The Art of Giving . . . More Than a Theme!

I am a self-admitted Oprah groupie. I record her shows and treat myself to Oprah marathons on the weekend. On Saturday, I was watching her show which aired on Monday, November 27th. What would have been her “Favorite Thing’s Holiday Giveaway” show was something so much more. With support from Bank of America, each of the 314 people in the audience was given $1,000.00 and a challenge to return to their hometown to make a difference in a stranger’s life. Each person was given a video camera to record their experience.

Well . . . what can I say, other than it is unbelievable what people can do when they are inspired by the “gift of giving.” Two women turned their $2000.00 into $67,000.00 to support a family of nine, whose father has a terminal brain tumor. Their gift and support saved the family’s home, retired their medical bills and clothed their children. Another group of women turned this opportunity into a mission – and by the end of their week, with the help of major stores like Target and Gap, they had raised more than $200,000.00. A third woman, a teacher, bought shoes for every child (432 children) in her low-income school and then organized a walkathon, with the children raising an additional $27,000.00 to pass it forward.

I was reminded of the potential all around us to make a difference. In small gestures and in large . . . there are ways everyday that we can change other’s lives. Next week, our holiday parties are themed “The Art of Giving.” In each of our cities of service, our staff will work together to paint a mural for a local hospital – and that painting will be donated in their honor. This program, developed by Hospital Art in Atlanta, creates an opportunity for people to touch people. This year we are fortunate to be able to donate our murals to the San Diego Ronald McDonald House and the JFK Memorial Foundation of Coachella Valley.

People think that giving is always about money – but it isn’t. Giving is about the power you have to change the world. Your time, your talent, your passion can make a difference. At this time of year, when so much attention is placed on Christmas gifts, I encourage everyone to consider the possibility of the difference they can make. Whether it is something as simple as caroling in a senior’s home – to efforts as extraordinary as these women commandeered, I know there is someone waiting to be touched by your spirit – your generosity.

I am overwhelmingly grateful for the blessings in my life. It is a gift to me to share my heart, my wealth and my talent to help others. I hope you realize the same blessing in your own life at this very special time of year.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!