When a friend asked for my help to promote her charity, I suddenly found myself doing pro bono work as a web designer, writer, film producer, CRM expert and event planner along with my regular day job. But I’m glad I said yes as it’s been the most rewarding work I’ve done in my marketing career.

 The Love Quilt Project teaches American school children that they can have an impact on other people’s lives through an in-class lesson that enables them to brighten the lives of kids in South Africa who are orphaned by the HIV / AIDS crisis. The students draw messages of love and encouragement on art squares which quilters turn into stunning quilts. The quilts are delivered to orphan homes where South African kids get their own quilt along with a stipend to pay for their education. The emotional impact of knowing someone cares is extraordinary. Helping with their educations is the legacy.

I travelled to South Africa to shoot the lesson plan video as well as a marketing video to help us raise money from corporate sponsors. I built the website and started a CRM program for donors. I help maintain the Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. And I helped organize two gala events to raise money with the help of the actor and benefactor, Patrick Wilson. We’ve produced hundreds of quilts, raised thousands of dollars, taught thousands of American students the power of love and have helped lift hundreds of South African kids out of poverty through education.