Orange Co Social Services Conference

This weekend Orange County Social Services held their annual conference for foster parents and social workers. The theme of this years conference was "Home is Where Your Story Starts". I was asked a few months ago to be the key note speaker for this event and have been highly anticipating it. When I arrived at the venue, I noticed that there was a "Luggage of Love" table that had a pile of luggage stacked on and around it. One of the pieces of luggage was open on the table and inside it was cash and check donations. I had the opportunity to mingle a little beforehand with many of the attendees and it really made me feel good that they all shared in the common interest of helping the foster and shelter youth of today. After eating a delicious breakfast it was time for me to speak to the attendees. I can not tell you how rewarding it was to speak to such a large group. I spoke for a little under an hour and found the audience to be very receptive of my story and thoughts on the roles they play in these childrens' lives.

Once I had finished, there was a quick intermission and then my Mom and I were off to our workshop entitled "Throw Away the Instruction Manuel". I truly enjoy speaking onstage and sharing my story there, but having the opportunity to have people see our story from both mine and my mom's perspective is very informative to say the least. My Mom gives the audience the insight that is needed from an adult care givers view as well as a counselors view. It was such a pleasure talking with those who attended my workshop. I enjoyed hearing many of them tell their incredible journeys and stories that they have encountered working with the system.

I had an amazing time and I would love to thank Orange County Social Services for putting on such a great conference and for allowing me to be a part of it! I will forever remember this day and I thank you for believing in my story and what I am doing. Because of your commitment to the children like myself you help to ensure that each and every child in the system has the opportunity for a better future.

KEYT Channel 3 News Interview with evening news anchor Paula Lopez

What an exciting day I had today! KEYT Channel 3 News did a featured piece on me that is set to air on May 17th during ratings week. What makes this even more special is that the evening news anchor, Paula Lopez, personally did the whole interview on location. The interview started at my house where I sat down with Paula one on one for an in depth interview about my past and its effect on my future, about Luggage of Love the organization I started in June of 2008, and the benefits of being the reigning Miss Teen California International 2010.


Our next destination was a place that is very near and dear to my heart.... Casa Pacifica, the emergency crisis shelter that I used to live at. I love going to the shelter every chance I get, but this time was extra special because not only was this the first time that my Papa would see the shelter, but we were also filming a portion of the interview in my old bedroom in the cottage I use to live in. Carrie Hughes (Assistant Director of Development) took us around the campus and my Mom and I shared our own stories and different perspectives of living and working at Casa Pacifica. While at the shelter I of course had to see Archie who is the therapy dog for the facility. What an amazing asset he his to the shelter! And of course I got the opportunity to visit with Vicki Murphy (Director of Development & Operations) who has the biggest heart of anyone I know and truly loves each and every child like they were her own.I was so happy that the shelter was a part of the piece on me as it is the foundation from where my life all began.

Our final destination was my office for Luggage of Love. Paula and Herb Tuyay (Chief Editor/Photographer) were able to see some of my inventory and I was able to share a little more about the shipping process of the luggage with both of them. They got an opportunity to see all of my awards and view pictures that play an important role in why I choose to make a difference in the life of these children.

It meant the world to me that Paula and Herb spent so much time with me and my family today. I hope that the airing of this interview brings more attention to children living in shelter and foster care and that we are capable of doing great things as long as we are given the tools and foundation to do so. I have chosen not to become a statistic and I hope to inspire others to do the same. I am honored to have been able to share my story and my future plans for Luggage of Love. Thank you to Paula, Herb, Casa Pacifica, and my family for your time and support. You all are a huge part of what makes me who I am today. Please tune in to KEYT Channel 3 or online to view my segment May 17th!

Happy Birthday Mommadoo!

I love you!

1st Luggage of Love Board Meeting

Luggage of Love has an official Board of Directors!!! This was a HUGE step in the right direction. Since we are growing so fast it was important to establish a board for the success of the organization. I am so lucky to have a group of highly qualified individuals who each brings something unique to the table. I am honored that they have chosen to help me achieve my goals and that they believe in my vision. Together as a team we will make sure that no child will have to feel what I did when I left the shelter.

Another pallet of luggage on its way!

Luggage of Love's new office!!!

I am so excited to announce Luggage of Love has a new home. I now have a new office with lots of storage space and a desk to work from. Since completing high school early I can devote a lot more time to Luggage of Love. I have been going to the office on a daily basis. It has started to become a full time job, and a rewarding one at that! I have found this location to be much more convenient to pack pallets and ship from. This is a huge step for Luggage of Love and I am glad that I can share it with you all!

LaMariposa Dinner Dance Auction

Last month I donated my services in order to raise money for my siblings' elementary school. My offering was a "Just Because Princess Party" with Miss Teen California Intl 2010. This package consisted of a party for 9 girls, hair, nails, make-up, and let's not forget the cupcakes! It went for an amazing price of $500.00

I was honored to find out that "Luggage of Love", the organization I founded, was recognized as an event sponsor. Thank you LaMariposa for promoting my cause and believing in what I do.