Helping Others

I feel very fortunate to have my career and family life. But there are those who aren't so lucky. I believe that part of the responsibility that comes with being in the public eye is to draw attention to important causes and set an example for everyone to notice and follow.

Read Across America

I was so happy to get the chance to participate in a program sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA) called "Read Across America." This program promotes reading awareness to children in every community. The program celebrates reading on or around Dr. Seuss's birthday, but communities can celebrate the event on any date.

This year, "Read Across America" is from March 3rd to March 7th. So that week, I went to an elementary school in Compton, CA wearing a big red and white hat. I really loved being there, and it was great fun to read to the kids, to show them pictures on the book, and I think they got a kick out of the big hat I was wearing. I can't express the satisfaction of participating in this event. It was wonderful to see the kids smile, and laugh, and just express their curiosity about a new book. As you probably already know I love anything that has a positive impact on the lives of children and I truly believe that "Read Across America" is a great program that will introduce the wonderful world of books to children.

"Read Across America," which began on March 2, 1998 is the "largest celebration of reading in America." The success of the program has attracted many people from all walks of life to take part in a wonderful program that encourages reading. I'm glad to have had the privilege of being a part of such a great program and I hope to take part on others like it. If you would like information about the program visit the "Read Across America" site at www.nea.org/readacross.

Although I have not chosen a particular charity to devote myself to yet, I'm researching various non-profit organizations that I'd like to work with. I love kids and am interested in working with St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, which is located in my hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. I like the idea of supporting an organization dedicated to helping sick children get better.

St. Jude's was founded in 1962 and the hospital has treated children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases in 50 states and 80 countries. The hospital's research has really revolutionized pediatric care and many doctors often send their patients to St. Jude's for treatment. There is no fee for accepted patients aside from what's paid for by their insurance or third party providers. St. Jude also helps the families of patients with transportation and local living expenses.

St. Jude's Volunteer division is open to all and the hospital has various volunteer programs for kids, college students and adults. You can also make donations, donate blood or participate in their fundraising programs. I especially like the Volunteens program for teens. The program gives young people the opportunity to learn various skills and help promote and assist St. Jude in providing entertaining activities for their outpatient children and their siblings during the summer. St. Jude only accepts 30 applicants each summer and applicants must write an essay to be considered in the program. There are also other programs such as the College Student Program, At Home Projects, and the Trike-A-Thon just to name a few. St. Jude really makes helping others a fun and learning experience for the whole family. For more information about St. Jude and volunteering opportunities in your local area you can visit their website at www.stjude.org.

I will keep you updated on other charitable organizations that I may get involved in and will post photos and writeups on other general charity events that I attend and support. Thank you for supporting your favorite charitable causes and remember that a lot can happen if we all do a little bit.