Just four years ago, I got involved with Cystic Fibrosis Lifestyle Foundation (CFLF) to give back some Time, Talent and Treasure (the 3T’s). For many years my family and friends have supported many cystic fibrosis non-profit organizations with donations, volunteer time and participation in fund raising events like Great Strides.

At a young age I learned about giving back and volunteering. My dear Mom, a polio survivor volunteered time and raised funds for the March of Dimes as soon as she was able to move on with her life.  In the 1950’s she had all her children helping collect dimes for polio. She also volunteered for church and school activities. When my sister, Loretta was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in the 1960’s, CF became her charitable focus. In 1970, she received the Breath of Life Award from the San Fernando Valley Chapter of the National Cystic Fibrosis Research Foundation. The award was given to recognize “her inspiration, extra degree of effort and extra spark of enthusiasm.”

Throughout my own life, I have enjoyed many volunteer opportunities: serving on civic and non-profit Boards and Commissions; working on community projects such as the restoration of the Ventura Pier, and open space conservancy; and volunteering as a literacy and English as Second Language (ESL) tutor.

In 2010 I was looking for a new opportunity. After many years of lung problems, I was diagnosed with CF and learned about CFLF’s Recreation Grant Program via a link from Foundation Care Pharmacy.  With over 40 years’ career experience as a park and recreational professional and consultant, I am keenly aware of the multiple health benefits recreation programs and facilities bring to individuals and communities. My own active lifestyle, filled with fitness, recreation activities and volunteering is the reason I am still around.

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I work closely with CFLF staff in reviewing grant applications and making grant awards. The youngest grant recipient is just nine months old and the oldest 54 years old.  It is the highlight

of my day when a thank you from a grant recipient is shared with me.  Comments from grant recipients demonstrate the benefits of recreation and exercise for healthy lifestyles.

Horseback riding allows me to practice relaxation of my mind and body. I leave the stables feeling refreshed and happy. It is a very good leg and core workout. – Kayla Hays, Wisconsin

Thank you from the bottom of my heart and lungs for this amazing grant. It is helping me to achieve my goals of swimming in the world transplant games. I thinks that this grant program is an amazing opportunity for CFers to get involved with exercise.  - Anna Modlin, California

Thank you for awarding me the dance grant. I love to dance and this grant really helps my family to pay for it. - Sofia Valdez, California

So each day I look forward to giving back, staying healthy and sharing my Time, Talent and Treasure with CFLF and other organizations. I also currently serve as Treasurer on the CFLF Board and assist on a few of the Board’s committees. Somehow the Outreach Committee got this reluctant blogger to write a few posts.