Movember & She’s the First 2020
Welcome to the 6th edition of Movember! This Movember is going to be a little (very) different — over the past several months, I’ve come to the realization that Movember isn’t just about raising money for mental health… it’s about the awareness the event brings about.
Over the last 6 years, I’ve grown my (itchy & untamed) beard in an effort to raise awareness around Men’s mental health. In many communities, households, and relationships, Mental Health is often a topic that’s often overlooked and under discussed.
For me, Movember serves as an incredibly important reminder that there exists a strong support system without judgment for those who need it, even in the toughest of times. Mental illnesses do not discriminate where you come from, what you look like, and your own beliefs. Now, more than ever, it’s important to seek help, but also be there to look out for each other. I’m immensely grateful for the strong support system I have in my life and hope to highlight to others that they have one too.
This Movember, I not only want to continue bringing awareness and actionable ideas towards mental illnesses and mental health, but I also want to spotlight a different Organization — “She’s the First”. STF aims to fight gender inequality through education. After doing hours of research, STF stood out to me because of its commitment to empowering young women from underserved communities by providing stability, mentorship, and opportunity. I can personally say without a shadow of a doubt, I would not be where I am today had it not been for the education I’ve received for the past 23 years.
Globally, young women account for 59 percent of the total illiterate youth population, an astounding number that I’m sure most people are unaware of. As Tammy Tibbetts would put it — “Talent is everywhere, opportunity is not”. One of the greatest things about this organization is that many of the young women that benefit as a result of the work STF does, always come back to pay it forward to future generations.
While there are so many polarizing opinions on a multitude of subjects in today’s political climate, there should be no debate or hesitancy in helping reduce suicide rates amongst young men or providing access to education and opportunity to young women.
I’m excited and dually optimistic about what we can accomplish together. My goal this year is to raise $1000 for each organization. The first $1000 raised will go directly to the Movember Foundation (you can donate directly here to my campaign) and the next $1000 will go directly to She’s the First (you can donate directly here or venmo me so I can donate the lumpsome together).
In an effort to be completely transparent — you can view all donations collected via Venmo here. I cover all transaction fees for donations done via Venmo & I do not write these donations off on my taxes
As always, there’s no pressure to donate — understanding and educating ourselves (and others) pays far more dividends than what $2000 could begin to change.
I am extremely, extremely thankful for your time, care, and love.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller
