Dear Powerball Winners,
Congratulations! I cannot imagine what winning the largest jackpot lottery in history feels like. Never having to worry about rent or mortgage payments, medical bills, going on vacation wherever you want, you've got to be excited. But let me remind you that while winning the lottery is a gift, it's also a responsibility.
People who win an incredulous amount of money often don't know what to do with it, but never fear, I have a list of five organizations that would greatly benefit from your generous donation:
1. The American Cancer Society
"If we had a dollar for every glimmer of HOPE challenging cancer, think of the lives we could save."
Everyone on this planet has been affected by the treacherous disease we know cancer to be. By donating to the American Cancer Society you would be able help fund lifesaving research, 24/7 patient support, and programs for early detection. Gifts can also be donated in memory of a loved one. Help pave the future for medical advances.
2. The Brain and Behavior Research Foundation
"Committed to alleviating the suffering caused by mental illness by awarding grants that will lead to advances and breakthroughs in scientific research."
By donating to the Brain & Behavior Research foundation you can help fund research that explores mental illness and the brain. An example of recent discoveries, thanks to donations, have come to show that anxiety control resides in a specific part of the brain. 100 percent of contributions are invested into investigation of the brain.
3. The Hunger Project
"A world where every woman, man, and child leads a healthy, fulfilling life of self-reliance and dignity."
Some people do not know when their next meal will be, but you can prevent that by donating to the Hunger Project. Created in 1977, this global non-profit organization is committed to ending world hunger. Think of what even a fraction of that $1.6 billion in prize money could do for third world countries.
4. The Trevor Project
"The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24."
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among young people ages 10 to 24. Your donation will go towards a 24/7 crisis hotline, counseling, and education on the LGBT community. By donating to the Trevor Project you can help save lives.
5. Habitat for Humanity
"There are nearly 2 billion people around the world who live in slum housing, and more than 100 million are homeless. Habitat helps by building or renovating simple, decent houses in partnership with those in need."
When was the last time you worried about where you were sleeping tonight? Millions of people around the world have that worry every day. By donating to Habitat for Humanity you can help put a roof over someone's head. Everyone should have a healthy, safe place they can call home.
I look forward to seeing how you use your Powerball winnings to make the world a better place.