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10.8.2008
Time To Get Involved!
For as long as I can remember, my Parents showed me their commitment to the community they lived in. I would accompany them to political caucuses and organization fundraisers. By their example I realized the importance of getting involved. Not only did it make a difference in the community, but it impacted me!
In Seattle, my Father is famous for shopping at Goodwill. It's not like the man doesn't make a good living; rather he loves a good deal and enjoys the experience. He goes a number of times a week. When asked about any outfit he's wearing, he will show you the item that cost a dollar and the one that cost a hundred. It's a real fun thing for him. His actions don't surprise me at all. His monthly contributions to the Goodwill help countless people he will never meet, and it brings him a lot of joy. I think our involvement in the community can do the same!
Get Local
This is a political year and that means a lot of opportunities for you to invest in the local issues. No matter where you are, there are a number of things for you to speak up about. There are also a number of groups for you to get involved in. Especially now! Here in Chicago there are countless organizations that you can give your time and financial support to!
The bottom line is that you can reach out of your life and give to help those lives around you. In Boystown one can visit the Brown Elephant Resale Shop; a Goodwill type venue where the revenue generated by donations and purchases go to help fund services for the more than fifty percent of Howard Brown clients who are under- or uninsured. My Father would love it there!
Get National
In California, Proposition 8, will appear on the November ballot. If it passes, it will add a new amendment to the California Constitution that will have the following text: "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." This is a time for our LGBT friends and supporters in California to stand up against such a proposition. I believe it is also time for those of us outside of California to take a stand against this type of interference in the rights of United States Citizens.
I find it interesting that Brad Pitt has given $100,00.00 of his own money to help fight against this proposition. Now, I may not be as rich and pretty as Brad, but I can abstain from a few lattes and donate like he did. I think every little bit helps. Looking at the big picture tells me that the passing of this proposition in California impacts you and me where we live. Clearly, its time to get involved on the national level!
Get Ahead
This is not an article to tell you who I think you should vote for! I just hope you vote! I can't tell you how many people I know that whine and complain about the economy; the war, and life, but never do anything about it. We can all contribute to a better life. If you don't have the money; give of your time. If you don't have the time; give away items you don't use anymore.
Now more than ever we all need to step up to the plate and get involved. Like my Parents, I think we will find that our lives are richly rewarded by the act of giving and giving back to the world we live in!
Bill Pritchard
Senior Vice President, Community Affairs
Bill@ChicagoPride.com
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