Living Philanthropic

Every week when I begin writing, I find astonishing, surprising and interesting facts, figures, people, places and things, but this week blew me away.

I started with the intention of writing about the rather mundane, overwrought topic of giving your treasure for the greater good and, in the process, ran into a story about this amazing guy named Carlo Garcia.

Last Spring, Garcia, who is from the south side of Chicago, came up with a huge idea.  He decided that every day for a year he would donate money to a different charity and document his journey on Facebook to inspire others to take on their own mission of giving. He has successfully done this every day for 340 days and you can read about his journey on his blog “Living Philanthropic.”

As Garcia told HuffPost Chicago, “I know how hard it is for charities to raise the needed funds for their programs, seeing first hand from my volunteer work. Back in April, [2010] this question popped in my head: How hard would it be to give to charity every day? The biggest obstacle for most people is money, so I thought: It doesn’t matter how much you give as long as you give on a consistent basis. So, I decided to challenge myself to see if I could actually complete this mission.”

Through his efforts, Garcia has donated over $3,950.81 of his own money and his blog has inspired other people to donate over $11,965!

I encourage you to visit his blog today, readers.  I guarantee you will be stirred, motivated and encouraged.

And, while I’m at it, I’d like to ask you a personal favor today.  My friends, Richard and Cindy, are in need your prayers, blessings, candle-lighting – whatever your spiritual practice might be – dedicated to Richard’s healing.

Two weeks ago, Richard went into the hospital for a hernia repair – a simple surgery that would require a one night hospital stay. Instead, last night, he had his fourth surgery and has been in ICU for two weeks. Complications upon complications have arisen and he and his wife need all the love and support we can muster.

To help you envision these dear people, let me tell you a little about them.  Richard is an attorney and a minister – an interesting combo, right?  He’s funny, smart, kind and generous, has a mischievous twinkle in his eye, a huge smile, and a big laugh. You might see him cruisin’on his motorcycle, serving on the board of a local non-profit, or proudly wearing his authentic kilt during Kirkin of the Tartans at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth. Cindy is a dear friend as well as one of my book club/traveling buddies.  She loves the beach and her three dogs passionately, has a big heart, and a ready laugh.  Like her beloved Richard, Cindy is funny and smart, plus she gives her whole being working in a local non-profit, helping people who can no longer formulate or communicate decisions for themselves.

Will you please join me in sending them healing energy?  Thank you.

Francie Cooper