30 Things in 30 Days- Day 5

Day 5 was inspired by my friend Jessica, who is a sexy librarian in Chico, California. It was also inspired by my friend Cindy Coloma, a writer from California. I know that there are a lot of worthy causes out there. If you looked hard enough you could donate every day of the year to something different and powerful. But I want to tell you about one that is near and dear to my heart.
A while back Cindy was sharing about a book she was writing with a woman named Linda Smith. I got my hands on a copy and read it in 2 days. It's called Renting Lacy: A Story of America's Prostituted Children. I finished this book and knew I had to do something. Those of you who know me well know that we lost our business a little over a year ago and money has been pretty tight. But I faithfully give as much as I can to this program because I know it's making a difference. I challenge you to get your hands on this book. It will rock your world.
Shared Hope International helps women and children enslaved in the sex trade by providing them with shelter, health care, education, and vocational training opportunities. What I love about this organization is that it is focused not only on making a difference worldwide, but also here at home in America. I was shocked at the sex trade statistics in the US, even right here on in the Northwest. I also love that Linda Smith isn't just making noise about this ugly, heartbreaking issue. She is working hard to reform legislature and laws, while at the same time using her influence to meet real needs of these victims.
I hope you visit their website to learn more. And if you feel led to give money to Shared Hope, will you let me know? I know Linda will give you a free copy of Renting Lacy for your donation.

And Jessica, thanks for the idea.