Inspiration comes from many places. To me, there is perhaps no greater source of inspiration than the youth of the world. Being involved with No Kid Hungry brings me in contact with many who feel the same way. Recently I was introduced to several young people who have been recognized for their efforts in creating positive change in the world. This will be the first in a series of conversations I have with these young leaders.
Meet Michael-Logan Jordan "Logan," Founder of Logan's Heroes Foundation. Logan is 15 years old, and lives in Kailua, Hawaii. I asked Logan four questions. You'll soon want become Logan's hero.
1) Why did you get involved?
It all started almost 11 years ago when I was 5. My parents took me to a Toys for Tots warehouse at my dad's work and we all volunteered together. We separated rows upon rows of toys of all different ages. That really had a huge impact on my perspective on life. From that day on I vowed to donate all my birthday gifts to Toys for Tots. I couldn't even imagine a child not having a Christmas if it weren't the generosity for others.
2) What made you take it is far as you have? (when most people would stop after a while)
Giving back to the community made me feel good. I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ehler's Danlos Syndrome at the age of three. Even though I have been through many hospitalizations, surgeries, and medication changes (including biologic and chemo infusions) there is no cure. Giving back, spreading aloha, random acts of kindness....these are things that make me feel good-physically and spiritually...and that is my cure! I truly believe that making a difference...being the change.. is the single most important thing that you can do in your life and the lives of others.
3) How would you define leadership?
Leadership has been described as "a process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task/goal." I feel that true leadership or a true leader, simply helps others out. A leader guides or directs others by walking the walk...or leading by example.
4) What can we (me and others) do to help you?
You can do so many things...the possibilities are endless! Find something you are passionate about and volunteer! One of my favorite things (which will cause a ripple effect in your community) is something I like to call "random acts of kindness."
If your dream is to stop world hunger you can start by helping out your local food bank, hold food drives, volunteer at a soup kitchen or Meals on Wheels program or simply purchase a homeless person something to eat.
If your dream is to make the world a clean and healthy place , you can start by picking up rubbish, hold beach or park clean ups, learn to use the sun's solar power instead of electricity or just simply recycle. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
If your dream is to help our veterans, wounded warriors/first responders or military families, you can start by saying thank you, write a letter or stop by for a visit. I know (from personal experience) that mowing a neighbor's lawn or making a dinner for a military family whose spouse is deployed or injured is priceless!
If your dream is to help out kids in foster care/group homes, you can hold clothing drives, collect backpacks/school supplies, luggage or gift cards so they can purchase hygiene items, make up etc.
If your dream is to achieve world peace and equality all you have to do is start with yourself. Treat others respectfully, be kind or just simply smile and greet someone.
Stand up, Speak out and Be The Change! There are many organizations and nonprofits out there that are champions for whatever cause you are passionate about. Contact them. They could always use your help and are looking for volunteers!
You can join me on my journey and become one of my heroes... Logan's Heroes. The Logan's Heroes Foundation's mission is to Support, Empower, Inspire and Connect those that we partner with and provide services for by promoting the spirit of volunteerism.
Knowing that my foundation and my heroes are able to help arthritis sufferers, disadvantaged children and wounded warriors/first responders makes my heart smile! My heroes are the first to jump in and help whenever I have a new project I'm working on and stand beside me and cheer as we accomplish our goals together. I couldn't do it without them!
If we all started with one random act of kindness, the ripple effect will reach everyone.
The end result? We will have made this world a better place. Volunteer -- it does a body good!