THE 3:11 PROJECT IN MONTGOMERY
There are so many organizations in our communities that are formed to assist our fellow neighbors in need, but sometimes it’s hard to figure out where you can make the most impact. I hope that in writing this column, I have been able to shine a light on a variety of foundations that may spark an interest.
The 3:11 Project out of the Fox Valley area is doing something similar, but in a unique, modern way – through social media. The project uses their Facebook page to call out to their Facebook community to find resources needed to help families and individuals experiencing hardship.
Amy Lawler, the Founder and President of the 3:11 Project, was working in the corporate world as a manager and often didn’t get home until after her kids were in bed. She felt like she was working her life away and missing out on her family. Her husband sat her down and asked her, “are you living for your resume or your eulogy?” He explained that at the end of her life, their children won’t care what her job title was or how high on the corporate ladder she climbed. At that moment, she decided to start living for her eulogy and do something that would leave this Earth better than how it was when she arrived.
The 3:11 Project receives referrals from local agencies, churches or charities, and the board helps narrow in on what is needed. Calls are made to other charities and government agencies and a post is made to reach out to their Facebook community to assist with urgent and immediate needs. Examples of past requests are searching for a sofa bed or mattresses for a mom and children who have been sleeping on the floor and raising funds to prevent car repossession for a family with six children. Volunteers help gather items/ funds and distribute accordingly. “I love that I’m learning leadership and communication skills for my future, while still helping others,” says Ethan Irvine (19) Volunteer Program Chair.
“The number one thing that I have heard our community say is that they love being able to scroll through our posts to see if there is something they can fulfill or share,” says Amy. The easiest way for the community to get involved is to follow their Facebook page and share their posts. You can find them at www.facebook.com/The311Project/
Mindy’s December Giving Inspiration: Make or buy some beautiful tree ornaments and hand them out to random people that assist you (e.g. banker, grocery check-out, etc.).
ABOUT THE WRITER Mindy Kyle is the owner of Be Inspired Studios and is passionate about helping people discover what brings them joy and to live a full, healthy and happy life. She has her Masters in Fine Arts degree in creative writing from DePaul University and lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land.
