Dear John,
As 2020 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on how Breathe SoCal can continue to make a difference in the communities we serve. My thoughts remain on the children, seniors, and families across Southern California as we work to overcome the challenges of COVID-19, wildfires, racial and social inequality, and more.
Yes, this year has been unlike any other but there is hope! Our focus remains on two basic human needs: clean air and healthy lungs. At Breathe SoCal we believe lung health education and environmental stewardship create a pathway to stronger and more empowered communities across our region. Only through working together can we build a stronger network of communities that will truly change the world.
You can make an impact by joining me in making a gift that will serve more youth and families in need with life transforming services.
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Donate to serve as a voice for the most vulnerable |
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It is important that we follow and advocate for environmental legislation that impact the communities we serve. At Breathe SoCal we make it our goal to provide factual information to residents that will help them make informed choices on their health.
One of our current priorities is legislation that aims to fund research, provide outreach, and increase early diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), to help patients live longer and with a greater quality of life.
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Raj Dhillon, Senior Manager of Advocacy and Public Policy explains, “I am proud of the work our department has done to continue to stress the importance of air quality and lung health, especially to our elected leaders at the local and state level. Despite the immense challenges we have grappled with this year, we are proud to advocate for all families and individuals living in Southern California. Being able to connect the dots between action and impact is a powerful tool to protect the most vulnerable community members among us. We have connected virtually with elected officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to advance priorities that will make us safer and healthier. Your gift of any amount will make a positive impact in our effort to advocate for better lung health and air quality for all."
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Give to provide technology that will reach more communities in need |
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Our Programs Team has used our technological resources to raise awareness about clean air, lung health, and environmental issues that are especially important in disadvantaged and low-income communities. We’ve transitioned our youth educational programs to online learning. We’ve also provided informational webinars on Zoom and Facebook Live with expert panelists discussing current topics like wildfires and COVID-19. We’ve made these sessions interactive. We’ve also provided sessions with information about electric vehicle rebates and clean energy savings. |
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Gilmar Flores, Senior Manager of Programs and Research, underscores the importance of using multiple tools to increase awareness about clean air and lung health, “My team and I were able to convert our educational workshops from in-person programs to online webinars within a couple of weeks thanks to the support of our partners and the 200 community organizations we collaborate with to provide our educational programming. Our goal is to improve lung health in the communities we serve and those that need it most. COVID-19 made our objective even more essential as those we serve are often at a greater risk.”
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I'd like to recognize my team on their compassion and innovative work to serve those in need everyday. I remain grateful for our partners, sponsors, and committed volunteers who have placed their trust in our ability to engage communities, increase awareness, and provide important resources. May we move forward with strength, compassion, and good health, and may we all Breathe Easier™ in 2021.
With Heartfelt Thanks,
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Marc Carrel
President & CEO
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P.S. Even as we share holiday wishes with you, we are always thinking of the many students and families who need our help. Thank you for keeping our diverse communities in your heart, today and every day. |
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“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” ~ Coretta Scott King |
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