As a girl who was raised on the idea that we should give back to our community as much as possible, I believe that we have more power than we think when it comes to making change. Working with UNICEF has solidified that belief.
After teaming up with them for a few months, I am still excited that I get to work with one of the most hardworking humanitarian organizations in the world. Quite simply, they make an incredible difference in millions of children's lives, and I am so happy to help them in any way I possibly can. There's just something really special about being part of UNICEF, and after going to their Ball on Tuesday, I can tell everyone who works with them feels the same way.
Photo credit: ©(DISNEY CHANNEL/Todd Wawrychuk)
Working With UNICEF
After having a lovely meeting with a representative from UNICEF in March, they asked me to be their Trick-or -Treat for UNICEF Ambassador in 2013. Naturally, I was ridiculously excited and said yes. A few months later, I started visiting schools and using my Twitter (gotta love social media!) to spread the word about Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. There were so many aspects about the campaign that I loved. First, the fact that every little donation helped; just one dollar could give a child clean water for 40 days. It was more important for everyone to donate a little bit, than for only a few people to donate a lot. Another aspect that I loved was what the campaign represented. The campaign exemplified the idea that no matter how old someone is or where someone comes from, everyone has the ability to help. I was ecstatic to find out that there was an extraordinary amount of people who participated this year -- so apparently, there are many people who realize they have the capability to make a difference.
The UNICEF Ball
When I found out I was invited to UNICEF's annual ball, I may have freaked out a tad. When I picked out my dress, I may have freaked out a little bit more. When I heard Matt Damon was hosting with Jerry Weintraub, and Michael Douglas was getting honored as well as a lovely lady named Ghada Irani, I definitely did some major freaking out. My excitement was overwhelming, and I was counting down the days until the big event. I was incredibly honored to be involved in such a meaningful event, and c'mon -- I was going to a Ball! Choosing what to wear was super fun (and super difficult, due to my indecisive nature). When I saw the GUiSHEM dress that I ended up wearing, I instantly fell in love. Its shape made it really unique, but its colors gave it a classic feel. I love experimenting with fashion, and that dress was unlike anything I had ever worn!
When I finally got to the Ball, I was so enthralled with everything around me. From the beautiful location to seeing some recognizable faces, I was beyond thrilled.
Photo credit: ©(DISNEY CHANNEL/Todd Wawrychuk)
There was a certain determination that was tangible in the air. We had all come together for this one night to raise money for children around the world -- a fact that gave everyone in the room this eminent purpose. One of my favorite speeches was given by U.S. Fund for UNICEF's President and CEO Caryl Stern. Her powerful words captivated everyone in the room, reminding us how thousands of children die from preventable causes every day. After the event was done, I found myself more inspired to help than before -- something I definitely did not think was possible. Overall, I feel so thankful that I am working with an organization that has such a wonderful resolve, and going to the UNICEF Ball just intensified my gratitude.