30 Deeds, 30 Days | home

Deed 30, Day 30: American Cancer Society

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 04:25:22 -0400

Day 30 has arrived! What a month this has been! I am so grateful to have volunteered for some of the most extraordinary (another word) organizations. Although I will miss going to volunteer everyday, I am looking forward to getting back into a regular routine. Without a doubt I have learned that making time for volunteering is possible! It’s more than possible. It’s a choice and we choose how we want to spend our time. I hope that if you’ve been following along and decide to reach out to an organization that is close to your heart or found one that piques your interest, you will carve out a schedule that works for you. I will post another blog shortly just about what I’ve learned and some things to keep in mind when it comes to volunteerism.

I wanted to end “30 Deeds, 30 Days” with an organization that is special to me. As I’ve mentioned before, my family has been touched by cancer as many, many other friends and family I know have as well, which is why I spent the afternoon at Hope Lodge, part of The American Cancer Society. Since Jason Derulo was in town to appear on Regis and Kelly and to perform a concert that night, I convinced him to join me for the day.

I was surprised to find out that many people don’t know about The Hope Lodge but are familiar with the American Cancer Society. There are 30 Hope Lodges across the United States and I got to visit NYC Location. Our volunteer assignment was to talk with some of the guests to learn more about their story. Essentially we were there to listen, because sometimes it’s good to share your story to someone who doesn’t already know it.

Hope Lodge New York City is a “home away from home” for people being treated with advanced cancer. There are two criteria in order to stay. First, you must actively be receiving treatment. Second, you must live at least 100 miles away. One of the best parts about Hope Lodge New York City is that it’s FREE.

If you watch my video, you will meet a remarkable young woman named Paola. Her story has inspired both Jason and me. To sit down and talk with a woman who has experienced so much pain in her young life, from being diagnosed with cancer as well as her mother and then to see her mother lose her battle with cancer is devastating. Somehow Paola has such a positive outlook on life. She will leave you speechless.

The other thing that left me speechless and still does to this day, is watching one of the members of the camera crew that was following Jason around for the day light up a cigarette right outside the front door of the American CANCER Society. Are you kidding me? It’s bad enough that people smoke cigarettes in the first place, but come on! I politely pointed out to his producer that it’s probably not a good idea to smoke outside of the American Cancer Society. She was embarrassed and apologized. He went around the corner and continued to smoke. Hopefully he never has to use the services of the American Cancer Society and Hope Lodge.

Information about how to get involved and volunteer with the American Cancer Society or Hope Lodge can be found on www.cancer.org

-Trey

Deed 29, Day 29: Sing For Hope Art U!

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 21:46:08 -0400

Check out the video from my day at Sing For Hope’s Art U!

-Trey

Deed 28, Day 28: ASPCA

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 11:53:07 -0400

One word: puppies. Okay, so I can’t discriminate. I am an animal lover, but feel a special connection to dogs and absolutely cannot wait to adopt a puppy in early 2011. I spent a few hours at ASPCA New York City and I’ve got to be honest – it was hard to leave. What a tough job those guys have! From giving the animals the best medical care, socialization time and a comfortable “condo” style living, these animals are treated like king and queens – and they should be.

Animals aside for a minute, the people of the ASPCA were awesome!

During the tour I was really impressed by how clean everything was. If you take a look at my video, Diane even describes some of the things that the ASPCA does to make the animals feel comfortable (the floors are heated in the winter) It just goes to show you how much they care about the animals wellbeing. Some of these animals come from the worst living conditions possible, and they arrive somewhat broken, so to know they are being treated with love and respect is comforting. One of the biggest lessons I learned from this afternoon is that just by spending some time with a couple of dogs and cats (and a couple of really cute kittens) it’s a win-win for everyone. It makes a person feel great about the adoption, fostering or volunteering process.

During the socialization process, it’s important that the dogs spend some time with men. I had never really thought about or knew how many dogs are abused by their male “owners” (my wife would say parent or dad). China Doll, a very sweet dog, was very fearful around men and it was important that I make her feel comfortable to help break that cycle. I guess she had a bad experience with a man, but after a few minutes of patting her and giving her treats, I was thrilled to see that she was beginning to come out of her shell. I can’t help but think it was my charm! Just kidding.

Whether you want to volunteer for the ASPCA or foster a pet or adopt is really up to you – there is always something to do and it’s easy to get involved. Everyone goes through a screening process and receives some training. The great news is that anyone from 16-70 can volunteer and all it takes is 8 hours a month for a 6 month commitment. I guarantee once you see these animals you will be hooked and want to help! Please visit www.aspca.org for more information.

-Trey

Deed 27, Day 27: Boys and Girls Club

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 01:04:33 -0400

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a rainy afternoon than at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County. It’s a Monday, it’s the final week of “30 Deeds, 30 Days” (at least in the 30 consecutive days of volunteering, but there’s more work to follow) and did I mention it was raining? Once again I was quickly reminded how powerful the present moment can be. No matter how tired I am or how many things I have to do at work or at home, being at an organization makes my day. The kids at The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County gave me a dose of positive energy!
The Boys & Girls Clubs all across the country are doing fantastic work in their communities. I was amazed to find out that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County has been around since 1893! They say they it’s more than a place, but a “movement” to inspire all young people; we all know how important it is to shape a child’s self-esteem at a young age. I learned from reading on their website that in 2008/2009, more than 4.2 million young people served annually through membership and community outreach. Additionally, there are 4,000 Club locations with more than 50,000 trained professional staff. Talk about a movement!
Since I’ve always heard about The Boys & Girls Clubs, I had to check them out for myself. What they do is focus on empowering young people, especially those that come from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential. Some of their programs include Character & Leadership, Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, the Arts, and Sports, Fitness & Recreation. Besides offering young kids a chance to run around and play and explore their creative side in a safe and comfortable environment, the Boys & Girls Clubs provides encouragement.

Did you know?

• 57% of alumni said the Club saved their life

• 91% of alumni are satisfied with their adult life

• 90% of alumni graduate high school

• 26% of alumni are likely to earn a college degree, the same as the general population

• Most children have their first drug, alcohol or sexual experience between the hours of 3 and 8 pm. The Boys & Girls Clubs stay open during these times, and on Saturdays, when kids need support most

As soon as I entered the Boys & Girls Club of Hudson County, I was greeted by the most respectful and energized young kids. I was so impressed with them – these kids were friendly and full of smiles. They all seemed happy to be there and enjoyed playing different games with each other. I got to spend a few hours playing basketball with them. I will say that I stayed away from helping them with their homework because I would do more harm than good!

One of my favorite moments happened when a young boy saw me playing foozeball and I asked him if he wanted to join in. He was shy and said that he had to go, so I wished him well and off he went. Later when we were playing basketball and setting up drills, my friend reappeared and came up to me and gave me a hug! He asked me if he could play basketball and he happily joined in. This brief moment brought me so much joy. In an instant, I made a connection with a young kid who is just looking to be included and supported. This is what The Boys & Girls Clubs are all about.

Membership is only $12 a year and is open to all young people between the ages of 6-18. Every club has full-time, trained youth development professionals, providing positive role models and mentors. Volunteering for The Boys & Girls Clubs can make a big difference in a young person’s life and selfishly, it can make a big difference in yours. We learn from each other and often it’s the kids that can be the best teachers. Whether your interest is in athletics, technology, the arts or any other programming skills, The Boys & Girls Clubs has a spot for you to volunteer. Please check out the site for how you can get involved: www.bgca.org

-Trey

Deed 26, Day 26: Braking The Cycle

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 12:32:48 -0400

Today was special for two reasons. I celebrated my first wedding anniversary and got to volunteer at the Braking the Cycle event to benefit The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. Despite a little drizzle, hundreds gathered together to welcome the riders home after a 285 mile bike ride beginning in Boston and finishing in New York City.

Established in 1983, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center has grown to become the largest LGBT multi-service organization on the East Coast and second largest LGBT community center in the world. The Center’s mission explains, through diverse health and wellness services, cultural activities and advocacy initiatives, the Center inspires LGBT New Yorkers at every stage of life to celebrate who they are, empower who they want to be and transform their world. I also learned from the organization’s website that each week 6,000 people visit the Center, and more than 300 groups meet there.

Ever hear of GLAAD? A couple of years ago I had reached out to them to see about starting a campaign targeted towards ending the use of the word “gay” in exchange for negative conotation. Sadly, I never heard back and I didn’t push for more information, but I was really excited to find out that GLAAD all started at the Center. At least I’ve educated a few somewhat conscious people along the way when using words that are just filled with hate and do no one any good. It’s amazing to see the look on someone’s face when you make it about them. “How would you feel if someone called you…” enough of my rant. I should also mention that AIDS activist group ACT UP also started at the Center.

I was honored to be part of such an exciting and special event. I met up with Scott, an incredibly kind staff member who showed me around and explained to me what I would be doing. I made sure the roads were blocked off, took a quick trip to get cables for the performer so that she could sing and cheered for the riders. I can only imagine how proud the riders must be of such an accomplishment. I was proud of them and it was so rewarding to see some of the family members and friends welcome the riders in. All a lot of fun. Check out my video and you’ll see for yourself.
The Center has some pretty amazing programs and they do such important work. Not only do they create awarness for for HIV and AIDS, as well as providing counseling, education, prevention and bereavement services, the Center Adult services also works towards helping people of transgender experience find support, information and community; and helping individuals deal with their anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns.
It’s super easy to get involved and I highly recommend taking a few minutes to check out their website to see what kind of resources they offer and the exciting events they have listed. www.gaycenter.org

-Trey

Deed 25, Day 25: Special Olympics

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 13:09:22 -0400

Everyone should spend a few hours outside running around a baseball diamond, playing catch and giving high fives and cups of water to a couple of hundred athletes . Fortunately for me, I did. I got to volunteer at the Special Olympics New York City Region Fall Invitational today. The weather could not have been better and the people could not have been more fun!

Athletes including the Bronx Bombers softball team, the Manhattan Wildcats softball team, the Staten Island Renegades, Brooklyn Huskies and Brooklyn Limers softball team, the Queens Mighty Tigers and the TSI New York All Stars all came together to participate in the tournament and to celebrate the first annual Global Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day.

As you may know, for more than half a century, Eunice Kennedy Shriver was the founder and lifelong advocate for the Special Olympics. She passed away in 2009 but her incredible spirit and memory lives on. It was with great pleasure that I got to announce that New York City’s Mayor Michael Bloomberg has declared September 25 as Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day! The crowd cheered loudly as I shared this news with them. It was such an honor to be able to introduce the athletes and give tribute to Eunice Kennedy Shriver.

Currently, 48,761 athletes participate in Special Olympics programs throughout the state, making it the largest program in the United States and the sixth largest in the world! Now celebrating 40 years, Special Olympics New York has been using sports as a vehicle to transform the lives of adults and children with intellectual disabilities. Offering 22 Olympic-style sports throughout the year, Special Olympics provides an inclusive environment where athletes have the opportunity to exhibit pride, strength and determination as they inspire and triumph within their given sport.

I’ve played competitive sports most of my life and have never seen sportsmanship and encouragement quite like I saw today. Every competitor truly wanted everyone else to succeed and do well. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had since beginning this adventure.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned so far is that people just want support and I am so grateful that I got the chance to support these tremendous athletes, but more importantly be in the presence of such beautiful, courageous and kind people. Hats off to them and many, many high-fives.

Want to get involved with the Special Olympics? Please visit www.specialolympics.org

-Trey

Deed 24, Day 24: Clothes Drive

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:24:50 -0400

-Trey

Deed 23, Day 23: Gilda’ Club

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 22:53:44 -0400

It’s hard to believe that today will mark the 23rd day of “30 Deeds, 30 Days.” From the beginning of this journey I set out to work with organizations that have impacted me personally. When I was twenty-two, my father passed away and my mother is a cancer survivor, but is still fighting everyday for her health. Just glancing up at the oversized calendar that hangs high in our living room, I noticed all of the organizations that are cancer-related. The American Lung Association, Ronald McDonald House of New York, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and The American Cancer Society, so when I learned about Gilda’s Club, I wanted to get involved.

Gilda’s Club New York City is a place where men, women and children living with cancer – and their families and friends – can join together to build a social and emotional support group, as a supplement to medical care – free of charge. Membership is completely free and each month, there is a list of activities that you can choose to participate in. Imagine that for a minute. A program that some say that they would not have been able to beat cancer without is totally free. The networking groups and lectures give members support and access to information about medical, legal, financial and other areas related to cancer. The workshops including art, cooking, journal writing and one of my favorites “laugh yoga” all give everyone a creative and healing outlet. All of it FREE.

One of the things I find so remarkable about Gilda’s Club is how much they understand that everyone’s grieving and healing process is different. “Noogieland” is a place where children and teens can play and have fun, but also express how they feel in a safe and comfortable environment.

Before stepping up to the big red door, I read about Gilda’s Club online, so I was familiar with them. I have quickly learned that it’s one thing to read about an organization or read about members on a screen or flip through some pages in a brochure, book or a magazine, but to talk with people face to face about what they’ve been through takes it to a whole other level. Having the chance to hug someone who could really use a hug is a feeling that is hard to describe. Often we become wrapped up in the details of the day, but it’s when you take a time out from “life,” that you’re really living, or at least that’s what I am learning through this adventure.

What amazes me about Gilda’s Club is the level of care and support. This organization truly understands that when men and women experience cancer, they don’t just experience physical changes and physical pain. As the organization claims, “From the moment of diagnosis, through treatment and beyond, the effects of cancer aren’t only physical – there is a profound emotional and social impact as well. Joining a community of people who have experienced cancer firsthand can decrease the sense of isolation and empower you to confront your fears.”

Lily Safani, CEO, kindly gave me a tour of Gilda’s Club. Walking through the rooms, it felt like being in someone’s home. Every room was as warm and comfortable as a living room. It is hard to believe that people here get angry, cry, yell and accept or battle with their pain because I could feel this intense energy of love and warmth all around me. It’s quite a powerful presence and a true testament to the kind of environment Gilda’s Club has worked so hard to establish.

After I made some phone calls to potential donors to tell them about the 15th anniversary gala on November 18, I sat down with a few of the members so that I could learn first hand about them and how Gilda’s Club has helped them. Amazingly enough, these strong women were complimenting me about my volunteer work and this process, when in reality; they are the ones who are fighting everyday. They are amazing. I’m just showing up to do my part.

Hours have passed since I left and yet the feeling of still being there with some of the members of Gilda’s Club is still very much with me. The artwork and imagery was so moving. There were a number of paintings that had such rawness to them. “Do not be afraid,” was one of the messages written at the bottom of a drawing. I hope to always be reminded and inspired by their unwavering strength and courage.

I keep thinking about how strange life can be. There’s a lot of activity happening all around us on these busy New York City Streets, but within minutes of weaving in and out of groups of people, I find myself at Gilda’s Club, invited into a world all within its own. Behind the red door, I got to talk with one of the women about how she sometimes uses one of the rooms to cry for two hours and it’s perfectly acceptable. We talked about how this is a club that no one wants to belong to, but are so thankful to have.

There were a lot of tears today, and I was told never to apologize for crying. At Gilda’s Club, these remarkable women don’t have to filter their feelings. I love how their website even says “there’s no pressure to be positive. Gilda's Club is based on respect for every person's own method of living with cancer.” Everyone needs love and support. I am so incredibly thankful for an organization like Gilda’s Club. This is one of the reasons why I started this whole “30 Deeds, 30 Days” process – to learn, to help and to foster growth and change for the good.

At the end of the evening, Lily mentioned to me how easy it is to volunteer; there is no pressure to commit to a certain number of days. I’m telling you now though, after spending some time with these women, you really start to form a bond with them and you want to be there to help them in whatever they need.

As I was about to leave, there was this woman who appeared to be on the brink of breaking down. She introduced herself to me and told me about this special room they have call the “There’s always something room.” She asked if I wanted to see it. I could tell that she needed someone new to talk to so of course I said “Yes! I would love to see it.” We walked into the cramped room which could only fit a small couch, a chair, bookshelf and table with a lamp. Like a damn that had just burst, her thoughts and emotions came flooding out. Her son has leukemia. He was fighting for his life and she had a ringside seat. She told me story after story and as I listened I saw how strong she is despite the fact that at times, I’m sure she feels weak. Her family was trying to deal but how do you come to terms with something so big and so scary a leukemia? When she found Gilda’s Club, she finally had the tools and support she and her family needed so desperately.

If you want to get involved in volunteering or if your organization wants to donate to the gala on November 18, please www.gildasclubnyc.org

-Trey

Deed 22, Day 22: Make-A-Wish

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 21:50:08 -0400

Sometimes it is easy to forget that what we do for a living is sometimes the same thing that many people around the world can only dream of. Today, we had the chance to make a very sick girl's wish come true. Today, she wasn’t thinking about her leukemia. She wasn’t thinking about the fact that she recently lost two grandparents. She wasn’t thinking about her father's failing kidneys. She wasn’t thinking about the surgery her mother urgently needs when they return home. Today, she was thinking about meeting her idol.

Melanie Amber (she likes to be called Amber) was diagnosed with Acute Lymphatic Leukemia two years ago. She couldn’t decide on what she wanted for her wish and two weeks ago thought about what it would be like to meet Selena Gomez. I coordinated with the great people at Make-A-Wish to schedule a meeting and they took it from there. They flew Amber and her whole family to New York City, put them up in a hotel and even set them up on a couple of sight seeing activities. I never realized that Make-A-Wish was so involved. I never thought that they would go as far as to fly an entire family across the country.

Amber loves Selena and her music, and with the help of everyone at Make-a-Wish, Hollywood Records and Clear Channel Radio NYC, she had the chance to meet Selena and sing a song with her. As the two hugged, you could see how happy and excited Amber was. At first, she was a little shy but slowly she became more comfortable and had lots of posters and cd’s for Selena to sign. The word strong doesn’t cut it when it comes to this family. When I was talking with Amber’s mom about what the past few years have been like, it was so surreal to see these healthy kids all around me jumping and dancing in the aisles, not a care in the world. I hope that just for today and for the time that this beautiful family gets to spend in New York City, they will be able to relax and have fun without worry or fear.

Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation's mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish® experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors, and entire communities.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in 1980 after a little boy named Chris Greicius realized his heartfelt wish to become a police officer. Since its humble beginnings, the organization has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, reaching more than 193,000 children around the world.

Although it has become one of the world's most well-known charities, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has maintained the grassroots fulfillment of its mission. A network of nearly 25,000 volunteers enable the Make-A-Wish Foundation to serve children with life-threatening medical conditions. Volunteers serve as wish granters, fundraisers, special events assistants and in numerous other capacities. As the Foundation continues to mature, its mission will remain steadfast. Wish children of the past, present and future will have an opportunity to share the power of a wish.

I want to thank everyone for helping to make today happen. Kristina Hesse, Christine Cookman, Tony Smith, David Perl, Marc Revieccio, Darren Pfeffer and everyone else involved in making today special for Amber.

To get learn more about how you can get involved, please visit www.wish.org

-Trey

Deed 21, Day 21: New Yorkers For Children

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 01:06:26 -0400

Interestingly I have found myself at another gala! It’s been a lot of fun! Day 21 of “30 Deeds, 30 Days” has brought me to the 11th annual New Yorkers for Children fall gala, presented by Circa, at Cipriani 42, to benefit youth in foster care in New York City. Aside from discovering parts of New York City and learning about some amazing organizations, I’ve experienced so many beautiful and emotional moments throughout this journey. Tonight was no exception.

Did you know there are over 16,000 kids in foster care in New York City? New Yorkers for Children is an amazing organization dedicated to improving the lives of children in foster care in New York City. The organization was founded in 1996 by Nicholas Scoppetta, former Commissioner of the Administration for Children’s Services, as the non-profit partner to Children’s Services. Over the past 13 years, NYFC has been working hard year after year to give children the best resources and tools they need. NYFC has developed programs that make such a positive impact on these young children’s lives, from tutoring, college scholarships, job training and networking opportunities.

It was a magical and special evening. Perhaps it was the beautiful and colorful room or that I got to walk the red carpet with my wife, which was a lot of fun, or maybe it was listening to the P.S. 22 Chorus from Staten Island sing a rendition of John Lennon's "Imagine."

Keith Bulluck, Linebacker for the New York Giants, was honored for his longtime commitment and philanthropic efforts helping young people in foster care. At the early age of 12, Keith found himself in foster care when his mother could no longer care for him. In 2003, Keith founded the Keith Bulluck Believe & Achieve Foundation to help youth in foster care in Tennessee and New York. This is a man who isn’t just passionate about professional football, but is absolutely committed to making sure young children know that they have a bright future.

One of the most touching moments of the night was listening to Kadidjia Adula accept her speech for receiving the 2010 Spirit Award. Like Keith, Kadidjia was only 12 when she entered foster care. Now, she is 20 and is in her second year at Borough of Manhattan Community College. She is currently pursuing her liberal arts degree and intends to move to a four-year college to study Biology. Her dream is to attend medical school.

I wasn’t able to stay the entire evening because I had to be on the air, but as I was leaving, the live auction started. Throughout this process it has been incredible watching others give of their time and money to those in need. One by one members of the audience were offering $50,000, which would help sponsor a child’s 4 year education. The whole experience left me breathless to watch how many people care about the well being of these bright and intelligent children. I later read that the event raised more than $1.6 million for the charity, which included $400,000 from the live auction.

I couldn’t help but think about one of the things that Rosie O’Donnell had said the night before at the gala and that is, every child deserves love and to be told that they are loved each and everyday.

I want to thank Amy McFarland, Director of Development, Susan Magazine, Executive Director and Caitlin Gassert, Development Associate for letting me be part of such a wonderful event.

To learn more about New Yorkers for Children and how you can get involved, please visit www.newyorkersforchildren.org

-Trey