December 19, 2007, changed my life dramatically as I became a proud mother of a beautiful baby girl, Giulianna. Even though, I had always followed the straight, narrow path and always abided as a loyal community citizen…I changed! I realized that I made a human being and was now adding to the human race. I always knew I was destined for great things, and now I was a given a gift. The gift that I would become a mentor to my daughter, and show her all the great splendors in giving to others and the value of changing lives with just a smile and a warm heart. At this time, I was on maternity leave, and watched ‘Oprah’ religiously. I was instantly inspired by ‘Oprah's Big Give’, in which people across the country were giving their time and energy to help those in need. I thought to myself…”Wow, wish I could do something to change lives”. It wasn’t until I returned to work, and being a HUGE community activist was attending fundraisers, events, Board meetings (as I sat on six boards in the community) and realized flyer-by-flyer that there was a GAP in the system. Hundreds of Non-profits in one community, and the vast majority of citizens would be able to think of only a handful! 

 

AHA! 3:00 AM one morning, I woke up my husband and said, “I got it! I got it! iWannaHelp!”  My husband asked me nicely to go back to bed, and we’ll discuss it in the morning, but I couldn’t go back to sleep, and went to the computer and purchased the domain: www.iWannaHelp.net (www.iWannaHelp.com and www.iWannaHelp.org were taken at that particular time. Now we own them J)

Within 1 week of my 3:00 AM wake-up call, I met the right people at the right place, and at the right time. All stated, “I’ll be on your board!” without hesitation. At that moment, I knew my vision was becoming a reality. So, in August 2008, we formed: iWannaHelp.net inspired by my daughter, Giulianna, and ‘Oprah’s Big Give’.

 

This non-profit organization is designed to be a home for: charities, businesses, animal shelters, schools, students, adoption agencies, foster care programs, general public, and many more. In addition to share scholarship information, volunteer opportunities, donations, etc. Basically, "Bridge the gap between people in need and those that wannahelp".

 

Most importantly, our efforts empower the general public to nominate a cause in their community, so that we may help by hosting a fundraiser to help an individual or family in need!

 

Lastly, within one month of establishing our non-profit, I saw a donation can in an ice cream shop (Regina’s Ice Cream) on Fifth Avenue in Naples, Florida. I asked the owner, if the child was a local boy, who’s picture was on the donation can, and he said yes. I connected with the person whose phone number was on the donation can, as the boy needed a transplant. He was born without an immune system, and looked about the age of my daughter, Giulianna. My heart sank, and I knew I was going to help Baby Adam as our first fundraiser! Within 1 month, we held a lovely fundraiser at the BellaSera Hotel, in Naples, Florida, and we raised $4100.00. ALL the proceeds went to Baby Adam, and a portion to American Cancer Society.

 

I recently heard back from Baby Adam’s mother, and Adam’s transplant was successful. She stated that she was grateful for our efforts, and that we DID make a difference.

 

If ALL else fails, I know now….At least I made a difference in one person’s life!

I helped Baby Adam!

 

AND…if you’re still reading this, YOU also believe that YOU can make a difference! 

 

We have had an overwhelming response from the general public, and many have asked, "How do I help?"

 

Simple! Join us NOW as a member, and support us in our journey to take this nationally…

 

Thank you,

Best & Warmest Regards,

 

Rosalia Podolak

President/Founder

iWannaHelp.net

 

 

P.S. Oprah, whenever you’re available I would love to meet you!

 

 

Special Thanks to:

Devoted Board of Directors, Committee Members, Sponsors, Family and Friends!

“If one person can make a difference, think of the results we would see if we work together!”

 

*All rights to the trademarks 'Oprah', 'Oprah's Big Give', and 'American Cancer Society' are the property of the individuals and entities owning such rights and no claim is made by iWannaHelp.net or any of its officers, directors, employees or agents to any such rights.