This year for my birthday I decided I wanted to donate to a charity that is important to me. When the idea first hit me, I wasn't sure exactly who I would donate to or what the cause would be, but I knew I wanted to do this. I knew I wanted to celebrate my next year of life by helping someone in some way, shape or form.

I finally decided on Teen Challenge. Teen Challenge is a Christian substance abuse rehab organization that has locations all across the country. They serve both teenagers and adults.

After reflecting on my own life and seeing how much I have, I couldn't really think of anything I needed for my birthday. Sure, just like anyone there are things I want or I think would be nice to have, but they aren't necessities to life. I've survived this long without them, I think I can last a little longer.

Donating my birthday is much bigger than just a cause I'm passionate about. It goes back to losing my uncle over four years ago. It goes back to how ever since that day, I have wanted to play a role in helping those with drug addictions recover.

I don't know exactly how much I'll raise or what Teen Challenge will be able to do with the money I raise, but I do know that every little bit helps. I know that it could be the difference between someone recovering and someone continuing to fall victim to drug usage and abuse.

I've decided that it's time that I start advocating for the causes that mean a lot to me and not just the causes that others say I should care about.

I've always felt that my purpose in life was to impact others and make a positive impact on the world. I'm still figuring out how to do that, but I think donating my birthday is a good start.

I want to stay involved in helping those with drug addictions in my future, and while I don't know what capacity that will be in, I have found something I'm passionate about changing and helping, which is good enough for me.

Donating my birthday is so much bigger than myself, and it's so much better than any gift that anyone could give me.

Seeing others get the help they need in memory of my uncle, that is the perfect birthday gift.