An Overview of the Tzu Chi Foundation in America and their Inspiring Solutions for me

In Chinese, "tzu" means compassion and "chi" means relief. That literal translation of Tzu Chi USA embodies their values and mission as an international NGO humanitarian organization.

Growing up, I attended a Buddhist elementary school. Though I no longer attend Hongwanji Mission School, the Buddhist ideals and ethics, such as "The Golden Chain of Love," have sculpted and influenced the person I am today. Therefore, when I read about Tzu Chi online and learned about its purpose and the various ways that it serves the community, I immediately recognized it as an organization that values the same principles I integrate into my life.

Globally, Tzu Chi does charity work, provides medical care, has schools and universities worldwide, which are just some of the services that they do and offer. When a tragedy or disaster happens, many people immediately blame "the other side" to criticize them as to why this happened and why it could have been prevented. However, the Tzu Chi Foundation immediately jumps into action and helps those in need. For example, the organization aided tornado relief in San Antonio, Texas in 2017. They distributed various disaster aids and brought much relief and comfort to those who were affected. Tzu Chi inspires me because when a disaster happens, these volunteers pull together and form a community to help those in need. I witnessed a lot of that as part of my work through Girl Scouts.

Additionally, I also learned about Tzu Chi's presence in Hawai'i. As I researched how Tzu Chi contributes to my island community, I was very impressed with the range of work and service that they provide, as well as how its philosophy perfectly fits the Hawaiian values. For example, Tzu Chi's Hawai'i's chapter feeds the homeless, provides free medical services, and even collaborate with the American Red Cross on shelter operations. They also create public awareness of environmental issues and also positively impact the environment by conducting clean-ups at beaches and other popular sites. It is evident Tzu Chi exhibits the values of malama 'aina (respect and caring for the land), lõkahi (unity, harmony) and aloha (love and compassion) in their work. Furthermore, quoted on the Hawai'i Tzu Chi branch's website is the phrase, "We are working tirelessly on many fronts to make sure this paradise is not lost for good." To me, this further proves that this organization shares the same values of humanity, compassion and especially environmental awareness and conservation. Their actions are monumental and encourage my participation in the betterment of the world.

I believe that the Tzu Chi Foundation is sending the right message to the world by taking action in times of disaster. In a society where it is evident that many people are concerned about themselves, the Tzu Chi Foundation is an example of what American society ultimately should be like: a community of people that come together to support one another, not only in times of need. Their impact not only in the U.S. but also globally is truly inspiring and shows a great about the people who are a part of this organization. Due to all the great things Tzu Chi stands for, I would be honored to be a part and feel that I can represent those characteristics should I receive this scholarship. Thank you for considering me as a candidate for this opportunity for compassion to support a first generation college student who will give back to the community through my medical endeavors.

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