With so much need in the world, and so many organizations trying to address the myriad issues facing society, where do you turn to do what you can? These are the charitable organizations I actively support and I encourage you to reach out to them to see how you can help.
Darkness to Light
As a survivor of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA), I am painfully aware of what the long-term effects can be on the many boys and girls who have been abused. While law enforcement does what it can to punish those perpetrators they catch, the damage is done. For years, Darkness to Light has been educating, not just parents, but all those who work with children on how to detect the signs of a child who has been abused and, more importantly, how to prevent abuse from happening in the first place.
My Sister’s House
Abuse is not just relegated to children. Many women are trapped in physically and/or emotionally abusive relationships. My Sister’s House provides services to women to help them and their children get out and stay safe. They provide safe houses throughout the Charleston area to give these women a chance to get back on their feet and regain control of their lives and to protect their children.
Chase After a Cure
With a goal of finding treatments to various childhood cancers, especially neuroblastoma, Chase After a Cure has been raising funds, purchasing lab equipment, and gaining public awareness for their cause. This is an area that requires considerable research but, because it affects a small percentage of children, receives little funding.
American Heart Association
Heart disease and stroke are the #1 cause of death in South Carolina. As a former smoker I am very aware of the damage we can do to ourselves and how difficult it can be to take direct action to improve our health. The American Heart Association has been at the forefront of this issue for many years. You’ll find me working at the upcoming Heart Ball in March, 2015.