I spent this afternoon looking at photos of people that I’ve covered over the years through video, photography and writing. Having started my career at Gift of Life Donor Program, I had the fortune of honing my craft of interviewing individuals who have experienced life altering experiences. At Philabundance, I was able to explore the world of poverty and work each day to get the word out that there is no one face of hunger. At Good Shepherd Penn Parters, I am able to cover the inspirational stories of patients working to regain their mobility, their caregivers who support them, and the therapists that work tirelessly all for their patient. Since graduating college in 2011, I am lucky to have continuously help share incredible stories told by amazing people! Love non-profit life! When I wanted to be a writer growing up, I never knew my life would take this turn but it is so fulfilling and so inspiring! Take a look at some of the amazing people I’ve profiled over the years!
beet hunger bash
101 Things That Happened in the Last 365 Days
Facebook now has a new app that will create a short video clip about the highlights of 2014. To be frank, 2014 can kick rocks. Most of the year was spent dealing with stress, unhappiness and grief. But somewhere in the middle of the emotional roller coaster of the year, I managed to do a whole bunch of cool things. 2014 can only be summed in one cliche, corny phrase- Life Goes On.
Here’s a 101 memorable things that I did this year. Thank you for reading my ramblings, commenting on my essays, and/or being in my life this year. I’m still wrapping my mind over some of the shit that went down over the past 365 days, so I won’t even try to guess what 2015 will hold.
101 Things That Happened in the Last 365 Days
Participated in a vegan chicken wing eating contest- This was a disaster, no one warned me that seitan expands once it’s wet. But it benefited Philly Roller Girls, so it was for a good cause!
Participated in a cupcake eating contest. – It was my first large amount of sugar after clean eating for 40 days, let’s just say that night I wanted to die
Went on an upside roller coaster- I actually tried frantically to get off the Batman Coaster but the attendant didn’t hear me so I was stuck going through with it
Went to Six Flags- We meant to go to Belmont Beach, but the signs for the safari seemed more exciting
Had an article go viral- I was annoyed about how much online dating sucked, and wrote an article about it one night after work. Apparently people like that kind of thing.
Got published on Literally Darling
Found out I was a social introvert
Took photos on Citizen Bank Park’s field before a Phillies Game
Missed a plane transfer
Had my article and face appear on Yahoo.com
Flew to California
Put my feet in the Pacific Ocean
Went in a hot tub under the stars at night in California
Had my face appear on a HuffPo email
Snapshots of 2014- Part II
I take a lot of photos. And I mean thousands, each year. Before getting a point and shoot in 2004, I always had a disposable camera around. Now with cell phones, and my DSLR, my photo obsession as grown even more. Here are a few of my favorite personal shots from 2014. Even though it was a tough year, there were many memorable moments!
Snapshots of 2014- Part I
These are a few of my favorite photos I took this year, mainly through my work at Philabundance!
You Never Think It Could Happen to Your Family
For over a year and a half, I had the opportunity to work as the Digital Media Coordinator for Philabundance. Philabundance is the Delaware Valley’s region’s largest food bank, providing food to over 75,000 people each week. During my time there, I learned how prevalent hunger was in my own neighborhood. While working on Philabundance’s 30th anniversary event earlier this year, I had the opportunity to showcase the impact Philabundance has on the Delaware Valley region. With the help of the amazing videographer Dave Case, I produced this short video to act as a case of support in why community members needed to help Philabundance provide services to neighbors in need. It was an incredible process to learn the stories of community members who found themselves in situations that they never dreamed of encountering. As well as the inspirational stories of volunteers who dedicate their time to make sure others have food on their tables.
Please take 3 minutes and watch how a financial contribution can make a difference in the life of someone going through a tough time. Then, consider making a donation to Philabundance or Feeding America to make the holiday season a bit brighter. $1 can provide 2 meals to someone that is unsure if they’ll have enough money to eat dinner this week after they pay their bills.
