Dear UM,

As a writer, it’s hard for me to argue that actions speak louder than words. On the flip side, I’ve always felt compelled to take the initiative to right perceived wrongs.

When I was five-years-old, I made my parents transcribe an angry letter to McDonald’s after they refused to give me a Hot Wheels car instead of the Barbie with my Happy Meal. Since then, I’ve signed numerous petitions, cleaned various East Coast beaches, and accrued more than 600 volunteer hours at the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key, Florida.

So when we at Distraction decided to create “The Issue That Gives Back,” I thought this was the perfect opportunity to combine words and actions.

Giving back takes many forms. It’s about community service and volunteering. It’s about protecting the environment, feeding the hungry, and helping the sick. It’s about giving gifts during the upcoming holiday season. It’s about making the world a better place in any way that works for you.

So get out there. Take some hints from the inside pages. But whatever you choose, DO SOMETHING.

Peace, love, and rock & roll,

Hilary Saunders, Editor-in-Chief