Charity Social Chicago

Happy, Healthy and Hydrated

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:28:00 -0400

It’s 5:45am and my alarm goes off. Absolutely exhausted after having gone to sleep just four hours prior, leaving my bed was the last thing I wanted to do. But then I remembered I was working for Ground Control, and that I needed to be on my A-game for the next 16 hours.

Arriving at around 7:30am on Friday, the first thing my two friends and I see as we arrive at Citi Field in Flushing, New York, is a gigantic ferris wheel containing thousands of LED lights. Entering the venue both nervous and excited to experience EDC NY for the first time, we finally meet Laura Newton, the founder of Ground Control. Laura came up with the idea in 2011, and the team’s mission is to maintain that everyone is “happy, healthy and hydrated.” Ground Control was a response to the unfortunate death that occurred at LA Coliseum back in June 2010. Our job was not only to hand out free water bottles, but also to simply let guests know that we are there to help by performing acts of kindness. We were given purple tank tops printed with “Ground Control” and the Insomniac logo that distinguished us from the crowd, and about 50 determined, young individuals were split into 11 groups among 3 zones. Each group was assigned a leader that was given a walkie talkie in order to communicate with the “base tent” in the event of an emergency. Things are already starting to seem a bit intense, but little do I know that I will be working in the rehab tent all day.

At about noon, my group was assigned to Zone 1, where Kineticfield was located. Rudee had just started spinning, and his set truly made handing out water bottles so much more fun than it could have been. Dancing to the beat while being filmed, I was on the lookout for people that looked like they were rolling, dehydrated, or could simply use a free bottle of water. Although it was still very early, my group and I already began to spot partiers that give EDM the negative connotation of drugs and raving that most fans have come to despise. One girl that could barely sit up straight was clearly rolling hard, and when offered a water bottle, she kindly refused. It turned out that same girl would show up at the medical tent I was volunteering at, later that day.

Working at the Rehab Tent was an interesting experience, to say the least. Those that were brought in were retrieved by medical staff that manned the festival, who worked very efficiently to find those that needed medical attention. Most that were wheel-chaired in were drinking underage, and they clearly could not hold their liquor by the number of heads hanging over garbage bags. Then, of course, were girls and guys that couldn’t function because this was likely the first time in their lives that they had ever taken Molly. I’ll never forget the girl who came in smiling as if she was surrounded by angels, and never stopped smiling for the remainder of her time in the rehab tent. At least one person was having a positive experience.

It only started to become slightly unpleasant when seriously altered patrons were brought in later that evening. Supposedly one guest had a seizure, whereas others were so far gone that there was no other alternative than to transport them to the hospital. Not to mention the “combative” guys (and one verbally abusive girl) and the fact that virtually everyone around me was attached to an IV and was either passed out or vomiting in a trash bag. Some, like the two girls in my group, find the medical field fascinating. For others, like me, it’s not exactly my first preference.

At the end of the day, I have no regrets. Before Ground Control, I had never volunteered at a music festival before. Sure, it was great to go to EDC NY for free, in addition to the fact that the catered food they gave us was surprisingly much better than I expected. I appreciated the opportunity of working while seeing some of my favorite DJs simultaneously, and being part of a community that shares a love for the music. But more importantly, I met many new people that dedicated themselves to the arduous duties that were expected of them—to save lives. I left Citi Field that night knowing that I helped people, regardless of how little or how much. My group and I had accomplished a lot, from reconnecting lost guests with their friends to making sure that those who needed medical attention, were given proper care. This type of volunteering was beyond anything I’d done before, and I would definitely recommend it for those who haven’t had this experience. The perks of knowing that you saved at least one person’s life in sixteen hours is extremely rewarding, and I know that I’ll be doing it all over again next year.

Dressing up for Prom

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:07:00 -0400

Prom is one of the most memorable nights, whether good or bad, for high school students. Since the hard economic times, there are many girls that are unable to afford a dress for the night, but WGIRLS has been able to help those in need. Project G.L.A.M., which stands for Granting Lasting Amazing Memories, provides prom dresses and accompanying accessories for these underprivileged girls.

Through the help of numerous generous individuals, WGIRLS collects donations of gently worn or brand new dresses that are then distributed to students in need. Project G.L.A.M. has aided people across the country and hosts events for handing out dress.

They recently held one of these events and donated a record number of more than 1,500 dresses. Emerging teen pop sensation Brittany Smooch teamed up with the organization this year along with WGIRLS President Amy Heller and New York based designer Shelli Segal to accomplish their goal.

People can donate their gently used or new dresses by bringing or mailing them to one of WGIRLS drop-off locations, found here. Sometimes it is hard to get rid of a favorite dress, but individuals can also make pledges through WGIRLS’ website.

“With the economy today, many of our students are not thinking about attending prom because of the cost. After receiving a dress this past Saturday, attending prom went from being a dream into a reality,” stated Kathy Kong, the Community Coordinator at The High School of Sports Management at Lafayette Educational Complex in New York.

WGIRLS was established in 2010 and since then has helped thousands of girls and have fulfilled their mission of giving support and resources to underprivileged women and girls in need throughout the world.

Every student should have the opportunity to attend prom and people have a chance to put a smile on a young women’s face and creating lasting memories as they make their high school rite of passage.

We Are All Boston

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:03:00 -0400

In the wake of the September 11th attacks, New Yorkers felt solidarity, knowing that the whole country was standing by our sides. It is under the unfortunate circumstances of Monday’s tragic events at the Boston Marathon, appropriately held on Patriot’s Day that we once again witnessed the unwavering strength of the American people and the support offered, without a second thought, to our fellow citizens. The sense of unity felt by Americans is unique and transcends our differences in race, creed, and religion just as the Boston patriots intended.

This senseless act of violence, which took the lives of three and injured almost two hundred at what was meant to be a joyous occasion is absolutely heart-wrenching. There is anger and frustration but there is also an insurmountable sense of hope even in moments tarnished by tragedy. Comedian Patton Oswalt ended his statement by saying, “when you spot violence, or bigotry, or intolerance or fear or just garden-variety misogyny, hatred, or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, ‘The good outnumber you, and we always will.’”

It is with this in mind that Joonbug offers a heartfelt thank you to the brave men and women of the marathon, runners and spectators, who did not flee but stayed to help those injured around them, the first responders whether it was Massachusetts National Guardsmen, EMS workers, Boston police or firefighters, who put the needs of those they serve before their own, and the countless doctors and nurses given the unthinkable task of caring for those injured in the explosions. Our hearts, minds, and most of all, our support is with the Boston Marathon victims, their families, and the citizens of Boston. From this moment and onward into the future, Joonbug celebrates your city, your patriotic history, and in honor of your loss we continue on with a sense of normalcy to show that even in the aftermath of an inconceivable event, the American people will carry on through the darkness.

United with Boston,

The Joonbug Team

Looking for the Helpers

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:33:15 -0400

As the tragic events of the Boston Marathon Explosion unfolded, people throughout the country were mesmerized in front of their TVs and computers wanting to know “why and how did this happen?” Out of all the pain and despair that happened on April 15th, there is one aspect that brings light to the day’s dark tragedy…the helpers and rescue workers.

A quote from Fred Rogers aka Mr. Rogers went viral as the day progressed, which states:
“When I was a young boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers—so many caring people in this world.”

Whether it was the first responders or the average citizen rushing to do what they can to help the victims, it gave Americans a warm feeling that even in the darkest hour there is a light that leads us to a brighter place. Maybe it is just human instinct to aid those in need, but no matter what terrorist attempt to do, they cannot, and will not, take away our desire to help one another in need.

Reports surfaced that as the unharmed runners crossed the finished line, they continued running to Massachusetts General Hospital to donate blood, because they knew there were hundreds of people in need.

Jared Keller, Director of Social Media with Bloomberg News, reported how people were helping each other in his blog, Who I Am. “Runners offered up their jackets to keep each other warm, two Lutheran ministers were strolling up Commonwealth Avenue bibles in hand, offering comfort where it was needed, after the two explosions the first thing people did was run towards the site,” he states in a post.

People that are not in Boston have still showed their support and care through making donation to the American Red Cross, where funds will go to assist victims and their families.

As Boston continues to clean-up and information about who planned and followed through with the attack is unveiled, it has shown the resilience of not only Boston but of the entire country. No attack will stop us from helping each other, and just look for the helpers in the times of need.

This week’s Do-Gooder section is not spotlighting one individual, but numerous people that have and continue to help the victims of the Boston Marathon Explosion.

Seeing Clear and Doing Good

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:13:38 -0400

Eyewear has come a long way from what our grandparents would wear, it can be a signature piece to someone's style and wardobe. However, fashionable frames and lens can be expensive and overly priced.

Warby Parker has transformed the concept of eyewear into giving consumers stylish eyewear at affordable prices. Frames with prescription lens are normally $95 and can be purchased online or at their numberous showrooms. In addition, Warby Parker has embraced the one-for-one concept and is helping people through the world see clearer, known as Buy a Pair, Give a Pair.

When someone purchases a pair of glasses form Warby Parker, the company provides funding or gives glasses to non-profit organizations like Vision Spring, which gives eyewear to people in need. There are almost 1 billion people worldwide that do not have access to eyewear, which equals 15% of the world's population. Warby Parker and non-profit organizations have recognized that having access to glasses can increase a person's productivity by 20% and lead to opportunities that will better themselves and their families. Since its recent founding, Warby Parker has distributed over 250,000 pairs of glasses.

Not only is the company known for supporting people in need, but it is also one of the only eyewear companies that is completely carbon-neutral. According to Warby Parker, the company is constantly monitoring their carbon emissions, through frame production and shipping the items, and purchases carbon offsets to encourage eco-friendly innovations.

Warby Parker recently opened their 2,000 square foot flagship location in SoHo (121 Greene Street).

The flagship location carries all of different style of frames for men and women. To shop online, go to there website.

Handbags for Lupus

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:38:47 -0400

New York fashion leaders and trendsetters came out to support the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation's 5th Annual New York Bag Ladies Luncheon. Over 300 people attended the luncheon on April 11th at The Plaza Hotel and raised over $300,000 for the foundation. The fashion industry donated over 150 handbags from 50 top designer brands, including Chanel, Hermes, and Stella McCartney. Attendees placed bids on the bags through a silent auctions, the proceeds from the bids then went toward the foundation's mission of funding Lupus research and helping patients.

"Like many in this room, I have been involved in this marvelous fundraising luncheon since its inception. I am here each year on behalf of all the magnificent women with lupus who wage an unimaginable battle against this devastating disease affecting not only the bodies of women, but as often, their spirits," stated opera legend Jessye Norman.

At the event Deborah McKeever, the President and COO of Executive Health Exams International, was recognized for helping to spread awareness of lupus through her Rockefeller Center Window Campaign. "Our goal is to help groups build awareness of diseases like lupus that are not very well-known but warrant public attention," she explained.

Lupus is a serious and difficult to diagnose autoimmune disease that impacts more than 1.5 million Americans, and 9 out of 10 are women with the illness. Lupus creates antibodies within the immune system that attacks a person's organs and cells. The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation was established over 40 years ago and provides patient services, educational programs, public awareness, and funding for lupus research.

"We thank everyone here today and every designer who generously donated handbags holding so much promise for lupus patients," stated Executive Director Margaret Dowd.

Leonard Lauder Lends the MET a Modern Art Makeover

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 16:31:00 -0400

The Metropolitan Museum of Art just received a modern art makeover after cosmetics mogul Leonard Lauder pledged to donate a collection of 78 cubist paintings to the famous museum. His collection has an estimated worth said to top one billion dollars.

This generous donation will certainly help alter the museum’s reputation. According to MET Director and CEO Thomas Campbell this donation will not only rival the MoMA’s modern art collection but it will also make The Metropolitan Museum one of the biggest hotspots for Cubist art in the world.

The 80-year old Esteé Lauder heir said that the donation is for "the people who live and work in New York and those from around the world who come to visit our great arts institutions." Among the 78 paintings being donated, 33 are by Pablo Picasso. In addition to these works, there are 17 by Georges Braque, 14 by Juan Gris, and 14 by Fernand Leger. Campbell describes Lauder's donation to the museum as “transformational.” In response to his donation, the MET is planning on building the Leonard A. Lauder Research Center for Modern Art.

Making A Difference With Jesse Cole

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:00:00 -0400

Women everywhere love wearing the chic, sophisticated, and edgy clothing that Haute Hippie has to offer; because it makes them feel great about themselves. However, many may be unaware that Haute Hippie CEO Jesse Cole brings that same feeling to children and families visiting the Ronald McDonald House in Manhattan, as the Chairman of the Board of Associates.

Growing up on East End Avenue, Cole passed the Ronald McDonald House everyday and noticed the children were different, and was intrigued to find out why. Never acting on that instinct until one day Cole was airlifted to the hospital after a bad lacrosse injury. He shared the hospital with another young man, named David from Virginia, who was going to have a cancerous tumor removed from his leg.

Becoming closer and creating a bond, both Cole and David had surgery on the same day. Cole’s surgery was a success, unfortunately they discovered the cancer had spread through David’s leg and had to amputee. David and his mother realized that the recovery process was going to be extensive and they had to stay in New York longer than expected. They turned to the Ronald McDonald House for help and were welcomed to stay there.

“Stanley Shopkorn invited me to attend a big gala benefiting the Ronald McDonald House,” stated Cole. Shopkorn is currently the Chairman of the Board of Officers of the foundation. As the night progress Cole was touched about how the foundation impacted the lives of sick children and families.

“I wanted to get involved and give it my all,” stated Cole. “One day I went to tour the house and it was a humanizing experience,” he continued. There are families that come from all around the world and everyone was very welcoming. After leaving the house Cole knew he wanted to become involved with the foundation and follow their mission.

For the past 35 years the Ronald McDonald House New York has become a home-away-from-home for children with cancer and their families while they receive treatment at a New York hospital. To date they have helped over 30,000 families. Wanting to make an impact on the foundation, Cole spearheaded the formation of a new board of young philanthropists. Starting with just five members, Cole enacted a few initiatives for new board members.

He explained that members would have to give or get $10,000 for the foundation, meaning they would have to raise that amount or donate it personally. Second, he explained that every member has to tour the house and see where the children sleep, how they live, meet the staff and children. Lastly, he required all members meet with 2 or 3 workers from the house, because as Cole states, “they are really incredible people.”

Making a mark on the New York charity scene, the new board hosted their first event at Apella in October. Rising over $300,000 and over 350 attendees, the Masquerade Ball was a huge success and Cole explains that they will plan to have it again this year.

The Ronald McDonald House was not Cole’s first philanthropic venture. “I worked with Katie Schwab for three years on the Robin Hood Foundation and enjoyed working and helping the less fortunate,” Cole said.

As part of the Robin Hood Foundation, he helped host dinner parties at soup kitchens for the people. “We would have dinner theme dinners and make all the people feel welcomed,” stated Cole. He recalled one of the evenings when the themes was A Night at the Oscars. There was a red carpet as people were entering they had they pictures taken and they were treated with first class service. Even though he continues to work with this foundation, he wanted to make a direct change and help people and he decided to work with the Ronald McDonald House.

For 2013 Cole’s ambitions and goals for the Board of Associates is to expand to 50 members and raise a million dollars for the foundation. “I want to be able to reach out to every family in need that comes to New York City that do not have the money and can stay at the Ronald McDonald House,” stated Cole.

Visiting the house on a weekly basis Cole explains that the job is never done because cancer is not cured and children and families need our help.

A Sweet Way to Help Cure Parkinson’s

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:15:42 -0400

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, the Michael J. Fox Foundation has partnered with the world famous Magnolia Bakery to create a special one-of-kind Michael J. Fox Foundation cupcake. Currently being sold online and at Magnolia Bakery locations, a portion of the sale will benefit the foundation.

For the dessert lovers this delectable cupcake is topped with white vanilla butter cream frosting, orange sprinkles and a white chocolate disc with the foundation’s logo. Whether you like vanilla or chocolate cake, Magnolia Bakery has the customer covered. The cupcake sells for $3.75 with $1.75 of the proceeds going to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Parkinson's Disease is a medical condition that affects the brains and causes the patient to shake and have trouble walking and making movements. The Michael J. Fox Foundation strives to find a cure for this illness through constantly funding research projects that will lead to a cure or treatments for people. The foundation's namesake, actor Michael J. Fox, was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1991 and has since become a spokesperson for the debilitating disease after Fox revealed to the public his condition in 1998.

According to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, there are as many as 1 million Americans living with Parkinson’s. Nearly 60,000 Americans are diagnosed every year, and thousands go undetected. Throughout the world there is an estimated 10 million people that have Parkinson’s Disease.

The cupcake is on sale for the whole month of April. For nationwide shipping check out Magnolia's website.

If you'd like to donate to help find a cure for Parkinson's Disease, click here.

Making a Greener Footprint

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:13:00 -0400

Breaking the normal routine and starting to think eco-friendly might be difficult to do. In a society where there is constant traveling in cars and planes, the amount of pollution the average individual produces daily is alarming. However, for people that find themselves reducing as much as they can but are still polluting, they can get involved with CarbonFund.org.

CarbonFund is a non-profit organization that aims to tackle global warming by making it affordable for individuals and businesses to reduce and offset their impact on the environment. People can donate to the foundation, whose goals are to increase climate change education and increase carbon offsets and reductions.

As people support CarbonFund they are also supporting third party programs that involve creating renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reforestation. One project that benefits from donation includes the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley Reforestation Initiative, which plans to restore the 22 million acres of forest in the area.

The website provides individuals with different options of how to donate. There are preset options or people can calculate the pollution they create and decide how much they would like to offset. Partnering with JetBlue Airways, people can offset their carbon footprint by using the flight calculator to see how much pollution has been created while traveling.

While JetBlue has created a new initiative, Jetting to Green, which has become a leader in the airline industry of become environmentally responsible. Even with their new initiative there is still pollution that is created with the flights. For someone making a one way trip to New York’s JFK to Los Angeles’ LAX there are 2.41 tons of CO_² produced, which creates an offset cost of $24.14. JetBlue is not the only company that has partnered with CarbonFund; others include Amtrak, Volkswagen, LG, and other notable brands.

For people that are finding it difficult to take the green challenge and reduce their pollution, CarbonFund offers the chance to change that, and create a sustainable earth and a greener footprint.