Jersey Girl wrote:
Sure, but can I ask you one more question first? When you say you'd like to work in support of disadvantaged children (perhaps like you once were yourself) what do you mean? Try it this way...if you could wave a magic wand and make it happen...what exactly would you be doing to help disadvantaged children?
Gosh, where to begin? There are millions of orphaned children throughout the world. Many are in war-torn countries like Iraq and the Congo, etc. They live in squalor and have no real future. Then there are the millions who don't have access to clean water. Then there are the children sold into the sex slave industry throughout Russia, Romania, and Asia. Then there are the neglected and abused children who are everywhere, who have no advocate. Then there are the less priveleged children who never have an opportunity to get proper educations and become something they want. Then there are the one's who are just ignored and tossed aside who end up drug addicts on the streets. Then there are the one's who come home to empty houses and have no parent to talk to about their day.
Some of my experiences so far include, becoming involved a little with Women for Women International when I lived near Washington D.C. They are an amazing organization that helps women in war torn countries like Iraq, Bosnia, and other places become financially independent through providing micro-loans and support to start their own businesses. This benefits the children because their mothers can have a stable income. The fathers in most of these places are either absent or abusive to their wives. Also many of these women are victims of war-time atroicities like rape.
I have also personally mentored a young woman who came from a very large family and really didn't have a lot of outside social interaction. I taught her how to sew, we made pillows and created a website and planned on selling them, but then I moved.
Right now, I am the neighborhood "mom". Many children in the area come over and I watch them, do crafts and games with them, talk to them. Last night I counted 9 children over at my house. Apparently some parents don't really care where they kids go or what they are doing. I've had kids at my house playing for hours before anyone came looking for them. I teach my kids to be generous, share their things and be selfless. My son has a heart of gold- he willingly has given away some of his toys to other kids.
I have done some pretty extensive research into how to start a NPO. I've studied the legalistic matters involved. I've done some preliminary research into specific organizations to learn their mode of operation. I've talked to several people who I would want to work with me.
I haven't narrowed my focus down sufficiently enough. I haven't secured a method of finance. I haven't written my business model yet. Although I do have some experience doing those.
But see, I am a high school drop-out. (I have my GED). I have only less then two years of college. I'm a stay-at-home- mom and I don't have a great support system.
So is it possible? I don't want to give up. But the odds are not in my favor.
