Just taking some action (just 2) during frustrating times

I don’t know about you, but I have been frustrated lately by what’s happening in U.S. politics, especially all the things Trump is doing. It feels overwhelming and, honestly, disheartening. As someone who deeply believes in kindness and a better future for America (and the world), I’ve felt a bit paralyzed. While I want to protest/engage/comment/discuss, I don’t feel like that makes an impact, and certainly, Trump doesn't care.  I've had a lot of conversations with friends I respect, trying to make sense of it all and figure out what I can do.

So here’s where I’ve landed - focusing on just two areas I care about deeply that seem especially underappreciated or at risk right now: Clean water and Queer/Trans rights and support.

🌍 Clean Water

I’ve started donating to organizations working to improve access to clean water and protect our oceans. One of them is Splash, a nonprofit I previously served on the board of. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work they do providing clean water to children and communities around the world, especially across Africa and Asia. With US Aid being closed (fucking Elon/DOGE), the work they are doing for poor people in emerging countries is inspiring and needed!

I’m also looking for other organizations dedicated to ocean cleanup efforts—if you have any favorites, I’d love to hear about them. In addition to donating to The Ocean Cleanup, which develops and scales technologies to intercept plastic in rivers and remove it from garbage patches (with the goal of cleaning up 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040), I’m committed to contributing my time through volunteering or getting directly involved. Your recommendations for equally inspiring initiatives would be greatly appreciated.

🏳️‍🌈 Queer and Trans Rights

These are real people whose lives, rights, and dignity are under threat. It’s heartbreaking—and galvanizing. We’ve been supporting organizations like The Trevor Project and Planned Parenthood, both of which are doing critical work for LGBTQ+ youth and reproductive rights. This is work that my daughter, Ray, cares deeply about, and her work at the Aspire Center is inspiring and needed.

We’re donating time, energy, and resources proportionally—not to "fix" everything, but to be part of something. To show up. To support the people out there doing the most challenging work to protect the values and communities we care about.

Talking to others about this approach has been grounding. Even small actions, when intentional and directed, can help us feel a bit less helpless and a bit more hopeful. It reminds me that we can choose how we show up, even when things feel uncertain or heavy. And that matters.

If this resonates with you, or if you have causes or organizations that have helped you navigate this moment, I’d love to hear about them.

Let’s keep showing up.