Let's Play

I still refer to hanging out with my friends or doing what I love to do as "playing." Being playful and joyous and silly is important no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake. I plan on playing for the rest of my life! In order for an adult to have fun and learn through playing--to even know what it means to play-- they naturally played as a child. Of course, formal education is necessary and valuable for children, but they gain so much from PLAYING, just being kids. Being able to try new things, explore the unknown, socialize and laugh with friends, make mistakes, try again, and little by little discover your place in the world are significant pieces of childhood. Playing dress up at my birthday tea party, getting my American Girl Doll ready for school and making up obstacle courses for my friends to do on the jungle gym were all meaningful experiences for my childhood. At the time, I was just having fun and being a kid. I had no idea how much I was learning and how lucky I was.

There are boys and girls all over the world whose unfortunate circumstances took away their childhood. Poverty, violence and serious illnesses are just some of the things that deprive children of playtime. Not being able to play and have a carefree childhood significantly affects a child as they grow up and try to engage with the world. The Life is Good Kids Foundation is an incredible non-profit organization that is committed to helping children over come life-threatening challenges. The foundation addresses an epidemic not many people are aware of. Dedicated volunteers commit their time to help children express themselves, have fun, be creative and be part of a loving community.

A chain of three events (experiences/people) led me to The Life is Good Kids Foundation.

1. While studying abroad in Sydney, Australia last semester I interned with Barnardos Australia, a non-profit that supports children affected by poverty, abuse and neglect. I was blown away by the tremendous compassion and determination people have to ensure these kids have a childhood—because until every child on the planet has a healthy, happy and safe life, there is still work to be done. Although I interned in the corporate public relations department, my experience at Barnardos reawakened me to my passion for kids.

2. With summer around the corner, the only thing I knew was I was not sitting at a desk everyday. I knew I wanted to make a difference and work with kids so I contacted Sunrise Day Camp, which is for kids with cancer and their siblings. I have been working at Sunrise for two weeks and am so inspired by my campers—I haven’t been so happy to wake up in the morning in a while. They are already changing my life, probably more than I’m trying to change theirs.

3. Anyone who knows me knows I’m in love with Jason Mraz. Yes, he’s an adorable and talented musician, but what’s really attractive about him is his commitment to transform the world. When I got an e-mail that he would be performing at The Life is Good Festival in Canton, MA this September, I immediately purchased a ticket. Not only do all ticket proceeds go to the kids foundation, but once you purchase a ticket you have the opportunity to become a V.G.P. (Very Good Person)—get it? Like a VIP, but VGP? Anyways, two of my favorite things—Mraz and empowering children—in one event! How could I not raise money and awareness for this!?

And so I signed up to be a V.G.P (ha, I just get a kick out of that)! My goal is to raise $5,000 for the Life is Good Kids Foundation before the day of the festival. I understand people’s wallets are tight right now, but every dollar helps. Click the support me tab in the upper right hand corner of my fundraising page to donate!

Thank you for your love and support.

Have a playful weekend!

Alex