In a time of great need, it is important that we identify what we can give to help ease the pain of those who suffer. Giving back reminds us of our shared humanity and our ability to make a difference, no matter where we are in life or work.
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”
– Buddha
My Story
Giving back has been part of my DNA since childhood. At around ten years old, I joined my family at a soup kitchen on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, serving meals to our unhoused neighbors. That early experience planted a lifelong passion for community service.
Over the years, I’ve volunteered for causes close to my heart, including education and early childhood development, mental health awareness, land conservation, civic engagement, elderly care, and racial and ethnic equality.
For over a decade, I used my Twitter platform to share daily ideas for simple ways to give back, which led to being named a KTVB News “Channel 7 Hero”, a recognition for extraordinary community contribution in the Boise area. Talent Dharma is proud to support the Boise, Idaho community through time and treasure for:
- Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Centers (held a Board position for three years)
- The Idaho Foodbank
- Women and Children’s Alliance
- Agency for New Americans
- Boise Bicycle Project
For the last 15 years, I’ve focused most of my volunteer efforts on supporting immigrants and refugees as they rebuild their lives in the U.S. Since 2023, I’ve served as a mentor and career coach with Upwardly Global, a national organization that helps skilled immigrants and refugees re-enter their professions and thrive. In April 2025, I was honored as one of Upwardly Global’s top volunteers during Volunteer Appreciation Month, a recognition that holds deep meaning for me.
Lifting Others as We Climb
Volunteering taught me that professional dharma is only complete when we lift others as we climb. Everyone has something valuable to give. Whether it’s one hour a week or a dedicated commitment, your time and talents can create a ripple of impact and even help you grow personally and professionally.
If you’re currently job searching, volunteering can be one of the most powerful strategies to maintain momentum and connection. It can help you:
- Bridge employment gaps
- Strengthen and showcase your skills
- Build new experience
- Expand your network
- Boost your confidence
- Gain current references
- Potentially lead to full-time opportunities
Think about the causes that move you. Then reach out to organizations that share that mission; many are eager for skilled volunteers. You can also contact CatchaFire or Taproot Foundation, nonprofit organizations that connect professionals with high-impact volunteer projects where your expertise can make an immediate difference.
A Final Thought
Giving back is part of the air I breathe. It’s woven into who I am and how I show up in the world. It’s also an essential part of my personal brand. If we work together, you’ll hear me talk often about volunteering because giving to others always has a way of giving back to us, too.