I am involved in a number of charitable organizations and efforts and I try to support these causes when I can through my law practice. Each month, I select a charity and donate a portion of my fees to that charity. I thought that it might also be a good idea to write about these organizations and encourage others to support them.
My main vehicle for my charitable efforts is through Rotary International. I am a proud member of Rotary and of my local club, the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor Mid Day of which I served as President for the 2011-2012 Rotary year. Rotary offers an excellent opportunity for service both in the local community and in the world while also providing an opportunity for professional and personal fellowship. Several of my “Charity of the Month” selections throughout the year are Rotary related causes and events, especially our annual golf tournament, Golferitaville, and our annual dog walk event, Harbor Hounds.
However, I am also interested in local community service and, specifically, education, community enhancement programs and helping those in need.
Education is extremely important to me in general but also because I have two children, currently in the elementary public schools, who are directly affected by support from the community. I believe in supporting the local PTA as well as other education-related causes.
I am also horrified when I hear about how members of our community (and any community) go without food, transportation or basic services. There are many groups that provide amazing services in our community such as the FISH Food Bank, the Backpacks for Kids program operated by the Peninsula Communities of Faith and others.
Finally, I support programs that enhance our community such as the Harbor History Museum, the Gig Harbor Waterfront Association and other similar programs. These organizations (and others in communities like ours) make the community experience stronger and more appealing.