Volunteering and charitable work has always been something I have enjoyed. Although I have volunteered my time and raised funds for a number of causes, this is the first time I am supporting a cause I am especially passionate about, as I have been affected by violence in my life on multiple occasions.

I found A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) while searching for a new volunteer opportunity specifically supporting survivors of domestic, relationship, and/or sexual violence. It was a match made in heaven! AWBW had posted a need for a volunteer to lead and liaise with their team in the 2014 Long Beach Marathon. Being a longtime runner and having participated in a handful of races, I contacted AWBW right away.

After meeting with Lindsay, AWBW’s Event & Volunteer Coordinator, and learning more about their healing art programs and workshops, my connection to AWBW grew much deeper. There was a time when I thought I was worthless and couldn’t even fathom the idea of having a successful career. This way of thinking ultimately led to my dropping out of college. Soon after, I enrolled into and subsequently graduated from an art school where I discovered my strengths, my worth, and a confidence I never knew existed through the art of filmmaking. It is truly amazing how much you can uncover about yourself through the creative process. This is why I choose to lead and run for Team AWBW.

The cause for which I run stands above my pace per mile or my finish time. I run for A Window Between Worlds, and I run for all individuals impacted by violence. My personal fundraising goal was $500 and I exceeded it raising $1,100.

I’m also excited to join the I CAN WE CAN community through the socially engaged art project created by AWBW that anyone can be part of by pledging to end abuse. Once I thought I’d never amount to anything. Now I proudly pledge that I CAN succeed.