For all people, actions have consequences, a concept that many seem to forget. Being civically engaged is a responsibility of all people, and we should take pride in having the ability to serve and be involved within our communities at all. Robert Putnam, in his book: Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community (2000), suggests numerous ways in which we can attempt to promote and develop a stronger sense of civic engagement. Fortunately for Putnam, there is an endless list of organizations around the globe that seek to reinforce his suggestions. My cousin, Seve, worked as a part of a team to found a non-profit organization in Austin, Texas, called the Lone Star Victims Advocacy Project, or LSVAP for short. In collaboration with a few of Putnam’s suggestions, Seve and her team work to build community and foster a commitment to the improvement of their clients’ lives. …show more content…
Their mission, as expressed by their board of directors, is to provide much-needed support and assistance throughout underserved areas of Texas in numerous ways, some of which include applications for visas, assistance in occupational authorization, and the education of how to be aware and active in your community (“Who We Are”). Thousands and thousands of immigrants and their families flock to Texas each year seeking refuge and support, and they more often than not fail to receive it. LSVAP seeks to provide essential services and raise awareness about this serious issue, as well as promote a sense of urgency in the public (“National Immigration”). By doing this, they are able to present themselves as a resource to answer questions, address concerns, and simply be there for the victims who have gone years being