To Act or Not to Act

To Act or Not to Act, that is the question! Taking action can deter people from voicing their opinions and standing up for what's right.  Sometimes people just feel that problems will fix themselves if they don't raise their voice.  However, to act is the most beneficial humanitarian act that a person can do to improve the lives of others! I am very passionate about many situations and issues around the world; I enjoy taking action and improving the lives of others around the world.  Although, at times, I feel that I am unable and powerless to make a difference with my actions so the negativity overcomes the joy of taking action.  But through motivation and inspiration, those negative thoughts are turned into positives, and action is taken!

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Atlantic coast of North America, especially New Orleans and Louisiana. I was saddened by the devastation that I saw and I had an idea to help those students of school closures who were in shelters and had no schools to attend or school supplies to use. My idea to help those in need led to a plan for a school supply drive and the creation of “Kids2Kids”. My concern was that there were thousands of displaced students but there was only one of me. Initially, my plan involved just my school. However, I soon realized I needed a larger audience. With the support of my teachers, my Head Master, and my mom I approached the Halton Board of Education, 3 large corporations and a national charity.  It was important for everyone to understand they could each make a difference...including myself!  I was successful in gaining each of their support. I collected school supplies organized by grade, and corporations donated personal hygiene products and non perishable food products. Each student who donated an item also wrote a personal note of encouragement. Teams were organized to pack supply sacs, which contained the school supplies, the food products, and a personal note. A local business aided with the transportation of the sacs and the Salvation Army assisted with the clearance of customs. My initial sadness led to an idea, my idea led to a plan. During the implementation of my plan I encountered numerous road blocks and obstacles and there were many times I felt discouraged and defeated.  For example, when our shipment was halted at the border based on school supplies not covered by NAFTA.  Although I was only 11 years old I was determined that my idea to help could not be ignored or prevented.  I learned that working as a team and not being afraid to ask for assistance were the key elements of success. Each obstacle I encountered resulted in a resolution.  My resolution involved asking for help which led to the success of providing over 2000 students school supplies in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Choosing to act is one of the most rewarding decisions someone can make; it not only improves your confidence which shows that you are capable of taking action, but it improves the lives of others impacted by your actions around the world!