How long have you been involved with CARE and why did you want to get involved?

My goal has always been to work with organizations that lift up women and girls. This year a dear friend of mine joined CARE’s executive team and as I learned about the organization’s history and mission to eradicate poverty by giving women and girls the tools they need to reach their full potential, I was inspired to join CARE. I truly believe that women and girls have the power to change the world and know that CARE is helping them to do it.

Can you describe some of the activity you’ve done so far with CARE?

This year I was part of CARE’s “Her in Hero” campaign for International Women’s Day. To celebrate the day I attended a dinner hosted by CARE’s partner Olivela in Los Angeles. Last month, I joined CARE on International Day of the Girl in a program at a local elementary school where 7 actresses, including myself, shared stories of girls who have faced barriers to attending school, but with their own perseverance and CARE’s help they have triumphed. In addition, CARE partnered with the Care Bears on an auction where I got to design a bear benefitting the women and girls. Finally, I am looking forward to traveling with CARE next year to see their remarkable work in person.

What advice would you give young women today or your younger self?

Go forward despite fear.

What causes are you most passionate about?

I want to empower women and girls by allowing them to take control of their health, their education and when they start a family. By providing support systems to allow women to continue their education and receive the health care they need, they will be less reliant on men and be able to have a greater impact on their communities.

Why do you think it’s important to give back to those less fortunate?

We cannot function as a society without looking at the weaknesses within it and breaking the cycles of oppression and societal standards that hold us back from moving forward. As the world changes, we have to evolve with it, and we have to lift up those around us in order to evolve. We have to show and practice compassion.

Who is your inspiration in life?

My mom!

What are your plans for the holiday season?

I’m working and traveling up until the holidays, so I will spend time with family.