Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

This World Refugee Day, Benevity, the market leader in workplace giving, volunteering and community investment software, announces that donations made through its award-winning cloud solution to human rights and refugee causes have increased 6 times year-over-year since the Executive Order banning travel by nationals of 6 Muslim-majority countries in January 2017.

From a young age, Mariela Shaker was a gifted violinist. At the age of 10, she joined the Arabic Institute of Music in Aleppo, Syria, graduating in 2004 with distinction. She then began traveling across Syria to perform in various festivals and concerts, eventually returning to the institute to teach music to a new generation of students.

"I volunteer because I want to impact change, not only in my community but in the world," said Jonathan Meeks, NFL safety – an unrestricted free agent who previously played four seasons with the Buffalo Bills. Jonathan uses his platform to give back, locally and around the world.

"I volunteer because I enjoy putting smiles on other people's faces," said Coty Sensabaugh, cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Coty finds every excuse to help others – even at his own wedding, where in lieu of gifts, he and his wife, Dominique, asked guests to donate shoes or money to Soles4Souls. Accompanied by friends and family, the newlyweds traveled to the Dominican Republic and distributed more than 500 pairs of shoes to adults and children in need. Through his involvement with the group, Coty has helped collect more than 11,000 pairs of shoes.

"I volunteer because of the young men who look like us, who are in the same situations as us, who need mentors," said Jared Cook, tight end for the Oakland Raiders. Off the field, Jared can often be found giving back – whether it be helping out through fundraising events or volunteering to help provide food to people in need. The importance of service was instilled in him early on, by parents who encouraged him to “count your blessings.”

"I volunteer because I care for future change. In 20 years I want to look back and see how much this world has changed, and know that I was a part of changing it,” said Sam Barrington, NFL linebacker – an unrestricted free agent who previously played three seasons with the Green Bay Packers.

"I volunteer because I want to see real change in our communities," said Michael Thomas, safety for the Miami Dolphins. Dedicated to giving back, he was one of the first NFL players to participate in the First Step Program – an initiative led by Daily Point of Light Award honoree Scott Van Duzer that gives kids and teens the opportunity to engage with community leaders on a regular basis, coming together for casual pick-up games, mentoring and small group discussions on community issues.

In the context of our interconnected 21st century social, political, economic and ecological challenges, the critical distinction between complexity and reductionism is far from a trivial one. It is, in fact, a life or death insight.