by Shawn Boday | Feb 28, 2018 | Business, Uncategorized
All around the world, there are organizations whose sole purpose is to help others. Most of these, are nonprofit organizations. With so many causes that need the support of society, it isn’t hard to find one that you can help. Being a part of a community, of any size, includes giving to those who are less fortunate. There is great value for all parties when community involvement and engagement has a strong presence. Here are just a few ways that you can gain from giving.
Perspective
One of the most powerful takeaways from working with those in need is a new outlook in life. Especially for first time volunteers or donors, seeing the people who need the aid from nonprofits, can leave a lasting impression. These encounters often help us see that what we have is good. Life could be a lot worse and getting a glimpse into that life can drastically jolt one’s perspective. There is no greater gift then understanding the true meaning of being grateful for what you’ve got in your life.
Business Benefits
If any for-profit company doesn’t give back to their community, they are doing it wrong. Sure, the CEO can write a check every year, but the entire company does not benefit from the donation. Coming together and collaborating to help others is a fantastic way for teams to bond. Many organizations offer incentives to companies who send large groups to volunteer. In addition, it is a great way to build up a positive reputation within your community. Patrons are more likely to choose a business who partakes in philanthropic acts over ones who refrain.
Health & Wellness
If the first two reasons weren’t enough for you, this will surely spark your urge to get your charity on. Those who participate in volunteer opportunities gain countless health and wellness benefits. Mental and physical health, both improve from partaking in charitable acts. Choosing an event that includes physical activity (5k run, donation drive, children’s activities) keeps one in shape while contributing to the community. Additionally, those who work closely with nonprofits often have less stress in their lives. Less stress means a clearer conscious and improved mental health.
by Shawn Boday | Dec 29, 2017 | Business
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or JDRF is dedicated to supporting patients with Type 1 or juvenile onset diabetes and their families. The foundation also promotes research toward eliminating the disease and advocates for legislative support for patients and families. Since its inception,
JDRF has contributed $2 billion in research funding toward the disease.
Research
Through its fundraising activities, JDRF helps to pay for life-saving research into the causes and prevention of juvenile diabetes, as well as daily management of its symptoms. The organization is currently involved in several different research fronts, including the artificial pancreas and beta cell replacement.
The artificial pancreas is a new medical device that provides blood sugar control 24 hours a day. Monitoring blood sugar levels, the device provides the patient with a targeted amount of insulin and other hormones to stabilize the patient. This device has the potential to greatly simplify the lives of Type 1 diabetics.
With beta cell replacement, patients may be able to stabilize their condition for months at a time. The small implant delivers insulin-producing cells directly into the bloodstream. When approved, this implant will revolutionalize diabetes treatment.
Advocacy
JDRF is an important voice for patients and their families, encouraging lawmakers to consider the needs of Type 1 diabetics when making health care and financial decisions. JDRF is also involved in securing research funding through government programs. The organization has also been a strong supporter of protections for pre-existing conditions, benefiting not just Type 1 diabetes sufferers, but patients with all chronic diseases.
Recently, their Coverage2Control program has successfully persuaded some of the largest insurance companies to cover the artificial pancreas system. The JDRF also supported the coverage of insulin replacement systems through Medicare.
Family Support
JDRF is involved in providing day-to-day support for patients and their doctors. The JDRF web site features a wealth of health care information for child and adult patients with the condition. The web site provides one-on-one support for patients as well as hosting online support groups. The web site also has a section focused on the day-to-day care of the disease, including symptoms and treatments.
Leadership for the Community
Combining research, advocacy, and patient support, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is an invaluable part of the medical community. Its research promotes better living for patients with the condition.