can come out and join me at check out my calendar:
https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=aworthwhilecause%40gmail.com&ctz=America%2FLos_Angeles

Earth Day - Day Zero

2012-04-22T23:46:00.001-07:00

Day Zero, what a day...

Who knew the beaches of southern CA have so much trash on them. I can't honestly speak for all of them, as I only went to one today, but man. Today opened my eyes to a serious problem.

Let's just say, I am NEVER, EVER, EVER (I'd include more EVERs, howEVER, I believe that would be EVER so redundant) nEVER going to get into the waters of Venice Beach. My sincerest respect for the surfers who donned their wetsuits and braved the filth infested waters. You gentlemen truly love the ocean, even though you were in danger of catching some sort of infection by coming in contact with her today.
I learned two very important things while picking up trash at Venice Beach today: 1) Ladybugs really love seaweed (and should you ever find yourself in the position of collecting ladybugs, you must go to a beach and find the seaweed which has been washed ashore. You'll score bigtime), and 2) I hate cigarette butts. I really do.

The event in all was pretty awesome!!

Throughout my walk up and down the sand the words of Walt Kelly rang true, "We have met the enemy and he is us." Just one piece of trash, that's all it takes. That candy wrapper, cigarette butt, bottle cap, it all ends up somewhere, and never was it more apparent to me than today. I already was pretty good about picking up after myself, but now I am going to make a point of not being responsible for one more piece of garbage washing up on our shores.

I hope you can do the same. I encourage you to sign up for one of these events in the future. Or heck, grab a trash bag and go to your favorite beach and just do a random comb of the sand. I guarantee you will never see that gum wrapper you throw on the ground the same way.

A VERY special thanks, of course, to Children Sports International for hosting and putting this all together!

Follow this link to get info on today's event:

http://iamplanetearth.blogspot.com/2012/03/be-solution-to-ocean-pollution-earth.html

Also, if you're interested in more pics of today's event:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.351683798212865.76069.169345689780011&type=3&l=7c632f081f
turns out I missed all the photops... lame...

To learn more about Children Sports International visit their site at:
https://www.childrensportsinternational.org/
Children Sports International seeks to be a source of inspiration for children and young adults to grow and inspire others to unite and promote a message of peace.

Tomorrow I'll be at a Fill the Boot Event sponsored by the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Time for bed!

Only a few days to go...

2012-04-17T19:21:00.003-07:00

I still have to post the calendar... I am definitely lagging here.

A lot has happened since I last posted, and I figured there's no better time to bring you all up to speed.

I haven't officially started the project however, a volunteer opportunity came up that I couldn't pass up. It all started with this Facebook post:

I have to say, it was great! Thank you so much Chef Olivia Hernandez of Artisan Catering and Events for allowing me to help! It was such a great experience. The ladies of Ladies Rock Camp Los Angeles were beyond gracious. I have not been around such a friendly bunch of people in a very long time. Also special shout out to Meg Taylor of Large Marge Sustainables for making the best bread and spiced tea I've ever had. I am highly considering going back to being vegan after having such amazing food.

I was supposed to have helped out Friday and Sunday. However, genius that I am, I decided to walk to the event, seeing as how it was being held at a school only 7 blocks from where I reside. It seemed like a pretty great plan for the first 3 blocks... then the rain started. Needless to say the walk in the rain got me sick. So I couldn't come back to help out on Sunday.

I was extremely disappointed. Because this is what the food looked like on day 1:

I didn't do much, just some minor cleanup and for the food prep I cut the cucumbers!! It was awesome. I met some great people and that's what made the experience so memorable!

So I missed out on the following days. Because I heard the food Saturday and Sunday was amazing. I have to do a plug at this point for all of those involved in making this such an awesome event and allowing me to participate in it!

First of all to the organization that brought this together:

http://www.rockcampforgirlsla.org/

http://www.facebook.com/ladiesrockcampla

Check the sites out for pictures and info. If you ever have a chance to participate for any future events they hold DO IT! Or if you have a young lady who would like to open up musically register for their next camp! These ladies know their stuff!!

And now to plug the culinary artists, if you need any sort of catering, whether you need catering for an NPO event, a wedding, a large party or even for a small event at home:

http://www.facebook.com/Artisancateringandevents

http://www.facebook.com/LargeMargeSustainables or http://www.largemargesustainables.com

It was great! And I look forward to helping out next year! I'm working on uploading the calendar for all the coming events. So be on the lookout for that. On the advice of my friend Erin DeHart I created a twitter account for this project. You can follow me @worthwhilecaus

Also if you have ideas of events I could participate in or you want to give my info to someone who coordinates events or volunteer work you can have them email me at aworthwhilecause@gmail.com.

2012-04-05T03:14:00.000-07:00

And the preparation continues.

Every passing day solidifies my resolve to begin this crazy endeavor. I have to admit, I've gotten some priceless looks from those I've told so far. My father's was the best thus far. It was as though I had told him that I was fact Spiderman.

He blinked a few times, as if to refocus his vision tilted his head towards the TV, making it seem that what he'd heard had come from the direction of the tube, and not his son standing directly in front of him.

The confusion on his face as he asked, "So, you're not going to start that job you were talking about?" seemed to be contagious, because for a moment I could feel the antibodies forming in my own body fighting off this infectious bewilderment. I blinked myself, to focus my resolution rather than my vision and repeated what I'd told him.

"No, I'm taking a year off to complete this challenge. What do you think?"

It was great. After a few silent moments his words summed up pretty much everyone else's response, "Cool!" This was followed by the typical fatherly inquiry, "Are you sure?"

It's been about a week since my initial post and I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that I am definitely sure.

The task of researching all the possible events I can participate in has been beyond daunting. But I have to admit that the planning stage is awesome. I'll be posting a calendar up soon, as requested by many of you to allow for some participation. It would be cool if some of you are able to join in on the experience.

I'd like to especially give thanks to Daino, Steven, Erin, Trandrew, Sanchez, Mr. Penny, Bridget, David L., Christie, Colleen, Zach, Alex, Fabi, Liz, Julie, Melissa my beloved lawyer :P and Rosy for either liking the status update or making an encouraging comment via FB or text. That electronic acknowledgment helps in more ways that you can imagine. I'd like to point out a special thank you to Nick Bunzli for keeping it real :D , a very special thanks to Candace for being the first to suggest a specific event for me. You have no idea how that little bit of advice saves me so much time and adds a special touch to the planning. Of course Valery for not looking at me like I'm crazy when I told you and just going with it :D you know me too well.

Again, I look forward to the 22nd and like I said before, if you have any ideas on specific events, or you know of people who might be able to point me into a direction that may help please keep me in mind!!

I had a dream...

2012-03-29T00:03:00.003-07:00

A lot of you might think I'm crazy, some of you might agree with what I'm doing, and still others might delete me from your friends list for deciding to type out such a ludicrous idea.

Let me give you a little bit of a back story to what led me to the path on which I now find myself.

I have been working since I was 16. For years I found myself chasing after the almighty dollar. I don't consider myself materialistic, I like nice things like any normal person, I prefer Mac over PC not because of what I can do with it, but because I just happen to think it looks cooler. Given the chance I will spend money for the sake of spending money because that is what society tells us is the normal thing to do. It's the norm I've been accustomed to since I acquired my first paycheck working part-time at a Mail-Boxes Etc while attending high school.

I should have gone to college, but the money was too good. I was making more money working in the corporate world, while friends of mine going to school were studying to eventually get the job I had.

Fast forward 10 years, and I find myself a 26 year old sitting in front of a computer, pouring my feelings out on this keyboard in search of a more fulfilling path. I've had good jobs, great jobs, crappy jobs and just jobs. I've learned a lot about myself and about the world.

After all this time I've noticed that no matter how philanthropic the company you work for swears it is, you never find yourself helping out on that side of the spectrum. You're stuck on the rat-race side, the side that has you screwing the little man, not helping him. When I think back to all my years working, I realize the only times I felt true satisfaction was when I participated in the volunteer and charity events sponsored or participated in by the powerful corporations I worked for. It was this knowledge I had been struggling with for a long time.

And just two days ago I had a dream.

See, I left my current job with the idea that I would start work at yet another very succesful corporation making a decent amount of money working, traveling and working some more. And it was then I realized I didn't want to do it all over again. Start a job I would love at first because of the stability and the financial security it gave me, only to hate myself years later for not being true to myself.

So I dreamt.

As crazy as it seems I declined the position I was offered, and instead began planning to pursue an undertaking beyond crazy, in my opinion. If it's crazy to me I can only imagine what those of you reading this will think.

I post this now, not to toot my proverbial horn, nor to make an attempt at seeming self-righteous with you guys. I respect all of you and the course your lives have taken. I appreciate all of your status updates and all the witty and sarcastic comments from time to time. I share this recent update to get your input and ideas. Because, God knows, I'm going to need it.

I have decided that beginning April 22, 2012 on Earth Day, I will challenge myself to participate in a volunteer/charity event daily for a full year. I have given myself a full month to prepare so as to allow a good amount of planning ahead of time, while allowing me some flexibility of last minute invitations or ideas from those of you who will be following me along. I'm not hoping for much, but hope that at least those of you who are my friends will care to see what's going on.

Feel free to leave comments, concerns, ridicules. All of it. Those of you who know me well enough will remember I have pretty thick skin, and know that when I've decided to to something I'm going to do it.

I'll probably be updating this here and there from here to April 22, but after that I'll be updating it daily to detail all the events I participate it and all the people I meet.

Lord help me :)

In advance I'd like to thank all of you for the support and the well wishes, because if I know any of you well enough there will be enough of those.