The new year unfortunately got off to a difficult start for our colleagues, clients and friends living in Los Angeles. It’s hard to comprehend the scope of damage from the fires, especially for those of us living so far away. What we do understand is that people need help and support to get back on their feet and move forward. The road ahead has a lot of uncertainty for those affected by the fires, but the coming days will be easier because of the generosity and care that we can offer.
If students are wondering how they can help, there are many possibilities. In addition to gathering and sending much-needed items for donation, consider babysitting, pet sitting, dog walking, shoveling snow for neighbors and hosting bake sales to raise funds for reputable charities including those highlighted here by Charity Navigator.
World Central Kitchen has been providing hot meals to victims and first responders since the fires started. Please consider supporting their vital work here.
Popp & Associates recently donated to Pasadena Humane which has taken in over 700+ animals that have been affected by the fires, many of them suffering from burns and other injuries. If you want to support our four-legged friends, please consider donating here.
Please also think of ways that you may be able to support and collaborate with Ruben Varghese, a current 11th grader at Cupertino High School in Cupertino, CA. Motivated by his passion to help others, Ruben designed an incredible website offering recommendations regarding how to best assist victims in rebuilding their lives and their communities.
Ruben’s hard work and invaluable website is a reminder that one person truly can make a difference. Students, please think about how you and your peers can use your skills and talents to provide much-needed support to the LA community. The youth we work with contribute so much good to their schools and communities every day. As you continue giving back to the world around you, please keep Los Angeles in your thoughts.
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is,
‘What are you doing for others?’”
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
To read more from our January newsletter and learn about upcoming college and summer program fairs, a terrific resource for finding summer programs, and more, please click here.
Erin Gleeson from The Forest Feast is the artist of the watercolor painting of California below.
