Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Day 120: The Miracle Project

A little earlier in the year I asked Facebook friends if they had any ideas they may have for acts of kindness. A friend had suggested an organization called "The Miracle Project." This is a group which works to create community for children with autism through music, movement, theatre and film. Because April is autism awareness month, I figured I would take this opportunity- seeing as it is the last day in the month- to donate to the organization.

I checked out what the website had to offer to learn more about what they do and what they stand for. There are several classes that are offered in California and New York. Also, I found several videos better describing the organization and their mission, which states:
"THE MIRACLE PROJECT supports, nurtures and inspires children, teens and young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities as well as their families, through innovative socialization skills, and transformational life building protocols.

We are dedicated to providing a positive and nurturing environment for individuals with autism and their families while building a community of knowledge, acceptance and joy."
In addition, I found this fabulous picture that better illustrates the statistics of autism.

After exploring for a bit, I found a place where I could donate any amount of money. I decided to make a small donation, as I am sure every dollar counts and is appreciated. This was a fantastic way to learn and spread awareness about autism and finish off, yet another great month. 

God bless,
Kailee

Monday, April 29, 2013

Day 119: Feed Cheney

This evening I was able to take part in a very cool experience here in Cheney. I have been wanting to get involved with a club at Eastern called Circle K International (college version of Kiwanis) for the longest time and finally found time today. Basically, this club looks for community service opportunities. We took a trip down to the Cheney Community Center, where they serve meals for those in the community in need. In addition, attached to the community center is also a clothing donation bank which is open late on Feed Cheney days so those who eat can also shop.
After talking to a woman who helps organize these dinners, she explained that:

  • Feed Cheney on average feeds 80-100 people
  • Groceries are also available from Second Harvest
  • Feed Cheney is a monthly event, happening the last Monday of the month
  • The different courses are prepared by different groups and organizations like Second Harvest and a local church.
  • Volunteers are a huge blessing and make this dinner possible.

The rest of the group and I were asked to clean off tables and put away the tables and chairs. During my time cleaning, I was able to talk to other volunteers and learn a lot more about the program. In general, I was able to have a good time and meet some very nice people. I gave the lady in charge my contact information, so hopefully I will be able to come back help and help in the future. 

It is amazing that you live somewhere and be so unaware of the opportunities that await you until you go looking for them. Open your eyes, start looking because I promise you won't regret it! 

God bless,
Kailee 






Sunday, April 28, 2013

Day 118: Donated Prom Dresses

Proms are just around the corner and every girl deserves to look and feel like a princess. Seeing as I may have a few lying around the house, I decided it best to donate a couple dresses to someone who better deserved them. The cool thing about this whole idea is that there are plenty of places that accept donated dresses and either sell them at an inexpensive cost or donate them to a girl in need.

This afternoon, I just Googled "donate prom dresses" and found a site called DonateMyDress.org. This site will inform you about where you can donate dresses and where you can receive dresses locally. In addition, the site also has scholarships and real stories that you can take a look at. To find the closest location to you, simply click on your state and a list of shops will appear. In Washington, for example, there are 3 locations; Beecas's Closest in Bellevue, Adina Bridal Center in Seattle and Fairy Tale Fashions in Aberdeen.The great thing about sending your dresses somewhere within your state is just that, you know that your dresses will be enjoyed by a beautiful young lady in your neck of the woods.
P.S. If you have ever wanted to organize a dress drive at your school or locally, the website provides you with all of the information and materials you need to get started. My classmates and I held one in high school and it was fantastic. If you have the time and passion, go for it! 

God bless,
Kailee



Saturday, April 27, 2013

Day 117: GO GREEN: Pick Up Litter

Today, I am going to keep it short and simple. Next time you walk by a piece of trash, pick it up. The environment will appreciate it and everything will look so much prettier.








Friday, April 26, 2013

Day 116: GO GREEN- Planted Flowers

Happy Arbor Day! I totally wish I could have planted a tree today in honor of the holiday. Instead, I resorted to planting flowers. Still a great idea to brighten up a backyard and create a better environment. To boot, it was so gorgeous outside. With the weather warming up, it is the perfect time to plant something and enjoy its beauty.

On a side note, there is a clean up in downtown Kennewick tomorrow morning. If you are looking for a way to honor the Earth, I will see you there!



Thursday, April 25, 2013

Day 115: GO GREEN- Took the Bus

Even though I only live a few blocks away from school, I still find myself constantly driving to school. Today, I decided to take a chance and try out the public bus. It is free for EWU students and picks up right in front of my house. By taking the bus each day- or walking- to school I will not only lower my carbon dioxide emissions and save some gas along the way. 

My experience on public transportation wasn't as  bad as some stories I have heard. Just kidding, it was not bad at all. The trip was quick and easy and there are so many people who ride the bus that you may meet a new friend. Next week when I need to trek into Spokane, I am going to take the bus to work. Again, preventing nasty emissions in the air and saving gas. 




God bless,
Kailee 

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Day 114: GO GREEN- Reusable Grocery Bags

After taking what seemed like hundreds of plastics sacks to be recycled, I decided it was time to focus on the REUSE part of reduce, reuse, recycle. When I visited the grocery store this evening, I bought a $1 reusable grocery sack. Now I can just take this sack to the store and save the landfill a few plastic sacks. Even better, if you are a member of Safeway, you can go online and get a free reusable sack. A lot of stores offer discount on reusable sacks. Keep an eye out next time you are at the store and save a few sacks from the landfill in the process!

God bless,
Kailee

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Day 113: GO GREEN- Recycle

It is time to keep the ball rolling on Go Green Week, and recycle. At the very beginning of the year, I noticed a plastic bag recycle bin and decided to collect grocery and shopping bags to recycle. In addition, I did a little research and found that Cheney has a recycling center on the main street and took note of what they recycle. With the materials in mind, I began collecting recycleables about a week ago.  
(Plastic bags recycled)

Today, I took a little trip to the Cheney Recycle Center and dropped off my items. The man working was really nice and very appreciative for all of the items I had brought in. A little later I was talking to a friend and they had mentioned that, "once you start, you can't stop." Which is highly likely, because everywhere I look now I see new items that could be recycled. It was an eye opening experience to see how much garbage I collected over the course of one week. (seen below) All of that material could have been shipped to the dump to sit in a landfill. The city offers recycling bins for anyone who is interested. I even hear that some places will pay you for your trash...and everyone likes a few extra dollars! ;D
(Other recycled materials)


(Cheney Recycle Center) 

God bless
& go green,
Kailee

Monday, April 22, 2013

Day 112: GO GREEN-Conserve Energy

Happy Earth Day, or Earth week in this case! Today I simply focused on conserving energy. Unplugging all unnecessary cords in outlets, turning off lights and avoiding the computer. Each year, unused outlets suck enough energy to power 10.5 million homes! Just imagine how much energy and money you could conserve if you took just a moment to unplug unused cords. Below are the cords I found!











God bless,
Kailee

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Day 111: GO GREEN- Measure My Carbon Footprint

Tomorrow is Earth Day and Friday is Arbor Day, so I thought I would take the time to appreciate our beautiful Earth this week. Before I dive into the rest of the week, I want to begin by measuring my carbon footprint and learning how I can reduce it. A carbon footprint is how much carbon dioxide you as an individual are emitting. I think it is important for everyone to measure their carbon footprint at least once to see how their daily activities are effecting the Earth. Click here, to measure your carbon footprint.   

After filling my survey out completely, I got my results and a full break down of how much carbon I am emitting and how I was exerting that energy. As you can see, I can reduce emissions by taking the bus more often and riding my bike-if I had one. The other thing that I had not taken into account is eating meat and the processing of meat releases a lot of emissions, so if you meat every day and/or for every meal your carbon footprint will escalate. Now that I have assessed my carbon footprint and taken into account what I can work on, I can now focus on doing such in the future. The other option you are given is to offset you carbon footprint by donationg to forest conservation and forest management. However, to offset my footprint, I would be paying $165. Obviously, I need to work a bit more on my carbon dioxide output. 

God bless,
Kailee 

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Day 110: Pay It Forward

This afternoon, I watched the inspiring  and touching movie "Pay It Forward."It reminded me of how simple a chain reaction can be in creating a movement. If we took just one moment out of our lives to pay it forward, we can create something much bigger than ourselves. If you have never seen the movie, I strongly encourage you do so. It is one of those movies that makes you ponder and even just for a moment realize that there is something that everyone and anyone can do to make a difference. In the movie, Trevor the main character simply explains how he can be a catalyst for change. Watch that particular clip below.

Today, I would like to pay it forward by surfacing my thoughts about a few people who motivate me to be better, do better and do more. They know who they are, but I don't think they realize how much they inspire me. After reading this, I hope, no I DARE you to pay it forward by telling at least 3 people how they have impacted you. Most of the time people change our lives for the better and usually are unaware. 

1) This person has taught me that not all things come easy in life and if they don't you work for them. They have taught me not to sweat the small things (most of time) and live in this moment. Too often, I find myself planning. I am a planner, it is what I do. But when they are around, it brings me back to now. Time is a precious commodity and one that should not be taken lightly. They constantly remind me that you work hard to get what you deserve. If you want something, go get it because time will pass no matter if you are working towards your goal or not. 

2) This person always makes me believe in my dreams whole-heartedly. Sometimes, I think they believe in me more than I believe in myself. But the thing is it is their drive and passion that motivates me. This particular friend is one of those people that, no matter what, has your back and is not afraid to push you to better yourself. They realize that this world is not all fairytales and butterflies, but they also know that there is still some magic left in the world. That no matter how many people doubt them, they believe what matters is that you believe in yourself and you have something worth fighting for. 

3) The last person is one of the most naturally talented human beings I have ever met. Not to say they don't work hard, because they do. When they get a vision in their mind, it is no stopping them. This person and I have actually had several discussions about sports and what drives them. They did what they did for the love of the sport, but what they hadn't realized is they were doing so much more. Sports are a beautiful thing (hence all of the inspirational sports movies) and when you watch someone who is a true athlete you know why. Because athletes have always taught us that impossible is nothing. 

God bless,
Kailee 




Friday, April 19, 2013

Day 109: Grilled Cheese Feed for Campfire USA

This afternoon Tiff and I swung by the Gamma Phi house to enjoy grilled cheese with the g phi b's. Gamma Phi is a sorority on campus and which philanthropic events focus on Camp Fire USAand Girls On The Run. Today, specifically, the donations from the grilled cheese feed will benefit a local Camp Fire camp. The girls who were working brought us grilled cheese and our soup of choice. To boot, the house was decorated so adorably. When Tiff and I were there, there were several other tables of people chowing down on their scrumptious soups and sandwiches, meaning the event looked to be quite successful. I hope our sorority was able to raise a good amount for Camp Fire!

Camp Fire, I have recently learned is so much more up my alley than I could have ever imagined. This is a summer camp that offers several different camp courses, such as learning more about the environment or leadership. The leadership camp immediately caught my eye and I did some extra research. The promise of Camp Fire is as follows:
If you visit the Camp Fire website, you can find a list of all of the camps offered in all 50 states. You too can get involved in donating to your school's Gamma Phi Beta sorority, donate online, volunteer or even be a camp counselor. Today's youth are our leaders and they need good role models to light the way, just like the G Phi girls. 

God bless,
Kailee

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Day 108: Click for a Cause

Today's act is very interesting and so so simple. I was browsing the Random Acts of Kindness website and came across an entry called click for a cause. It claimed that by clicking on different websites, money, food, etc. would be donated to the particular cause. No money, no hassle, just one click of the mouse. When you click, their sponsors donate. Attached to their entry were several sites that "clicking for a cause" applied. The list is set up by category of cause, so you have a lot to choose from. Here is the link for free click sites and an excerpt from their site.
Think you can't make a difference because you don't have any money?  Below are links to websites whose organizations will receive money because you clicked them.  Please note that some will only allow one click per day from the same computer.  This is a great thing to do while you're stuck on hold during a phone call.  Spread the word to your friends and family - when thousands of people are all doing it, it really does add up"
 I did a lot of clicking and donated to disabled animals and hungry children. I hope that by clicking a lot on my little mouse, I was able to make a big difference. The cool thing about these sites is that you can go back daily and do some more clicking. You can click as much or as little as possible. So, now I encourage you to click around too. I mean, the odds are great that you are on a computer right now. Just a few more clicks and you could make a difference!

God Bless,
Kailee


Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Day 107: Wore a Race Shirt For Boston

Yesterday while scrolling through Facebook, I saw a picture that said "wear a race shirt tomorrow in honor of Boston." Right when I saw that I thought how great of an idea this was, yet so simple. I went back to my room and scrambled through my closet to find all of my races shirts. When I found all my shirts my first thought was, man I have a lot of t-shirts, which was shortly followed by the thought that I should not wear one tomorrow, but one each day for the rest of the week.

When I woke up this morning I was getting ready for my internship and was trying to get creative with a business casual outfit and a race shirt. Luckily, I had one that only had print on the chest, small enough to be covered by my blazer. I'm sure it did not look fabulous but it didn't matter, as a friend of mine said, "because somethings are more important than dress codes." Each time I looked down at my outfit it constantly reminded of those in need and it kept them close to my heart. 

Tomorrow it will be a different shirt and a different one the next day. It may be nothing immense, but it's the thought that counts, right? There is no such thing as too many prayers and thoughts for those in need. Keep it up world. 

God bless,
Kailee 



Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Day 106: One Day Without Shoes

One day without shoes? Sounds easy enough. Boy, was I wrong. Each year TOMS challenges everyone to forgo shoes and really live in the world of someone else, someone without shoes. TOMS is all about providing those who have no other choice but to walk barefoot with a pair of shoes. When you buy a pair of TOMS a pair will be donated to third world countries. Recently, TOMS has also started selling glasses. when you buy a pair of glasses, you are also paying for sight for someone in need. Basically, TOMS believes it is 'One For One'.  Buy one and they will provide one. To learn more about TOMS and their movement, shop here.

Depending on where you live, this challenge can be just that, challenging. Today is was so cold in Cheney and wind was a blowing. My toes froze instantly. Immediately my perspective had changed and I realized how fortunate I am to not only have socks on my feet, but shoes too. I was able to withstand most of the day without shoes. Fortunate enough for me, I was inside the majority of the day.

However, I spotted this gent walking across campus and he was going strong. In addition, he was also representing by wearing a TOMS shirt. I commend him tremendously for making a statement and making a difference. Congratulations if you were also one of the few who stood strong! One Day Without Shoes is an annual event, so keep your eye out for next year's date!

God bless,
Kailee

PREVIEW: Tomorrow, I will be wearing a race shirt in honor of Boston and their runners. Join me?

Monday, April 15, 2013

Day 105: Pray for Boston

This afternoon our nation experienced, yet another tragedy. There is not much more to say today than to continue the prayers. Keep those directly affected, those injured and those you love in your thoughts as we, as American pull through together. We are a strong nation and it is unfortunate, but it's in the moments of weakness that we remember how strong we are when we work as one. United We Stand. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

On a lighter note, it is my pleasure to say that there were 14 runners from my hometown and none were  injured. The case being the same for runners from Spokane. Many of the runners finished just minutes before the explosion.
God bless,
Kailee

P.S. Other than prayers, I wanted to see if there was something more I could do. This article summed it up best.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: This story is developing. Please check back for updates on how to help.
  • The Red Cross says the best way to help right now is to get in touch with loved ones through its Safe And Well Listings. The organization is not asking for blood donations at this time.
  • The Salvation Army is offering food, beverages and crisis counseling to survivors and first responders. Find out how you can get involved here.
  • Some marathon runners are stranded in Boston and in need of places to stay. Find out how you can offer housing here.
  • Anyone with info about the incident can call 1-800-494-TIPS.



Sunday, April 14, 2013

Day 104: Collected Pop Tabs

A few days back, a friend of mine mentioned that she and another girl were collecting pop tabs from cans of pop. The tabs collected will then be donated to the Ronald McDonald House here in Spokane. It is amazing that something so simple could make that big of an impact. To help them out, I went to Bimart and bought a couple boxes of soda. With two roommates, I'm sure we will finish the pop in no time.

If you too would like to collect tabs and donate, please notify me. I'm sure the girls would appreciate all of the donations they can get. The girls are collecting tabs until May, so you still have plenty of time to drink some pop and donate! Now, I'm going to go get my root beer float on! 

God bless,
Kailee

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Day 103: Set-up for the Lands Council Auction

This morning, I had the pleasure of helping a friend and fellow Miss Washington sister set up for The Lands Council's 18th Annual Dinner Auction. The event was being help at the Double Tree in Spokane in the very elegant ballroom. The money being raised this evening will go to support the Lands Council and their program titled Project Sustain. Project Sustain is a school program for students to learn how to be more sustainable and take care of the environment. An interesting fact that I learned about the organization is that they rescue beavers who are in danger and move them a better location. In addition, a local coffee shop brews The Land Councils' very own coffee called, Beaver Slap! To learn more about the organization, visit their website! http://www.landscouncil.org

Reina and I set up the decorations and the desserts for the evening. We went around to each table and made sure the center pieces, table numbers and the table tents were all in place and looking good. Also, we helped to set up silent auction items, and some items were so cool that I would have bid on them. As part of the auction, the guests will receive dinner and dessert. However, the dessert is chosen via dessert dash. If you have never taken part in a dessert dash, they are quite the experience. Each person from your table chips in to your table's overall amount. The table who donates the most money gets to choose their dessert first. BUT, the runner must be quick because the next highest table will be right on their heels! If you have the opportunity to go to a dessert dash, I highly encourage it. It is so much fun!


I really enjoyed helping Reina and the rest of the crew set up for the auction. I learned a lot about the organization and what they do to make our community sustainable. I appreciate this specific dinner even more because Earth Day is just around the corner. How will you show Mother Earth your love?

Friday, April 12, 2013

Day 102: Easter Seals

Lately, I have seen Easter Seals pop up and wonder who they are and how I can help. When I went to the grocery store this afternoon, I noticed that Safeway was accepting donations for them. I asked the cashier what it took to donate and they explained that they were asking customers to round up their purchase and the change would be donated. Because I visit frequently, I have rounded up and donated my change plus a few extra dollars. I'm going to make it my mission to donate each time I visit Safeway and I encourage you to look for simple opportunities in your area. All it takes is a little change to make a change.


Easter Seals is a non-profit organization determined to making a difference in the lives of those with disabilities. You can find more information by visiting https://secure2.convio.net/es/site/SPageServer


Thursday, April 11, 2013

Day 101: In it to End it

Lately, there has been a lot of talk about the End It Movement. Kids, adults and celebrities have all been seen displaying a red X on their hands. Because of all of the commotion, I decided to look into it more. And what I found was shocking. Below are some of the statistics found on their website.
The End it Movement mission is shine a light on the issue of slavery. To let others know that it still exists and let those who are living as slaves know that they are not alone. You can learn more and watch videos at http://enditmovement.com/.
One of my favorite quotes is from Margret Mead who said, "never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." This is a movement. It requires others to take part. To keep it moving! So, like many others, I planted a large red X on my hand to share with the world. But a movement is nothing without action. My goal is to not wait until someone asks about the mark, but rather explain to at least 5 people why it is on my hand. This is something that seriously everyone can take part in. So what do you say...are you in it to end it?

Be the change,
Kailee





Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Day 100! Happy Sibling Day

Happy National Sibling Day! If you hadn't known it was sibling day, don't worry. The day is not over and you still have time to send your lovely brother and/or sister a nice text. The only reason I had known about sibling day is because I hunted for corky and bizarre holidays before the year began. Besides, it never hurts to tell your sibling how much they mean to you.

In my case, I have one brother who is 24 and living in Montana. Because we are not under the same roof, I wanted to surprise him with a little package. He is my big brother and I have always looked up to him. He was the reason why I played sports and worked so hard at them. He is such a natural athlete that he shined at anything he did. So, when it was my turn to take the field or the court, I wanted to shine as bright as he did. It didn't matter if he had some idiotic coach who didn't believe in him, he always gave 110% and I believed in him. I still do. He is one of the smartest, (opinionated), artistic, talented, hardworking person I know. I only hope that he knows that and that he believes it. I don' think he realizes how much I idolize him. 

Seriously, sometimes the people that mean the most to you are the ones that tackle you-literally- to say I love you or pretend to punch you in the face as a way to say hello. No matter how they share their love, they still to know how much you care. Take the time today, tomorrow or sometime soon to let your siblings know. But hey, there isn't a better time than the present! 

God bless,
Hey, you're Trevor Dunn's little sister
(a.k.a Kailee)