Kayla Clausen is one of our ambassadors from the United States working extremely hard to spread the word and make a difference. We are so grateful to have her represent us this year! Kayla has done an outstanding job getting her community involved and we asked her to blog about some of her events and talk a bit about what she is doing. If you feel a bit sluggish after reading about Kayla don't worry, we did too!
In July, 2008 I traveled to Vietnam with GVN and had the experience of my life. While having an amazing experience with the children, volunteers, and staff I learned first-hand that people can make a difference in the world, no matter how big or small. When I returned to the U.S. I wanted to continue having that impact. Eat So They Can gives me that opportunity- and all from the comfort of my home!
This will be my third year as an Eat So They Can host and my first year as an ambassador. In August I will begin my master’s degree in Global Leadership and I just accepted a job with my local chapter of The American Red Cross. I have to admit, the toughest part of being an ambassador is finding the time to get everything done, but for anyone who feels that they are ‘too busy’ to host an event- you’re selling yourself short! I have found that if you are willing to put in even just a little bit of time it really goes a LONG way! There are so many people you will encounter who support not only the cause but also your dedication. You will be amazed to see how much support you get if you are willing to get involved. And really, that’s what this event is all about- inspiring others to play a part in a global movement.
I currently live in Kentucky but I am originally from California. You may think that it is impossible to set up events in other parts of the world, but let me tell you it CAN be done. Utilize your connections- no matter where they are! Many of you might think that this is something that is too big to take on alone- it is! You need support. I am not going at this alone and neither should you. I am working to get family members, friends, businesses, restaurants, students and more involved. The more involvement the better. Just remember that no one expects you to do it all. So just how do I plan to raise $20,000? With the help of countless others!
For those of you who are needing a little inspiration, here are some events that I have set up:
I am working with a student organization I was a member of in college, Omega Phi Alpha. Every member of the group will be helping with the cause. Together we are hosting meals in the community with other groups on campus, inviting other student groups and Omega Phi Alpha chapters to host their own events, utilizing fundraising sales by selling see’s candy bars and candles, setting up proceed nights at local restaurants, and working with the residence halls on campus. I am also working closely with family and friends back home in CA. One family member is creating and selling a benefit calendar. Another is hosting a poker tournament. Another is hosting a pancake breakfast.
As you can see- the possibilities are endless! All it takes is a little creativity and a lot of dedication and your efforts can turn into something amazing! I’m not saying it’s going to be easy- there are times when I am overwhelmed and frustrated- but what I AM saying is that in the end it will be WELL worth your time! So when nothing seems to be going right, just think of all those women and children that you are going to have a direct impact on and remind yourself to “be the change you wish to see in the world.”
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