Update on LVI's progress - What are we up to??
To our amazing subscribers, the people who are truly keeping us afloat!
First off I would like to thank each and every one of you for reaching out and showing your enthusiasm and encouragement for what Life Vest Inside is all about. Whether you’ve shown it by signing up for the mailing list, reaching out through FB, following us on twitter, posting your positive feedback on Life Vest Inside’s youtube video, or by a simple heartfelt email expressing your gratitude. Your support means a great deal to me and I’d like you to know that it hasn’t gone unnoticed.
This is Life Vest Inside’s very first email update and I would like to give you a rundown on the plans Life Vest Inside has for the future and what we’re doing right now to insure its success.
So what are we about?
For the most part, all of you have found us through the Kindness Boomerang, an inspirational film I shot last summer. But Life Vest Inside encompasses so much more!
Through acts of kindness, LVI aims to empower individuals to recognize the potential they have within to effect real and positive change in the world.
Our vision is simple: By living kindly, Change is Possible! However, LVI doesn’t simply inspire. We aim to take people from mere inspiration to the follow through that will truly make a difference in the world.
Our motto: Inspire, Engage, Educate, Connect!
I. Inspire:
*Film: Media is a proven way of reaching the public and inspiring change. Since the release of our first film three months ago, the film has reached well over 15 million people across the globe.
Reports of kind acts, increased awareness, and stronger sense of self have been pouring in from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and religions. It’s almost as if there is something magical in the air touching the lives of people and inspiring them to take action and make a change.
If a single film, based on truth and the purity of spirit has encouraged a kindness revolution, the possibilities for change and a brighter tomorrow are endless. And so, Life Vest Inside is in the process of creating additional films to inspire the masses to take action and remind us all that the power of kindness exists within each of us.
*Current projects:
We currently have three short spots in postproduction and we will be releasing them over the next couple of months.
We are currently working on our next short. We will be posting the project to gain funding on Kickstarter. Kickstarter is a funding platform for creative projects. Once we post our project, I’ll be sure to let you know so you can check it out. Our next film focuses around our future, the children. The goal of which is to empower children to see the opportunities for kindness that surround them on a daily basis.
The social issues plaguing the youth of today have sky rocketed. While there are programs developed as anti-bullying, anti-drug, and so forth – these programs only deal with the problem once it becomes a problem. LVI acts to prevent such issues from materializing by focusing on the positive rather than the negative; it’s not about fighting against bullying, but rather about empowering children to recognize the potential within themselves. I have great hopes for our next film and we’d love to hear your feedback.
*A film for the people by the people:
Life Vest Inside is also in the process of creating a film for the people by the people; compiling clips from people across the globe. This is a chance for you to become part of a film and contribute something of your own. Details of the project to come shortly – so stay tuned!
*Blog:
I have just started a blog on the Life Vest Inside website to share with you inspiring and heart warming stories and thoughts from my own life. Have something to contribute? Submit a guest blog post for a chance for your story to be featured as our Featured Guest Blog post of the month!
*Facebook/Twitter:
Check us out on Facebook and Twitter and be inspired each day!
II. Engage:
*Mobile App: Life Vest Inside is in the process of developing a truly revolutionary mobile app with the ability to connect people across the globe through their acts of kindness; giving people the opportunity to see first hand how their actions have a positive effect on so many others.
*Website: The Life Vest Inside website is in the process of being developed to maximum capacities, encouraging a worldwide kindness connection as people share thoughts, quotes, stories, photographs, videos, and concerns.
The website will serve as a “Kindness Network”, connecting people living oceans and miles apart through the theme of kindness. More details to follow – stay tuned…
*Events:
Life Vest Inside wants to give our supporters the opportunity to turn inspiration into action. We are organizing a Kindness Mission Day.
Join the Life Vest Inside team as we head out on a day all to do with kindness. From soup kitchens, to hospitals, to get our hands dirty cleaning a park, and of course a fun group activity teaching us the importance of appreciation, we will be out from morning until evening entrenched in a world of kindness. Details of the day to follow. Check out our blog and our FB page for updates on event details. Our first event will take place in NYC, but we have hopes of creating similar events in other regions across the globe.
Interested in starting a Kindness Mission Day for Life Vest Inside in your hometown? GREAT! Shoot us an email and we will place you on the list and give you the resources you need to get it done.
III. Educate:
*Kindness Curriculum: “The children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they posses inside, give them a sense of pride to make it easier. Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be.”
Life Vest Inside is in the process of developing a Social Emotional Learning program geared towards 4th-12th grade children as a preventive measure to combat the social issues plaguing the youth of today. The program is focused on building self-esteem, self-awareness, and confidence through the idea of giving; the concept of kindness.
*Motivational speaking: During the upcoming months, LVI is scheduling pilot lessons/workshops in schools, universities and companies to introduce the program; allowing people the opportunity to see first hand the impact of the program and its ability to make a difference. If you’re interested in scheduling a lecture/workshop feel free to contact us or register on lifevestinside.com.
IV. Connect:
Life Vest Inside is creating a volunteer database, making it fun, easy and accessible to turn inspiration into action by allowing users to be matched up with an accredited organization in their area that caters to their interests. More info about our database on the way…
V. Staying Afloat: Funding
Life Vest Inside is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All donation are 100% tax deductible. The power to make a difference in someone’s life begins with you. Every donation helps infuse the world with kindness that can be heard, that can be seen, but more importantly that can truly be felt. Therefore the contributions of companies and individuals are greatly appreciated. Interested in becoming a sponsor? Interested in donating a dollar – every little bit helps keep us afloat!
*Fundraising events:
Want to organize a bake sale, basketball tournament, marathon, concert, etc to help raise money for Life Vest Inside? The possibilities for fund raising events are endless and we can most ceratinly use all the help we can get. If you are interested in organizing a fund raising event for the organization let us know!
Have any suggestions, ideas? We would love to hear from you and value your feedback!
Well, that was a mouth full! If you are interested in volunteering or signing up as an intern feel free to fill out a volunteer form. Want to take on a bigger role? We are currently choosing a select group of people as Team Leaders. Click here to learn more and sign up.
Always remember the words of Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of committed people will change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has”
Join us in taking baby steps towards making the world a better place – by reminding people that it’s cool to be kindJ
With love, kindness, and a whole lotta respect,
Your fan!
Orly Wahba
Kindness Hero: Dale Settle Jr.
I received an email from a kind hearted woman, Lisa Mariani, asking that I share the story of her nephew Dale who gave his life to save others. I would like to honor his memory by naming him a Kindness Hero.
This post is written by Dale's aunt, Lisa, in his memory and his honor.
"My nephew, Dale Settle Jr. was a 22 yr old youth group leader for teenage kids at his church, Faith Family Church in Canton, OH. His life came to an end when he was shot in the abdomen on September 22, 2011 while on his way to a Bible Study. He and two friends were approached by two men. One man had a gun and was demanding money. Dale tried talking the gunman out of what he was about to do and offered to help him. A car approached, and the gunman lowered his gun so the passerby did not see what was going on. That is when Dale jumped in front of his two friends, reached for the gun, and was shot. Even as he was dying, witnesses and emergency room personnel say that he prayed that his assailants be forgiven. He died on September 23rd, after being in surgery for over five hours.
If you had known Dale, he really would have helped the gunman. And if his friends were two strangers, he would have saved their lives too. Dale was always helping people he didn't even know. He loved children and had a contagious smile for anyone he came in contact with.
His story has touched so many lives and over 800 people came to his calling hours. Some of them never even met Dale, but were touched by his story and his heroic act. Dale laid his life down for his friends. His family and friends want to spread this act of heroism, love for God and
kindness across the nation. On November 6, 2011, what would have been Dale's 23rd birthday; his family held a Pay it Forward Day in which over 1500 people participated in across the nation.
Dale's family would like to keep this ""Pay it Forward"" going by doing random acts of kindness whenever the opportunity presents itself. It's simple. You download the flier on the website, www.dalesettlejr.com and print multiple copies. Keep them with you so you have them available when needed. You don't have to look for an opportunity. God will let you know when the right moment is and you will find it when you are least expecting it. It can be as simple as helping a friend in need, or paying for the people sitting next to you in a restaurant. Some people have paid for a stranger's gas at the pump, or bought a simple $5 gift card at a donut shop and handed it to the next person in line, along with the flier. By giving the flier with every act of kindness, Dale's story will spread little by little and eventually his story will be heard worldwide.
It doesn't matter what your religion, your beliefs or your background are, everyone can make the smallest difference in the world by starting with one person.
D.A.L.E. was founded by Dale's mom, Sharon Lane and myself. It stands for Do A Little Extra. We want to spread this story and keep the Pay it Forward going all over the world.
Be kind. It's What Dale Would Do."
~Lisa Mariani
Team Leader Responsibilities and Application Form
At Life Vest Inside we believe that by working together and collaborating with others across the globe, the possibility for change is within our reach!
As a non-profit organization we can use any and all assistance by committed, caring and dedicated individuals such as yourself. Apply to become a Team Leader and take part in making the world a kinder more beautiful place to live.
Each Team Leader will select a team of volunteers from our volunteer database that they will work hand in hand with to meet the Team’s objectives. Team Leaders will learn first hand how to delegate responsibilities and take ideas from concept to actuality. Below is a list of Team Leader responsibilities. If you are interested, feel free to fill out a Team Leader application.
Team Leader Responsibilities:
- Put together a team of volunteers that will help meet Team’s objectives
- Delegate responsibilities to team of volunteers
- Be available to speak for 1 hour a week to provide updates
- Be able to spend 5 hours a week managing and inspiring your team
- Provide the team with a vision of the project objectives
- Motivate and inspire team members
- Encourage creativity and constant improvement
- Recognize and celebrate team and team member accomplishments and exceptional performance
- Create an environment oriented to trust, open communication, creative thinking, and cohesive team effort
Here is a list of our current Teams we are seeking leaders for. Feel free to make any suggestions, based on certain strengths you have.
1. Social Media Team
2. Flashmob Team
3. Kindness Mission Team
4. Fundraising Team
5. Research Team
6. Marketing/Advertising Team
7. Graphic Design Team
8. Film Team
Once you’ve submitted a form, we will contact you to set up a phone/Skype interview.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard as a Team Leader!
With kindness and gratitude,
Orly Wahba
Act of the Day: The Power of a Compliment
Sincerely compliment at least three people today and share with us their reaction. Every person you meet has something so beautiful and unique about them, look beyond the exterior and try and find what makes them special!
Act of the Day: The Power of a Phone Call
Call a friend you haven't spoken to in awhile. You never know what good can come from just a simple phone call; your call may be the one they need most today!
So pick up the phone - you have nothing to lose!
A CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS! Turning Inspiration to Action!
GREAT NEWS!!!
Life Vest Inside is working with Habitat for Humanity, an organization that helps build homes for those in need. LVI is volunteering for the day and we are calling on volunteers who would like to turn inspiration into action. We have LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE for the day. The volunteer opportunity is located in New York. If you are interested in joining us, fill out this form and submit ASAP. https://docs.google.com/
A group of Life Vest Inside volunteers will join Habitat for Humanity for the day from 8:45am-4pm assisting in flooring and painting.
*You must be 16 years of age to volunteer. Click on the form to see available dates.
Let's get out there and MAKE A DIFFERENCE by lending a helping hand!
Act of the Day: Become a Life Vest
Run to someone's aid in their time of need. They may only need you to stand by their side while they fight through a rough battle. But sometimes just standing by someone's side is the greatest thing they can ask for.
This act is in honor of a special and dear friend of mine, Cynthia Haddad. I hit a bit of a rough patch today, and she stood by my side the whole way through. She was truly a life vest for me. My upcoming blog goes up to you Cyn!
Go out there and become a life vest for someone else - you may not have much to give, but you can always show you care!
Why Red Bank? The Story Behind The Kindness Boomerang: Part II
Amongst the countless amazing youtube comments people post about the film, some have brought up the question about the location of the shoot.
“Why Red Bank?” many ask. While I’ve only shared the story with those who asked, a couple of days ago a member of the Life Vest Inside page, Susan Melton, sent me a short film titled “Chalk One Up Inspirations”.
As I watched the short film, my mouth dropped, a tear rolled down my cheek, and I realized that it was time to tell the story behind choosing Red Bank as the location for the film. Not simply choosing Red Bank, but choosing that particular area and street. Yes! With me, every choice has its reason.
So here it goes: I began working on the idea for the film in July 2010. Being a teacher allowed me to use my summers productively and I was determined to make the most of it. As a teacher, you’re always on call even during the summer months (at least that’s how it is for me). I love my students very much, believe in them with my full heart, and am happy to be there for them when they need advice. I’ve been lucky to remain in contact with some of my students, even after they venture into high school and college. It was a regular summer day in July. I had just written script for the film and was unsure of where I would actually shoot it.
On that July day, I received a call from a couple of my former students, who were now entering their junior year of high school. They wanted to get together like old times and catch up. I picked them up and we headed into Red Bank to paint in a great little pottery place I love located on Main Street. We’d spend the day painting and catching up on their high school experiences and reminiscing about the amazing memories from 7th and 8th grade.
On the car ride there, they began opening up to me about some of challenges they’re facing in high school from peer pressure, to lack of self-confidence, to everything in between. One of the main things I work on instilling within my students is a sense of self-worth, self-value. They seemed low-spirited and so I began reminding them of what deep in their hearts they already knew, but had forgotten. I reminded them of the amazing potential they have, the amazing people they are, and the unbelievable ways in which I’ve seen them grow during their years in Middle School. We spoke about the importance of believing in yourself, overcoming obstacles, having hope, faith, trust and perseverance. I reminded them to stay true to themselves and recall the hopes and dreams they had written out at the end of their 8th grade year. Naturally, I began speaking to them about Life Vest Inside and the ideas it stood for (Those students were the very same students I mentioned in my previous blog about the how the name of the organization came about). It wasn’t long before the car was filled with the same amazing energy they always had.
We finally arrived in Red Bank and parked. When we stepped out of the car, there beneath our feet the words “Believe in Yourself” were etched into the sidewalk. Arrow signs pointed from one inspiring phrase to the next. “This way to inspiration,” “Have faith,” “Don’t give up,” “You have the potential to do great things” “The power to make a difference begins with you!” Words of courage, faith, hope, and inspiration lined the sidewalk right outside the pottery place we were going to. We were all amazed and taken aback. “We were just talking about this!” the girls yelled in excitement. Then again, knowing the amazing way the world works, I wouldn’t have imagined it any other way.
I looked at the sidewalk and began following the signs, curious to where it was leading. I looked up and it struck me at that moment, this was going to be the place I filmed Kindness Boomerang. What better location to film a Life Vest Inside production then a location that spoke words of inspiration and motivation. It just had to be!
Just as planned the film was shot on that very same sidewalk where the inspirational chalk writing had been. I always wondered who was responsible for writing the inspirational words on the sidewalk and hoped to thank them. I hope this post reaches them one day!
Enjoy this short clip shared by Susan titled “Chalk One Up Inspirations”!
Keep your eyes peeled for the inspirational signs you see throughout your day and share them with us! Signs are all around; let’s increase our awareness to see them!
I’d like to thank my students who are now graduating high school for opening their hearts to be inspired. I’m proud of every one of you!
Act of the Day: A Lending Hand
Offer to take an elderly person shopping (extra special if you do so for your own grandma or grandpa).
This act is inspired by my Mom who volunteered through an organization in my community to take an elderly person she never met grocery shopping. She shared with me the experience she had and it truly touched my heart! Thanks Mom for inspiring me in your own special way:)
Act of the Day: HUGS
Today's act is inspired by a short clip Karen Blanchard shared with me last night. Thank you Karen!
Give someone a HUG (the kind that comes from the heart, not just the arms)
A good 6 second hug has the power to quell a broken heart:)
Check out this film about the Power of a Hug
Act of the Day: Believe in Yourself
Work on feeling good about yourself and not envying others. If something good happens to someone else, try to be genuinely happy for him or her.
If you gave it some thought, you'd realize that
YOU ARE AMAZING and have so much going for you:)
Act of the Day: Quality Time
Spend some quality time with an old friend.
Possibly pick up lunch and surprise them with a visit:)
An old family friend stopped by for a surprise visit yesterday and it made the day all the more brighter:)
Act of the Day: The Power of Good Morning
Greet people in the street with a smile and a kind word.
A simple "Good morning", "Have a great day" can have a greater effect than you imagine.
Try it out and let us know the responses you get.
Act of the Day: Value of Time
Spend time with your parents!
Live far away? Give them a call to remind them of how much you love them:)
Don't have that opportunity? Honor their memory by embodying the great values they instilled within you
Never had the opportunity to meet them? Reach out to that person in your life who you looked up to as a parent
Appreciate the people in your life when they are still there to feel that appreciation.
