WHY THIS MATTERS TO ME
We’re set to have more plastic than fish in our oceans by 2050. Our fate depends on the health of the ocean.
While there are a bunch of programs to help clean the ocean and teach people to stop using plastic, I liked The Ocean Foundation because its initiatives approach the root of our plastic problems for more long-term solutions. They’re pursuing legislation that requires plastic producers to reeingineer their plastic on a molecular level to be more safe, redesign it for better biodegradation, and reduce production altogether. The Blue Resilience Initiative equips coastal infrastructures with tools and policy frameworks to restore and conserve their ecoysytems. They're even creating opporunities for wildlife field research to help prepare the next generation of scientists for careers in wildlife conservation!
One of my favorite memories is floating with this crazy coral in 1000 shades of purple off the coast of Uluwatu. Times like that make me realize how spectacular Earth is, and how pleasant life is when I stop to enjoy it. I hope I can bring kids into a safe world where they can enjoy moments like that, too... but we have a LOT of work to do for that to happen.
WHY THIS MATTERS TO ME
There’s something about surrounding yourself with a mishmash of people and cultures that makes me feel both more in tune with myself and more part of something bigger (add music and a dance floor for exponential effect).
Building Black Bedstuy raises funds to support black-owned businesses in order to protect and uplift the black community in BedStuy. Bed Stuy became one of the strongest communities for the black population of NYC after being displaced for the entire history of NYC - from being forced to give up property in Seneca Village (and thus the right to vote) to being priced out of Harlem, but is now under threat of gentrification more than ever before thanks to the disproportionate affect COVID has had on small black businesses.
NYC Nightlife United is an emergency fund that provides relief to shuttered cultural spaces (primarily minority and LGBTQ-owned) that are affected by COVID-19. Nightlife in NY plays a huge role in the city’s identity and culture, especially because many of these venues sprung up organically as necessary safe spaces for marginalized groups.
WHY THIS MATTERS TO ME
UCLArts and Healings’ mission is to transform lives through creative expression by integrating the innate benefits of the arts with mental health practices for self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. Ever heard of poetry therapy, or contemporary drum circles as a way to expres emotion? Me neither, but it actually sounds genius.
Why this resonates with me Volterre was the result of becoming inspired by other people’s creativity around the world and wanting to express something myself - but it wasn’t until COVID hit that I really understood creativity as a source of happiness and mental clarity. Realizing I that I have an enless supply that comes from within has been… huge. Also, UCLA holds a special place in my heart (art camp < 3)