It's Never Too Late to Make an Impact

I’ll admit that I grew up slightly spoiled. Okay, a lot. My mother tells me that because she grew up with nothing, she wanted me and my sister to never want for anything in this world. Because of this, I had a childhood full of summer vacations to Hilton Head, Disneyland, a country club membership, concert tickets, tennis camp, and many nights out to dinner at great restaurants.??I was living fancy-free and without a care.

When I went to college, it was apparent how differently I grew up than the girls with whom I became friends. I had one roommate who was resentful and did not try to hide the fact. She had to work to afford her tuition and books, and I could call my parents if I ran out of money. Living with her made me realize that not everyone grew up with my lifestyle.

?Once I got my feet on the ground after graduation, I became involved with young professional organizations here in Cincinnati. Through these organizations, I learned how impactful I could be in making a change. Minor things made me feel good, from small donations to working in a soup kitchen to organizing an entire fundraiser. My guilt for having a blessed childhood dissipated as I realized that, as an adult, I had every opportunity to give back.

Time. Talent. Treasure.

Well into my adulthood, I have encountered many people who give back differently (and others who have yet to discover how essential it is to help). One day I can afford to give back monetarily in a way that will make a significant impact, but for now, I enjoy giving back through time and treasure. And it’s not like I have much time to give, but I make time for giving back because it’s something I enjoy. My talent? I learn quickly and can put together raffle basket donations, organize a food truck rally with 10k+ guests, and create marketing materials and a social media action plan for any event.?

I invite you to investigate ways that you can give back. Start small.

Start in your community. Get involved with things that interest you. Whatever way you can give back and to whomever you can give back to, I dare you to try and deny that magical feeling that comes over you as you realize the impact you are making.??