Outward Bound California's annual high-rise fundraising event is back! This year, I'll be rappelling off the 46th floor of the Hilton San Francisco Union Square - crazy! But I wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for a good cause.

Outward Bound is a program that serves youth from lower-income communities. They push kids out of their comfort zone and expose them to the wonderful world of outdoor challenges, community service, and build great future leaders.

I am fundraising for this program, not just because it is awesome, but also because I was granted many full scholarships to participate in their program throughout my entire high school years. Both my parents were hard core addicts and being at home was not safe for me. Aside from the dangers of sitting on used needles that were laying around the house, there was an overload of physical, mental and emotional abuse in my home. I could have easily taken a road that led to self destruction.

Outward Bound gave me alternative options. The program taught me how to push myself to the limit and be strong enough not to take the same path as my parents. As a participant in this program I've learned how to coordinate with others and work towards a common goal, how to be an effective liaison within my community, how to lead others towards positivity, how to set the example for those younger than me, and most importantly (to me at least) how not to give up on anything I want to accomplish. With these skills I’ve grown to be the confident person that I am and now get to pass on these wonderful traits to my kids.

Please help me give back. If I were rich I would kick down all of the non-profit programs that have helped me during my young years. Since I am not, the least I can do is help fundraise for them. Whether it be a tiny amount or a large donation, every little bit helps. Thanks 🥰

P.S. If you’d like to be a part of my fundraising team and want to participate in this event, let me know.

Belynda