Giving Back in Bali
Service is at the core of who I am. Giving back feeds my soul. Yes, it was one of my top core values. As you read this, I am realizing one of my dreams. I am in Bali with a group of women refurbishing libraries for The World Is Just A Book Away, a non-profit organization dear to my heart.
Once upon a time, in the bustling city of Los Angeles, I lived a determined life filled with meaningful connections and fed off the desire to help people.
With a thriving career and a heart full of compassion, I yearned to give back to communities. Okay, well, maybe this isn’t a “once upon a time” fairytale story that we’re used to, but still who I AM TODAY, I’m emphasizing the importance of giving back. After all, success is not merely about profit, but most importantly, it’s about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The World is Just a Book Away is a nonprofit organization close to my heart. Their mission is to promote literacy, education, and health by developing libraries that house special programs to support the growth and development of communities.
I’ve served on the board at WIJABA for almost 20 years as marketing chair. Working alongside the founder (and colleague/friend from USC - Go Trojans), Dr. James Owens, has been rewarding and inspiring. James fully embodies WIJABA’s mission to build leadership, environmental consciousness, and community connection. It is his life's purpose to servce the children in these underserved communities in Indonesia, Mexico and Los Angeles.
Starting today, EmpowHer Purpose and WIJABA have teamed up to organize a month-long fundraiser to give back to the children. How will we do this? By donating any amount to support their commitment to building hope for the future of the children they serve through literacy, leadership and education. As you know, giving back ties directly to one of my core values, service.
This fundraiser and WIJABA hold a special significance for me because one of the first libraries was established in Bali, creating a full circle moment for me in my life. I can recall when I first became involved with the organization I wanted so badly to visit Indonesia to dedicate my time directly. This is the thing in life all things can happen, just not always all at once, but do not give up hope on your dreams. Keep believing as I did. I am so honored and happy to be here with the children today as are my own children as they too have been involved since the inception of the organization through small and larger events alike and have work with the children through Zoom.
Today, Indonesia is the site of nearly 80 WIJABAlibraries, three mobile libraries, one horse library, a student librarian program, an art program, a storytelling program, and an environmental education program in partnership with Jane Goodall's Roots & Shoot. Isn’t that amazing?! We can think about all the work and love that has gone into each of their libraries and programs.
However, I also want to emphasize the work that can still be done in Indonesia and worldwide.
This week I celebrate my own life and birth-day it is of significant meaning to me to give back to others, to give to myself. As I serve you through the years will you please consider giving from your heart to the children of WIJABA? With a little effort we can create a big impact for them. Let's serve together to create more love in the world! Please consider making a contribution of any level to The World is Just a Book Away. It will warm my heart and give to your soul.
Your support will allow us to continue the mission of bringing books, education, and hope to underserved communities around the globe. Together, we can open doors to a world of knowledge for those who need it most, making an impact on the lives of countless children and adults. Join us in making the world a better place, one book at a time, one step closer to “...and they lived happily ever after.”
Sending you love from Indonesia and heart-felt hello from the children of WIJABA. Check my stories on Instagram today to see our work in action. It will always serve you to serve others.
Be Well. Do Well.
All my best,
Looking for inspiration and motivation? My suggestion is for you to tap into these entertaining and enlightening interview.
To begin listen in on James' episode down below for an insightful interview with me.
Dr. James Owen, Founder of The World Is Just A Book Away, Professor at USC, and TED Coach. This episode is extra special because it's not just about business; it's about celebrating our multi-dimensional friendship that's spanned decades and witnessed our many career evolutions.
This week, meet Sharon Roemmel, Founder of Practically Enlightened You, a yogini, coach, and spiritual teacher. We discuss spirituality, Akashic Records, balance between Yin and Yang energies, clarity, and the art of listening. Join our MembHership to learn from experts like Sharon.
Josh Borris is an architect, designer, builder, and real estate broker. Together, we discuss the importance of good communication, fostering meaningful relationships, and the role of core values, community, and personal growth in shaping one's life.
Feel free to subscribe, leave a review, and listen to Opportunity Knocks here.
We appreciate all our extraordinary entrepreneurs that make Opportunity Knocks a success. Interested in being interviewed? Contact Info@EmpowHerLA.com. Interested in featuring your brand? Contact Info@EmpowHerLA.com for more information on our affiliate advertising program!
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