GIVING BACK
One of my big takeaways from earning a Certificate in Nonprofit Fundraising and Institutional Development from UCLA was how vital transparency is. For me, that means being transparent in how I do business; whether working on a destination wedding or a charity gala, I need to be the same person following the same rules.
Giving back takes many forms, from donating old clothing and toys to Goodwill Centers; dropping off a bag of groceries at your local food bank; or volunteering your time at your local church, synagogue, mosque, neighborhood school, or hospital are just a few of the things you might already be doing.
Discovering how you can make giving back part of your event often starts within your own extended family and circle of friends. And it's important to know that your money, donations, or time spent are going to people and places in need. Charity Navigator evaluates over 9,000 of America's best-known and some lesser-known but worthy charities.
One example is wedding favors; if not immediately edible, they end up being tossed in a drawer or thrown away more often than not. A donation to one or a small group of charities in your guests' names is a great way to thank them for sharing your special day and celebration.
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Project Angel Food prepares and delivers over one million medically tailored meals each year, free of charge to homes of men, women, and children affected by life-threatening illnesses. Declared an essential service during the COVID-19 pandemic by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Project Angel Food has expanded to meet the moment and the need throughout Los Angeles County to deliver medically tailored meals and nutritional counseling services to more than 2,400 people per day. This is an increase of 54% from PAF’s pre-pandemic numbers.
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TOMS, founded in 2006, is driven by a single mission: To make life more comfortable. Toward that end, TOMS not only ensures that every pair of its namesake slip-ons are soft, breathable, and lightweight for an optimal fit—the company has also charged itself with the responsibility of providing for the comfort of children in impoverished regions worldwide. For every pair of TOMS shoes or eyewear purchased online or at retail, the company will provide a pair of new shoes or will help give sight to a person in need. TOMS has revolutionized philanthropy with their One for One approach to giving back.
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The White Feather Foundation was founded in 2007 by Julian Lennon for the conservation of life to raise funds for environmental, humanitarian and clean water projects. Your involvement will help make an immeasurable difference and give a voice and support to the countless lives of those who cannot be heard, help to raise funds for the betterment of all life and honor those who have truly made a difference.