Last night, as I put my daughter to bed and read her a story, I gave thanks for having a healthy daughter who was able to run, jump and interact in society. It made me think of how many children are not as fortune and struggle each day with the simple task of getting out of bed (some can’t). Accidents and birth defects plague the life of so many kids. The images in my head are overwhelming and saddening.
All this stems from my involvement in an international organization known as Teleton, www.teleton. As many of you know my work at dRV Public Relations, takes me frequently to Mexico where I have been lucky to take part in luxurious properties and lavish amenities in the upscale travel industry. I have enjoyed amazing cuisine, tantalizing tequila and rich culture. I never thought of how many children are touched by devastating deformities and life-threatening cancer in the great country of Mexico. It wasn’t until recently that Teleton was brought to my attention and I was asked to help them raise money for kids in Mexico! Last Friday, I spent three hours meeting with the CIO of Teleton, where I viewed children video clips and listened to the amazing mission of this organization. After various lengthy conference call and brainstorming sessions, I agreed to become involved and help raise funds in the United States for Teleton.
Teleton, through my diligent research has been helping make a difference in the lives of children in Mexico (and some US kids too) for nearly 15 years. Their mission is to raise money and build state-of-the-art rehabilitation centers throughout the country of Mexico. Many orthopedic physicians donate their time and resources to treat children with physical therapy, prosthetic limbs and family counseling. From surveys conducted, Teleton is viewed as highly credible and the most trusted non-profit organization in Mexico (before the Catholic Church). Anyone can see, at anytime where their gifts of time and money are being applied. Just walking through a CRIT center, you will see the latest equipment and witness children receiving lifesaving therapy to regain their dignity and contribute to society. The Centers have strategic architecture to stimulate the rehabilitation of children! Many of their patients and families frequently return as volunteers to help others reach their goal of movement. In fact, this organization operates so efficiently that 98 cents on the dollar go directly to services, leaving 2 cents to operations. That is astounding!
I felt a social responsibility to give back to the country that has given me so much in the form of cuisine, cocktails, art, culture, history and amazing experiences in all in lavish settings. Because of my former American Red Cross experience, this was a perfect fit for me to participate and help raise awareness in the United States. So many upscale travels are done in Mexico and it is my personal mission to generate contributions from the affluent travel market that benefits from such a great country. It is time to bridge luxe with giving in Mexico. Ultra high net-worth communities can help change the life of a child and give them the gift of dignity through a contribution to Teleton. Philanthropic endeavors go far beyond our US communities, we all need to realize we are one world and should care about our neighbors to the north, south, east and west. Look at the devastation in Haiti, the world is helping make that nation a better place.
I for one am grateful, for the gift of a healthy daughter who is able to run to me and give me good morning kisses, jump into the ocean and swim, run fearlessly on a soccer field and aim a great goal, play Barbie’s without hesitation and participate freely on a school playground. I feel lucky and want to pay it forward and help other kids and families, where I frequently work.
This is an incredible opportunity of investment for the high net-worth market. Wouldn’t it be great to know you helped children in Mexico as you land in your GV Gulfstream or Lear Jet on the coast of Puerto Vallarta or Riviera Maya? Your gift is easy … giving a child dignity is precious. Their smile will live in your heart forever.
Follow my blog and learn more about my work with Teleton. I invite you to join me within the philanthropic velvet rope. Luxuries do not lie solely in brand names and hidden destinations but in the precious gift you make to a child.
Lots of Love, Lulu
lourdes@drvpr.com
http://www.drvpr.com/
http://www.jetsetterlulu.blogspot.com/
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