Why I Want to Give

Why did I start this blog?
Why do I want to give back?
How do I want to give back?

These are all questions I hope to answer along the way. I started this as a way to document my journey. As a way to connect with those that might need the help. As a way to encourage others to do the same.
I have led a very blessed life.
That’s not to say I grew up rich, or that I have a lot of money now. To me, money does not equal blessed. I grew up in a home where I felt loved. I never felt like I went without, although I know at times we did. My parents somehow managed to put my brother, my sister, and I all in private Christian school for our education from preschool through high school on one income. (I'm still not sure how they managed that.) I grew up knowing God. I grew up healthy.
Because of the generosity of others, I was able to experience many things in my childhood that I am sure I would not have been able to experience otherwise. People donated money in the form of scholarships for me to be able to get the education I did. They YMCA gave my parents financial assistance so they were able to put me in many programs during my childhood. People at my church gave to me in ways I can never repay. I could go on forever, but I don’t want to bore you to death.
I look around me and I feel a tugging at my heart. A need to give to others. God blessed me in many ways, but one I am most thankful for is that I was blessed with a healthy body. I want to fight for others who can’t fight for themselves.
I work in nonprofit for the YMCA and I really feel God has placed it on my heart to stay in the nonprofit world, whether in the YMCA or elsewhere, but I feel he is calling me to do more.
I am not sure yet what this is going to look like, or how it is going to play out, but I want to do something.
So what do I do? Where do I go from here?
I am not sure. It will be an interesting journey to walk through.
I want to help fight for those with CHD and for their families. I want to help those, and the families of those affected by special needs, medical or otherwise. I have a special place in my heart for foster children and those in the system. There are many things I would love to do.
What do I need from you?
I need your suggestions. I need your expertise. I need to know where you see a need. I need your encouragement. I will probably need your help.