We live in a world of activists. Our generation is obsessed with the idea of making this broken world a better place. The internet has been great in the way that we are able to help people who live across the world from our living rooms. Non-profit organizations are a great way to get involved with something you're passionate about, even if you can't physically help with the cause yourself. Below is a list of five of my favorite non-profits.
1. To Write Love On Her Arms
To Write Love On Her Arms is probably the most recognized non-profit for the destigmatization of mental illness. TWLOHA began as a story on MySpace in 2006, written by Jamie Tworkowski. He also began selling t-shirts with the TWLOHA logo to help offset the cost of his friend, Renee's treatment. The story went viral, and when Jamie noticed how many people were relating to this story, he knew he had to follow his heart. It's been ten years since TWLOHA was started and they have travelled to colleges, music festivals, and communities across the globe to share their message of hope, help, and healing. You can donate or buy their merchandise here: www.twloha.com
2. Preemptive Love Coalition
The Preemptive Love Coalition has helped children in Iraq receive over 1,300 life-saving heart surgeries. They also help get food and water to the needy, as well as provide many other services to those in war torn countries. They believe in love and peace above all else. The Preemptive Love Coalition strives to treat all people with love and compassion. Learn more here: www.preemptivelove.org
3. The Purpose Hotel
This project was just recently on Kickstarter, and they raised almost twice as much as their goal. The idea of this hotel came from Jeremy Cowart, a photographer who has travelled to over 25 countries. Jeremy has a dream for a hotel with meaning. In the Purpose Hotel, each item you see will have a unique purpose that will have an impact on people's lives all around the world. Each room sponsors a child's education, wifi helps fights human trafficking, the blankets are handmade, and more. The first hotel will be in Nashville, Tennessee. Watch the video here: www.purposehotel.com
4. Healing Hands International
Healing Hands International has been working to spread the love of Jesus and empower people to get their feet on the ground for 25 years. They have many projects including Walk 4 Water and the M.A.G.I. Project. HHI also travels to villages and helps teach them about sustainable living. You can host your own Walk 4 Water, or M.A.G.I. Project by visiting their website: www.hhi.org
5. ShelterBox
ShelterBox collaborates with widely recognized organization Rotary International to send aid to communities in need in the form of a big green box. Each ShelterBox is filled with the essentials, everything you need when you've lost everything you have. Each box is equipped with a family size tent, cooking utensils, solar lights, and even activities for kids. Even the box itself is can serve many purposes. Find out more at www.shelterbox.org
There's a cause for everyone, whether it's mental health or water wells, we can all make a difference in the world around us. Even if you can't donate yourself, you can find some way to spread the word about these amazing charities and what they do. The world is only as good as we make it. We are called to love, to give hope, and to try our best to heal this broken world.
