Walk the Talk: An Author Gives Back

One of the best things about being an author is planning a book launch party. I know many of my author friends skip this step in their publishing career, but I welcome it. Celebrating an accomplishment is never a poor choice, although the amount of planning, preparation, and strategy can be daunting. Until meeting with my publisher’s event coordinator, the idea of a book launch gave me a headache.

During our meeting, I presented an idea that would make my book launch for Girl on the Right: Memoir of a Life Upside Down more meaningful, and less about me. Here goes…

While my launch party will include the traditional activities of book signing, reading, and Q & A session, it will also be a fundraiser. The idea stems from the content of my book, which touches on mental health issues and childhood sexual abuse. As a self-proclaimed “champion for women,”  and CSA survivor, I feel the need to walk the talk.

That said, there will be a “Name Your Price” feature for books sold at the event. The cost to purchase the paperback version of Girl on the Right: Memoir of a Life Upside Down will be determined by YOU!  That’s right, you name the price. I will take the first $5 to cover printing costs, and any money collected above that amount will be donated to Family and Children’s Services of Mid-Michigan.

“Family and Children’s Services of Mid-Michigan (FCS) is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian, multi-service agency specializing in quality treatment and support services designed to nurture family relationships and enhance the well-being of individuals.”

I recently supported FCS as a marketing & promotions volunteer for the Great Lakes Bay Mom Prom event held in February. It was a wonderful way for me to give back using my time and talent. Using my author platform, I can add “treasure” to that list.

I will never have enough time, talent, or treasure to fully give back to the people and organizations that have helped me through, but I can use what I have, when I have it, to support services that others will benefit from. We can all make a difference in our little part of the world, it just requires creativity and heart.

Bella Vida,

TT