I have explored the purpose and the principals of Save the Children.
However, this week I dug deeper into the taking action section of the website
which focuses on advocating for children through legislation. This section
defined advocacy, gave tips on effective advocacy. It also discusses aid
effectiveness and ways to structure finances to make the biggest impact. This
section also provides information on current legislation on specific topics.
Within the aid effectiveness tab there is a link that
provides a brief about Save the Children’s thoughts and recommendations to the
Obama Administration in regard to providing aid to other counties. I know the importance of advocacy; however,
writing letters to the Presidents’ Administration is out of my own personal
comfort zone, therefore, I find it to be a bit controversial.
Last week the topic of poverty struck a personal cord with
me. This week I have enjoyed reading about the different ways to advocate,
fundraise and make a difference in children’s lives. I realize in order to make
an impact on my community I need to step out of my comfort zone. It has been
inspiring to read about how others’ are making a difference and the ways I can
too.
Amber,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Taking the first step is always hard, but when you read about the work of others you do get inspired and motivated to do something. Our mosque (my place of worship) monthly participates in a non-profit organization in our community dedicated to feed the hungry. Every month when it is our turn, the mosque sends an e-mail asking for volunteers. As much as I wanted to help, I have always found myself hesitant to take the first step. This week and after our research on poverty, I decided to make my first appearance at “God’s Kitchen”. It was an amazing and humbling experience.
Hello Amber,
ReplyDeletethanks for sharing what you have learned from the Save the
Children e letters. I know what you mean that advocacy and the thought of actually reaching out to get word to policy makers could seem a little intimidating. But just think of it this way; many policies that we may benefit from someone just like us actually called and made contact with a President or Senator to make somthing into law or to change something that would make an issue better for many. Thinking in those terms makes it seem, well, do-able!