Community service has been a pillar of my life since age eight. Below are three organizations that have helped shape the person I am today. They have changed the way I look at life and the way I choose to live my life. The people I’ve encountered throughout these journeys are the fuel that has led to the fire that is co-mads.
As Program Manager, I had been able to see first-hand the impact that Best Buddies has on the lives of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. I’ve had parents write me letters, call, and give me hugs to thank me for giving their child the opportunity to have friends. Imagine having to thank someone for helping their child be included and accepted by their peers…
I was recognized as Program Manager of the Year in 2016. This is one of the proudest achievement of my professional life.
Very few experiences have impacted my life the way being a mentor to Ahmed had. DREAM allows Ahmed to be a child, to be playful, to let loose, to learn that there is more to life than the struggles his family faces as refugees living in an affordable housing community in America. We give these children experiences they could never have had without our program. We open their eyes to new cultures, different ideas, help them create goals and give them the resources they need to succeed.
While in college, I traveled to Lima, Peru to help set up free medical clinics in Pamplona Alta. I feel that the word ‘impoverished’ is an understatement when it comes to describing this community. I educated women on the importance of cervical cancer screenings, as it is the number one cause of death amongst Peruvian women. Imagine being subject to such invasive testing after receiving little to no healthcare in the past.
If only you could’ve felt the warmness and gratitude these people showered us with, despite their misfortunes, it would surely allow you to look on your life and your opportunities in a way that would change you on a molecular level. These are the types of experiences co-mads hopes to bring you face to face with.
If you are looking to learn more about these organizations and/or how to become involved as a volunteer, sponsor, etc. please reach out to me directly, gabby@co-mads.com. I would love to connect you.
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