I know that I don’t usually post on Tuesday, but it’s a special day today – Giving Tuesday. Today is the day that you’re encouraged to donate to and support your favorite organizations, local and national. I wanted to share with you some of the organizations that I support.
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
I’ve been part of the New Leadership Council of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for close to 5 years now, and I’m so happy to be part of a group encouraging people to experience the arts. I may come off as analytical (which I am!), but I love music of all kinds – there’s nothing better than going to hear a live show. Supporting the arts is so important, especially as funding keeps getting smaller and smaller. The PSO is an award-winning orchestra – even if you don’t donate, if you’re in Pittsburgh, you should absolutely see a performance.
Community Living and Support Services
This is my third year serving on the Board of Directors of CLASS. I was so honored when I was asked to join – they have a long legacy in Pittsburgh. CLASS actually worked with Mr. Rogers to help him address disability on his show! They provide direct services for people with disability, and are also involved in advocacy work. They’re a great local organization that I’m more than happy to support.
The Warhol Museum
I just joined the Board at The Warhol this year, but I’ve been impressed by them for years. Not only are they the go-to museum to see Warhol’s work, but their other exhibits are always incredibly innovative. Their educational programming and community-centered events are also inclusive and diverse, as is their physical space. I’m so proud to be a part of the museum, and think it’s more than worthy of support.
Cure SMA
Cure SMA does amazing work for SMA-related advocacy, support, and research. They’ve actually supplied the seed grants for research that turned into Spinraza, currently the only-approved treatment for SMA. In exciting news, another drug was just submitted to the FDA for approval, which means more treatment options for people with SMA!! None of these are a cure, however, and continued funding for research and support is so, so needed.
Give Kids The World Village
I’ve written about Give Kids the World Village before – GKTW runs the “village” where Make-A-Wish kids and their families stay while they’re on their Wish trip to Disney World. My sister and I stayed there years ago as Wish Kids ourselves, and it’s truly a magical place. Everything is super accessible, and the princesses come for breakfast a few times a week! Staying there really makes the trip so special, and the volunteers that make it happen are so incredible. I just can’t say enough good things!
Accessible YOUniverse
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention my own organization, Accessible YOUniverse. Everything that we’ve been able to do so far has been really exciting, but we really rely on the support of the community to make things happen! If you’re able to donate, or spread the word, I’d really appreciate it.
This is just a small list – there are so many other worthy organizations! Who are you donating to today?? Let me know in the comments.
