I am a native New Yorker who's life consists of a hectic schedule and moving fast pace.  I've spent most of my life living "uptown" in the Bronx and have had the opportunity to work in multiple settings in my community.  I see, hear, read and in many ways have been personally affected by some of the negative things that occur in the surrounding community.  Despite my busy schedule I wondered what, if anything, I can do to help and where would I start.  My journey began with google. I researched and met with local charities and decided to work with a nonprofit organization  called LeAp. LeAp's mission includes improving the quality of public education by teaching the academic curriculum through a hands-on and arts-based approach. LeAp empowers students to reach their full potential despite any inner-city/community challenges they may face.  My first personal charity event with LeAp to help raise funds and awareness was my birthday party in 2011 which we collected donations and provided handouts and gifts to the public.  The day was also special because I decided to honor my best friend’s brother who was murdered in front of his home a few years earlier.  I worked with family, friends and used social media to advertise the event.  We were able to raise over $2,000 for LeAp in four hours and because of this it was one of the best birthdays I've ever had. A small gesture impacted hundreds of children in my community, my friends, my family as well as myself. Although it may be difficult to find time to volunteer, the benefits of volunteering are enormous to you, your family and your community. The right charity match can help you reach out to the community, find friends, learn new skills, advance your career and possibly change a life, maybe even yours. Starting this year I decided to dedicate a few hours of my time [daily, monthly, or yearly] to some great local organizations, charities and causes.  My goal is to spread the word and encourage friends, family, coworkers and my social network buddies to do the same. Join me to #giveback.  Check out the site for upcoming events that I’m involved in or send me an email at sammysgivebackproject@gmail.com with the volunteer work you are doing with other community organizations so I can post on the site for others to be involved. Remember, we all can make a positive difference in someone's life. Why not start NOW?!