Lawrence and his brother Kevin volunteer with a group that provides "hands-on" help to others.



What kind of philanthropic or volunteer work did/do you do?

Lawrence: For the past 3 years, my brother Kevin and I have volunteered with my mother’s nonprofit organization called "Care Express Home Care.”  Its service area is Atlanta and Dekalb and Cobb Counties.  We feed elderly and disabled people for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.  We take clothes to the women and children’s shelter every winter, we help teen mothers by making baby gift bags that include formula, baby soap, and other baby items.  We also help take old people to the store and help crippled men shop for clothes and shoes.

What inspired you to get involved?

Lawrence: My mother inspired me to get involved because she always says you have to help people and God will bless you.  It’s her company and I have to help her.

What is/was the best thing about your experience?

Lawrence: The best thing is that I know I helped someone who did not have something.

What is/was the hardest part?

Lawrence: The hardest part is when I really want something like some new tennis shoes or a new jersey, and my mother says no because we have to feed a family or we have to buy diapers for some people. It’s hard because a lot of the people don't say thank you and I feel like they don't appreciate the things my mother does.  My mother does a lot for people and nobody pays her. So it sometimes makes me mad and angry.

What was the biggest surprise?

Lawrence: The biggest surprise was last Christmas when my brother and I thought we were not going to get anything but my mother gave us a play station 2 and some clothes. We had to help 2 people get their lights turned back on and buy food for 3 families. So I thought we couldn't get a gift for Christmas, but my mother surprised us after we delivered all the food.

What new things have you learned as a result of your experience and how have you changed as a result?

Lawrence: I have learned that I'm blessed. I'm lucky to have my mom and I don't get mad when we have to go and help people any more. I have learned that you have to give something to help people in this world in order to be blessed.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of getting involved in philanthropy or volunteering?

Lawrence: I advise people to volunteer with groups that help people hands-on. Go out to the houses, help cook, talk to the old people, give them a hug. In the end you will feel so good about the help and love you gave.

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