Much will be required from everyone

to whom much has been given 

     Not addressed often enough, but some of you may believe that since your career may not be at a level for you to make a monetary contribution to an organization, you'll simply wait until that 'breakthrough project' comes along. You're wrong. Giving freely is not exclusive to a monetary contribution. Give of your talent. Give of your time. Give of yourself.

     You may wish to volunteer your services to perform at an event, or write copy for a brochure or a mailing. As a composer, you could write a theme for a public service announcement for the organization, and donate all of the proceeds from performances. You could help by simply folding letters, and stuffing and stamping envelopes for a charitable campaign mailing. Donate your time in public school music programs, or perform your work at healthcare or assisted living facilities. The list is endless with things you can do without making a monetary contribution. 

     The list below is a 'work-in-progress' that I commenced many years ago. I regularly discuss 'giving' with clients, prospective clients and when I lecture at universities. The uniqueness of this list is that it is populated with organizations that are supported by the entertainment community. You'll find familiar names. You'll find unfamiliar names. Some have budgets in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Some have budgets that barely cover their rent and utility bills. In the event you are part of the entertainment industry and associated with an organization that is not acknowledged on the list, please send me a note for consideration to be added.

     Review the entire list, and find an organization that supports a cause that may have impacted your life through your own personal experience, a family member or friend. Perhaps it's an organization that simply whets your interest, or has an emotional appeal. Contact the organization to learn more about what they do. Attend a meeting, an event. If it feels good, support it; if not, find another organization. Don't stop after your first attempt! Keep looking!

     Volunteering is an investment in your community—and in your growth as an individual. You will get back far more than you put in.—Otto Vavrin II