I remember a former character from the chapter titled The Dumpster Fire of Online Dating, asking me why I volunteered. At the time, I was still a market VP of operations and multi-campus hospital CEO, as well as raising AJ as a single mom, flying to Houston with my father for cancer treatment, and a multitude of other responsibilities. To him, serving on several non-profit boards seemed like the thing to cut back on. He said it’s not like you’re paid for it and don’t have the time. I did my damndest to explain that the world would be far worse off if people didn’t take an interest and step up to volunteer for things. His mind remained, and I had to agree to disagree on the subject to avoid the throat punch I was involuntarily gearing up to provide.
Although I am not on the board, the cause that I support and feel called to be a part of is Paso Del Norte’s Center of Hope. Yes, one of my closest friends is the executive director of the organization (according to AJ, she “runs the human trafficking business”), but it is the challenging and vital work they do that calls to me.
Their Mission: To lead a community-wide response to eradicate human trafficking and its effects in our region through advocacy, training, direct services, and collaboration.
I recently attended their annual Masquerade ball fundraiser, where we heard directly from a survivor about her experience being trafficked and the incredible importance of the work being done by this organization. It was a magical evening. It is a mix of celebrating all that’s been accomplished, education on the realities of what this organization sees and provides, and a call to action for those in attendance. The fact that the vast majority of the population PDN-COH sees impacted by trafficking and sexual exploitation are minors, just kids, adds to the horror of what Nicole and her team are fighting against daily. These amazing souls carry “crisis phones” and are always ready.
The bottom line is if not us, then whom? If we don’t support these causes and the work being done to make our world a better place, then who will? You can donate your time, money, or support. You can even donate an item or experience for their auctions. A stay at my Ruidoso cabin is always on their list! If you’re looking for a cause to support, this one is most certainly worthy!! Find information here….
