Growing up in Los Angeles, CA, I owe much of my success to the positive mentors and opportunities I encountered in my community. Their guidance and support shaped my path, and now I strive to give back and uplift others through meaningful community engagement.
For the past five years, I have led the Blink Social "Lift As You Climb" Christmas Drive, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to spreading holiday joy and cheer in South Central Los Angeles. This annual event has touched the lives of over 1,000 families, providing much-needed support during the holiday season.
Through generous donations from our sponsors, as well as contributions via our Amazon registry and PayPal, we collect toys, gifts, and essentials. These donations are then distributed to families, ensuring that children in our community have a memorable Christmas.
Another cherished initiative is "Christmas at Crespi," an event where we bring over 20 families from South Central Los Angeles to my alma mater, Crespi Carmelite High School. This event is a true celebration of community and giving.
We organize transportation, sending a bus to pick up all the families and bring them to Crespi. Each family receives a bag of toys, ensuring that every child has a gift to open on Christmas Day. The event also includes pizza and refreshments, fostering a festive and joyous atmosphere.
These opportunities are not just about giving gifts; they are about providing hope and creating lasting memories. By incorporating members from Black Greek Letter Organizations, we also offer positive representation and mentorship to the children, showing them the possibilities that lie ahead.
The work we do through these initiatives is deeply meaningful. It provides children with a sense of joy and normalcy during the holidays, and it gives families hope and support. Seeing the smiles on the children's faces and knowing that we are making a positive impact in their lives is incredibly rewarding.
My vision is to continue growing these initiatives, expanding our reach and impact in the community. By lifting others as we climb, we can create a brighter future for the next generation, filled with opportunities, hope, and positive representation.
Through my community engagement efforts, I aim to honor the support I received growing up and pay it forward. It is a testament to the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together to support one another.