Sometimes, making a positive impact in the world sounds like a big task. That’s when a practical perspective really comes in handy. Here’s how Alicia inspires positive change.

What does “making a difference” mean to you?

Besides all my volunteer projects, I make a difference by being myself and expressing my passions. I am always trying to make a difference by really thinking about the choices I make everyday — how they affect my life, the lives of the people around me, and the planet. I’m passionate about creating change. And I love sharing ideas with people about how to live healthier lives and positively influence the world.

Fundamentally, I believe life has more meaning when you’re giving something back.

You mentioned that you volunteer. Tell us about your first volunteer project. What inspired you to start?

My mom inspired me. When I was a kid, she was constantly volunteering. Even today, now that she’s retired, she still volunteers all the time.

In one way or another, I’ve been volunteering since I was in elementary school. I started as a girl scout, and then participated in projects throughout high school. In college, I found a great mentor who really helped me discover how much I enjoyed helping people by encouraging me to develop my leadership skills. After I finished graduate school, I worked at a nonprofit directing after school programs and teaching kids about the environment. And that’s what finally led me to the projects I work on today.

What are those projects?

For the past three years, I have been a site captain for I Love A Clean San Diego, which organizes two huge beach clean ups every year. This project really spurred my passion for the environment. A year and a half ago, I followed this passion further by joining the local chapter of the Surfrider Foundation to work on one of its campaigns, Rise Above Plastics (RAP). Its mission is to educate people about the impact of plastics in our oceans, waterways, and lives. Recently I was very honored to be selected as the new RAP coordinator.

Since its founding in San Diego, RAP has spread throughout the world. It has become so well known that Jack Johnson invited RAP along on his recent tour. I got to go to Kansas City and work for RAP at Jack's show. It was an amazing experience!

How much time do your projects require from your schedule? Do you have any advice for people who feel like they’re too busy?

My volunteer work takes about 3-5 hours a week, depending on meetings, emails, and events. On big event months, I spend more time than that. The twice-yearly beach clean up doesn’t take much time at all — just 8 hours. In answer to your second question: I don’t know if I really believe in “being too busy” to volunteer. Life goes by so fast. It’s important to make time for what matters. I think that giving back to the community is sort of everyone’s responsibility. And besides, you’ll personally benefit from it — volunteering makes you a more well-rounded and balanced person.

Once you start doing it regularly, you’ll totally forget you didn’t think you had enough time before. Even if you only volunteer one hour per week, I guarantee you will feel so happy about it.

How have you benefited from your projects?

Everyday I wake up feeling excited about the positive changes that are happening because of the projects I work on. I have met so many amazing people who are working towards change. There is something very special about working side by side with other people who share your passion. It really makes you feel like you are changing the world. It’s such an awesome feeling!

In your opinion, what’s the best way to get started making a difference?

Pick your passion. Then research organizations or events related to it and find out which ones need volunteers. After that, I really think it’s important to start slow and start small. Attend a meeting or go to a local event. Really check things out to see whether the situation is right for you. To make it fun, bring a friend along — sharing your passion always makes the experience richer.

After that — go for it! Even if you don’t think you have the time, make the time. Once you get started, you’ll learn it’s totally worth it.

References:

Rise Above Plastics blog
http://riseaboveplastics.blogspot.com/

Surfrider, San Diego
http://www.surfridersd.org/

Jack Johnson's Village Green
http://www.jackjohnsonmusic.com/greening/