The Dream Give-away: 50 States, 50 Days, $50,000 Donated…
Our Dream Asignment is to travel to each state in the country, spend a day volunteering with a local non-profit, photograph the people helping and being helped by others, and make a donation of $1,000 to each charitable organization.
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Times are tough. The economy is melting. Houses are being foreclosed. People are losing their jobs. It’s easy to turn on the TV or pick up a newspaper and find plenty of things to be down about. The chance to win $50,000 to pursue a dream photo assignment is an amazing opportunity – but one that feels oddly out of context set against current economic backdrop. What about something radical - why not turn an individual opportunity into a way to make a difference for many?
We want to GIVE THE MONEY AWAY!
Our Dream Assignment is to travel to each state in the country, spend a day volunteering with a local non-profit, photograph the people helping and being helped by others, and make a donation of $1,000 to each charitable organization to help fund their programs: 50 STATES, 50 DAYS, 50 DONATIONS - $50,000 donated to worthy causes across the US!
Education, Affordable Housing, Environmental Protection, Arts & Culture, Children, Civil Rights, Poverty, Health & Human Services – all areas where needs are being addressed by dedicated women and men at non-profits across the country. While a day of volunteer work and a $1,000 donation clearly won’t solve the problems each charity is focused on, by raising national awareness of the organizations we work with, documenting our progress through photographic images and interviews of the people who are truly making a difference, and sharing stories of the positive work being done across the country we hope to create a network effect that inspires others to give as well. In addition to giving away the $50,000 Dream Assignment grant, we will create a new non-profit entity to raise additional funds to increase the positive financial impact we make across the country.
In difficult times, the neediest causes need our help even more. How we care for those less fortunate than us, provide for their needs, protect their welfare, and prepare for the future are some of the most important issues we face during our lifetime. We are hoping for the opportunity to start that process in earnest with your help.
195 Comments
This is the winner. What better use of the prize money. Come on. Vote for this one NOW!
what a way to pay it forward. perhaps you'll return the favor and vote for my project as well. I wish you the best, I have a feeling this one will climb quickly
This is a wonderful idea. Volunteering is a magnificent opportunity. It is a privilege to help those who need help. Selfless work is the most important work anyone can do. I voted for this and hope you consider my concepts as well.
I registered just to vote on this one. Great idea!
PIC'd! Pay it forward.
Love it and I will join in NY as well as add to the $50 theme by adding $50 to the pot! I encourage all who vote to participate in this project once they win!
Best of luck! i'll drive you wherever you need help.
Great idea guys! Good Luck! :)
What a fabulous idea! Wishing you the best of luck. :)
first and foremost, congrats on your marriage. stunning couple!
Your idea here is tremendous - truly extradoniary!!! I do hope y'all win and will certainly support you 100% - especially when you are working in our surrounding states. :) All the best! Love it!!!!
Fabulous idea, good luck
wonderful concept - best of luck!
good luck! keep me posted.
Mia and Scott- good luck!
What a great idea. If you make it to Virginia, I'd be happy to host your volunteer day and coordinate with the charity of your choice. What a fun way to pay it forward and share with so many!
Great idea... and think how many people can be reached with your idea! I've got my fingers crossed!
Very thoughtful idea! Wishing you both all the best!
HANDS DOWN THE WINNER!!!!!!! Anna Grace
Great idea - will spread the word!
What a fantastic idea! You've got my vote!
Great idea!!
Just another idea that you may already have in mind: Some kind of photo album/coffee table book (for sale for charities of course!) of all your documented photos would be just another great thing that could come out of this as well!
Nice job Mia and Scott!
Now that is good karma if I've ever heard it! No one deserves to win more than you two!
xx
Annie
Awesome Idea!!!! You will win this, and will have to do this!! And on top of that you should publish a coffee table picture book form the volunteering efforts further advertising the charitable organizations creating a virtuous cycle, and dedicate the proceeds from book sales to charity as well!!!!!
We are definitely planning to do a video travel blog on the web and a book as well!
Your idea is so inspiring! Like the Great Ricky Bobby says... Shake n Bake! Shake n Bake!
Good luck with your idea, it will surely be a hard one to beat! You guys are an amazing couple.
Sounds like a noble idea - Good Luck
Can I come? What a team! What a team! ecj
What a great idea ! Mia and Scott, you two are amazing !
This is wonderful and original. Good luck! Please check out my idea and toss me a vote :)
What a great idea!!! But wouldnt expect anything else from these two super-smart couple! Go M-Team!
You are both amazing and together can't be rivaled.
This is wonderful!
Get it done!
I love this idea! If you do it, can I come to a state or two with you?!?!
xoJamie
this is a winner for sure!
Rockstar!
Great idea! Best of luck making it happen.
great noble idea. i love it! this gets my pick!
A really wonderful idea!
Fantastic idea. Can't wait to see the photos.
Great idea! Giving back to people.
Beautiful idea - all the best to you both!
In your description, you forgot to mention the part where I tag along like a flea. Perhaps you should update that for full disclosure? Much luck! xo - Stef.
Great idea! Hopefully the winner.
The more, the merrier! We'll be recruiting volunteers in each state...
this looks like a winner what a great idea to give the cash away
Great idea, Mia and Scott. Let me know how I might help! Todd F
Way to live the abundant life. I love it. Good luck.
"Scott and Mia" is the only team in the world with the necessary amount of energy, creativity, organizational skill, and heart to execute such an assignment.
GOOD LUCK!!!
Nice plan, guys! Good luck in the quest, and with such noble cause, you are well on your way.
Need $$$ . Plse visit my state first. You'll find me at the corner of 15th and Market. Great idea !!!
What a model and challenge for all the rest of us. Thanks.
Great idea! Looking forward to your PA pics.
Great Idea Scott and Mia! Heard you got married YAY!!!! All of us at Custom Brokers wish you well. We would also like to add $10 dollars for each state. How do we do that? Suzanne Brose dba Custom Brokers
Great idea & good luck guys! I'm sure many people across the country would love to support your efforts! I do!!!
Awesome idea. Hope you guys make it to the top. Take me with you!
Your idea totally sums up one of my favorite quotes . . .
“Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as ever you can.”
- John Wesley
Best of luck to you both! :)
Fantastic. Great luck to you.
Thank you for your generosity! I hope you win. annie10463
Good luck! Great idea!
Great idea... best of luck!
A great idea and fun, too
best idea ever
Very cool. Please, check me out too when you've got the time.
Very cool concept. So many people would be helped by this idea. Love it.
Unite against the “network” that is scheming votes. Support ideas that are “lost” due to unworthy ideas using low tactics. “Insulin” is not the best idea. Something is wrong here and many fantastic ideas are getting lost due to the “network.” If you like my idea on “Vanishing Cultures,” vote for it.
Awesome idea :) Very similar to mine! Good luck! http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/jenmay/unity-through-community/
Good idea.
People need to vote for this idea and this couple - the best use and prospects for this award, hands down.
Wonderful cause!!! Good Luck! Priya
Great cause! and what a fun way to spread the cheer...congratulations to a wonderful couple!
Good luck
Bravo! Here's my vote - please help me out, too. Thanks!
will join you in california if you win it!
Hye Jin and I are in awe of all you guys do! You definitely have our votes! Let us know how we can help!
Scott and Mia, what are great idea! Good luck!
Good luck Scott and Mia! You guys are not up to no good. :)
What a wonderful idea. If we all just helped one person a day in any way even in the smallest way this world would be a much better place. Good luck
Great idea and best of luck!
I love this idea! check out mine and Pic it if youd like! Congo here I come...
This is a truly amazing way to use the prize money in the most selfless and rewarding way. These guys can make a difference so please everyone vote. Best of luck Scott & Mia.
good luck guys!
Excellent way to use the money...I'm sure you both will truly change the lives of many. Or at least start spreading some sunshine on a much needed economic time!
best of luck guys!
Good Luck Scott... We should catch up when Sheri and I are both in HK again... Take care.
thanks, like it,certainly some good ideas getting lost in the mix amongst all this computer network votes..and if you like mine,about orhpans in USA and Africa, please return the vote!
Great idea guys. Wish I could come along for the ride!
great idea! good luck guys!
Good Luck!!! Even though you wont need it! :)
Love the idea, congrats again to you both on the recent wedding!
Fantastic. What a great way to give back. No doubt you will "get back" a much greater reward.
Great idea. Great way to promote a culture of giving. Wishing you both the best.
This is a WONDERFUL idea! Any amount of money could make a difference for an organization in need of help - and the photography adds a personal and touching aspect to this project. Hopefully the stories and images will go a long way in promoting all 50 groups chosen and drawing more helpers in!
A lovely proposal. So many good people to visit and assist. I look forward to seeing your photos when the project is complete
Like it!
What a WONDERFUL idea . . . best of luck to you both!
Perfect idea, will inspire so many other acts of greatness! Love it.
Just voted :)
LOVE this idea! Love people that help others! Best of luck to you!
Thanks, everyone, for all the support! We made it into the Top 20 (yeah!), but we still have 2 weeks left to make sure we are still here on April 3rd. Please pass the link along to family, friends, colleagues, etc. and ask them to vote. We're really looking forward to making this happen!
Good luck you two - you deserve it!
Great idea. Best of Luck.
Good Luck and Thank You for having an idea that inspires more good news in the world...we could all use a bit more of that. Peace and best wishes.
R:>
Good luck from your friends in Kona, Hawaii. Hope you are the winners!
Very admirable- best of luck!
Great idea, very noble. But if $50k is what you are donating, you'll be out of pocket for all your travel & equipment costs, you know. I can relate, my idea is going to cost more than $50k too.
"Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that."
-Norman Peale
best idea coupled with the best of intentions, not voting for these two is almost a crime. especially since the guy that wants to get payed 50000$ to vacation with his girlfriend in australia is close behind this brilliant and noble idea.
You have a good idea, but it is IMPOSSIBLE with the rules. You do not get to decide where the money goes! They pay for travel and expenses, read the rules carefully. You can't just donate it. Sorry!
For another meaningful idea in our economic times, check out my idea for documenting and increasing the awareness of endangered cultures. nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/clayjar/endangered-cultures-a-language-disappears-every-14-days/
Good Luck Mia & Scott! It's a pleasure to know you!
Clayjar - we've read the rules. With our contribution and $$$ we raise outside the contest we'll be able to donate over $50,000. Our idea is larger than this contest - it's about giving back in a tough time and recognizing people across the country who are dedicating their lives to helping others.
I wonder if you took the time to read the rules???
We certainly did, Toni. The key to dreaming big is not letting the rules be a constraint, but instead a foundation to build something really significant upon.
Great idea, good luck with your ambitious dream. Remember the 50th state. Also take a look at my ideas.
so glad and proud you're part of my family. Hugs and good luck
i think i bumped you to top 20 (or at least a tie for it)... good luck - i don't know how everyone got so many votes, i'm at a measly 35 :(
This is a great idea. I hope you get it!
What a wonderful idea. More people need to do things like this!
Thanks for your support! I love this idea... Good luck to you. Everything happens for a reason! Keep me in mind! Here's a vote back at ya!
Fantastic, good luck!
I voted for you! So now I expect to be in the book for the volunteers in Virgina, New York, Arizona, or Califonia (i'm a vagabond)
The idea sounds great...
But I am just a little confused... if you give away the $50,000 what will you use to fund your trip?
Fazia - we plan to pay for the trip ourselves. We'd much rather see the prize money donated to worthy causes.
What a noteworthy and unselfish idea from two very beautiful people. When I grow up...which is probably never, I want to be just like this couple. They should be an inspiration to everyone they come in contact with, but the joy will ultimately be theirs when they share in what will come to others.
Good for you guys. Hope you make the cut.
Matt
what a great idea! and you two deserve the time away from the city to go on such a lengthy charitable voyage. best of luck to you!
What a wonderful idea! I know you two could pull it off too!
Awesome idea. Hope you guys get it!
You'll be spending your own money to give away money? You're rich in more ways than one!!!
Good luck in your humanitarian pursuit. We're very proud of you both. We'll be praying for your success in this venture. Uncle J & Aunt E
awesome idea, Scott and Mia. Good luck!
Anna thinks this is a great idea too!
451!! Woot Great job!! I just PIC'd you! Please stop by mine and PIC me too! Good Luck with your dream!!
So proud of you two for coming up with this! Aunt V and Uncle M xoxo
This looks incredible.
AWESOME IDEA! GOOD LUCK!
Good luck!
Includes Hawaii and Alaska!
Good luck.
As A fellow vying for this grant, i think you have a real winner here.
Good On Ya for thinking with your heart:)
Thanks for your PIC and good luck on the grant
- Mister Lynch
instilledimages.com
You have my vote. Like the comments before me I would like your support too. I'm trying to reach a personal goal of 100 votes, 5 more to go!
Here's a vote for ya! Best of luck and hope you make to the top 20 if not the top 10!
What a GREAT idea - you got my "pic"!
You definately have my vote -- best of luck!
Good luck!! My fingers are crossed for you :)
wonderful idea. what a way to bring a little happiness to today's world of uncertainty
You have our vote!! The two perfect people for the challenge!
Good luck, Mia & Scott!
Terrific idea...best of luck
Go forth and click
good luck!
You got my vote
I vote yes. Good idea.
You guys are the best!! I voted from my personal and work emails. I hope you win!!
xoxo
jen
I hope you guys win! This sounds great.
good luckk !:)
VERY creative idea! You deserve to win...good luck!
i voted for yours ahve you voted for mine yet? I dont think so...heres my vote and please vote for mine- orphanges america and africa! i have wokre din zimabawe..and am in favor of all altrusitc ideas and worldview ideas!
Fantastic idea god luck!
Good Luck. Your idea is fun and loving. It's great way to see all the ways to volunteer and give in our communities. Maybe I ride with you and play BINGO in each state. (just a heads up, I do snore, but I make delicious homemade beer which I can pack in the RV before we head out).
Inspirational!!!!
Here you go. Here's a vote for you, and more still, the hope that you go ahead and do this regardless. I appreciate your willingness to turn the focus on others. Good luck. x
Great Idea!
Having volunteered my time for many efforts I have wished many times I could also give financial support to the causes I care about. I love your idea and hope you win this contest and make it happen!
In my opinion, this is the best idea. I hope it wins.
Great Idea! You got my blessing!
Thanks to everyone for all of the support!! Two days to go - please pass on to your friends and family. We need more votes to stay in the Top 20!!
A great idea from two amazing people...you definitely have my vote!!
good luck!
Love this! Good Luck!!!!
Good Going!!! Keep it up!!! I can't believe you do not have thousands of votes for this brilliant idea!! Cheers!!!
cool idea :) you got my vote, good luck!
Nice idea! muchos besos
good luck guys love your idea :)
hey! i didn't expect to get PIC'd so soon! i thought i responded with a comment hours ago, but i guess it didnt go through?? anyway i'm actually starting a web-based charity based in LA, if you're interested, email me at [email protected] and i'll send you the link! thanks again, cheers!
Great idea-good luck!
So amazing! Good luck and thanks for always thinking of Fiver!
Great Idea! Good Luck!
GOOD LUCK GUYS:)
Good luck!
Great idea! Best of luck - Jim G
kudos!
Not at all surprised you've come up with this generous and productive endeavor. Bravo. Good luck.
Great idea guys! Keep it going and best luck to you!
Great idea! My project is over at http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/Lacey/global-artist-initiative/ I'd like to keep in touch and be of any assistance of your projects down the road. You can find me at http://laceylampe.artlogsites.com/
Great Idea. Best of luck.
I like your idea, check out mine and vote for me if you like it. Its about poverty and society in 3rd world countries and how they are controlled, devastated by their governments and western industrialized nations.
Hi- I have a project here to - the Snapshot Initiative, I am a friend of Sarah Johnson and this is how I heard of this contest through you! Thanks for the amazing experience- although its only been a few days for me.. I am curious how people get so many votes!! Best of luck to you! Katie
Good luck !
What an amazing opportunity! Very ambitious. I hope you get the chance to travel the country, hear peoples stories, and capture those beautiful moments on film. Good Luck!
FatherJohn
Is this a repost? I think I supported it before so will do so again.