Poseidon Apparel

Hey everyone! It's been a while, I know!

Before I tell you all about how the ISCE went in China, I want to tell you about a way you can help Operation Smile and your wardrobe right now!

One of my best friends Alexander Bischoff has been involved with Operation Smile for 4+ years. We met at my first ISLC in  San Diego in 2008. Since then, we have grown up in this cause and in many other ways as great friends. Alexander went on a medical mission to Guwahati, India in December of 2009 where he was moved (as many of us are) to be a lifelong humanitarian and make moves.

I remember us talking the night before he left to India and he was telling me that he had a lack of OpSmile shirts (As students, we are required to wear OS gear every day on the mission) and so he made his very own OpSmile V-Necks. I think it's safe to say that after the mission, the two ideas meshed perfectly in his head and Poseidon Apparel was born.

A few years later, Alexander has successfully started his own movement called Style for Smiles under Poseidon Apparel. I think he explains it best:

"Poseidon Apparel is a clothing company dedicated to offering fashionable clothing to humanitarian-minded people aspiring to make a difference in the world.

The principle is simple: 50% of every purchase is donated to Operation Smile. These donations are then used towards life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries.

Your role in creating a sea of smiles has a second effect: awareness. By wearing Poseidon Apparel products, you not only promote Operation Smile, but also the ideology of giving back in a world benefitted by selflessness. 

No one expects you to change the world... but what if you did?"

-Alexander Bischoff

Remember, it only costs $240 for a child to receive an operation that will transform his or her life. With 50% of the proceeds from each shirt donated to OpSmile, you can really make an impact on someone's life, forever. 

In just one month since it's debut, Poseidon Apparel has sold hundreds of shirts to grow awareness all over the world and has sponsored 6 surgeries. 

Student sporting Poseidon Apparel at the International Student Cultural Exchange in Bejing, China.

You can help the movement by purchasing your very own fashionable t-shirt, v-neck, crew-cut, or scoop neck available in a variety of colors and styles. I personally love my Poseidon Apparel, and I know you will too.

Operation Smile Co-Founders, CEO, Student Programs Staff, College Council and Executive Leadership show off Poseidon Apparel with Jackie Chan in Bejing, China

Connect with

 Poseidon Apparel

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ISCE Countdown

is down to 21 days!

I’ve been thinking a lot about this conference lately (obviously), and I’ve realized that I’ve been getting really excited about China. Being in China, traveling to China, and experiencing China. I guess you could say at times I’ve lost sight of the reason why we’re going to China. While the offsite activities, games, parties and the excitement are indeed a huge part of the conference, I’ve been able to fully reflect about how much I truly love Operation Smile and how life-changing it has been.

4 years ago this August, I attended my very first ISLC. I remember feeling overwhelmed and intimidated by all these incredible people who had accomplished so much in life at such a young age. Claire Crawford (now on the College Council) was on my team and I remember she wore this gorgeous dress and had this amazing flaming red hair and everyone knew who she was (duh, she started her own charity for crying out loud!). She won a fancy award at the conference and was the most humble, beautiful person I’d ever met- inside and out. Being a 15 year old child straight out of junior high, I was intimidated. Never in my life did I think I would someday go on a medical mission, serve on the ELC, win one of those fancy awards myself and most of all, be receiving letters in the mail, having heart to hearts on the couch and becoming great friends with the one and only Claire Crawford.

ISLC '10 Denver

That is just a super simple version of a really beautiful story of friendship and tender mercies, among many, many, others. I hope that you can get excited about the inspiring speakers you will listen to, the lifelong friendships you will create, and the intense love you will feel for a cause and people all over the world that you don’t even know.

I think all can agree that the beauty of Operation Smile is that you don’t have to be on the operating table under the scalpel to have your life changed forever. It is mission that heals smiles on faces and hearts in people, and that’s when you know you’ve got something special.

See you so soon!!

Lisa

Q&A

Hello! I know so many of my new readers have lots of questions for me. Please leave your questions in the comments below and I'd love to answer them as best as I can.

Hope my regulars are getting excited for China! We are getting so close!

Thanks for stopping by! :)

Lis

Vivint Gives Back

Help OpSmile win part of the 1.25 million dollars Vivint is giving away to a charities through the Vivint Gives Back project. Just log into your Facebook, follow the link and endorse Operation Smile!

Here's your first click! 

It takes 20 seconds and we need your help! Spread the word!

Chanhassen, Minnesota

Who are you?

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan

I have family and friends in Japan.

After a grueling day of not finding anything out, I found out most of my family is alive and ok. Friends are ok as well- despite being very harshly hit. We still have some friends who are unaccounted for, but we will find out as soon as we can. 

So far, we have been so blessed. Thank you for your thoughts, love, texts, hugs, and prayers. It has helped so much. 

Please continue to keep Japan in your thoughts and prayers. Please also help those around you who may, like me, have friends and family there. It is heartbreaking for me and it has been the most emotionally taxing day I've had in a long time. 

Thank you.

Summer Mission Training Workshop 2011

The newest class of Winter Mission Training! | January 2011 | Virgina Beach

SUMMER MISSION TRAINING WORKSHOP 2011

When: July 28- 31, 2011 (not including travel)

Where: Beijing, China

Who: YOU

For those interested in applying for Summer Mission Training, applications may be found here. 

Applications are to be postmarked on or by MARCH 15, 2011

(note this is much earlier than in years past)

We encourage you to apply if you meet the application criteria, which include:

• Being over 16 at the time of your mission (1-6 months after training)
• Having been involved with Operation Smile for at least one year
• Demonstrating exceptional leadership within a student club
• Attendance at at least one ISLC (Denver 2010, Virgina 2009, San Diego 2008 etc)

Among other requirements. 

Applying for a mission is a serious and huge responsibility, but the most rewarding thing that could ever happen to you. Mission Training is an exciting and humbling honor- not all who apply are accepted with their first application, and not all who participate receive a mission at the end of that weekend (even though you WILL be given a *mystery mission* and WILL be given a mission assignment soon). However, it is so much fun and you will make and keep many amazing friends and share fun memories, all while learning how to change the world! :)

Please keep in mind that participants in Summer Mission Training will be required to attend the ISCE, as SMT will also be held in Beijing.

Good luck, and get going!! :)

ISCE Registration CLOSED

Wow.


Pretty much all I can say after the massive influx in registrations for our conference. Normally, we have priority deadline, and then the final deadline for registration. This year, the EARLY registration had to be closed EARLY! How awesome!?


Originally, the conference cap was at 350, but we will actually have closer to 750 PARTICIPANTS in this year! 


Wow.


Yeah, that's what I said.


Registration is currently CLOSED, however you can email isce@operationsmile.org to be put on a waiting list. There will not be any more registration periods for ISCE due to the incredible response we got during the initial registration. 


The ELC and CC are working in unprecedented waters, way ahead of schedule, and with so much excitement leading up to the conference! 


We can't wait to meet all of you and experience the best week of your lives with you! :)


See you in 175!!!

525,600 minutes

Since I was there,

Learning how to do this..

With these amazing people..

Getting this..

So I could.. 

be the change.

WMTW '11: Best wishes to all of you who have the privilege of attending Winter Mission Training in Virgina this weekend. It truly is, an honor and a privilege to be able to associate with some of the finest students in every aspect in the country. Embrace every moment and know that in a few short days, you will leave with an exciting responsibility in your hands and many, many people who you will want to keep as very close friends in your life. I can truly say that some of my most trusted and beloved friends are among you this weekend! They have impacted my life more than they probably know. I sure do love them!! :) While it has been a year since I attended my mission training, I will soon not forget the memories and the spirit that was in the air as we participated together in a weekend devoted to learning how you will soon hereafter change the world. 

As I look back on this one year that has elapsed so quickly, I can't help but feel so grateful for everything that has happened in my life- both the good and the bad, the fun and the hard. I feel as if I've grown up more in this one year of life than the many before it, combined. It would be impossible to say this validly without attributing it to my mission and the opportunities and experiences I've had through Operation Smile. 

Your work with this cause does not end this weekend, nor after your plane lands back down in the city you are used to calling "home"(significantly dirtier, jetlagged, tired, not caring about half the things you used to and significantly a happier, better person). Actually, this is just the beginning. 

I hope someone talks to you this weekend about how valuable you are to this world- You and I are truly a huge investment that the Magees have decided to make. Live up to it.

I can't wait for you to get your mission assignments. It really is such a happy and special moment! Please know that as ELC, we are ALL here to help you to do your best. Especially listen to Sam Devito because I swear she is the mission queen. (who else do you know that was all packed and ready to go 3 months before her mission??) :) I hope that this blog will be able to serve as a resource for you as well as you prepare for your mission.

Good luck to you, my friends! Please don't be disappointed if by chance you get the special honor of a mystery mission. Don't let negativity enter your experience. Smile all the time! :) Party hard!

:) See you in Beijing!

Lisa

Ps: 11 of the 15 ELC's this  year attended WMTW '10 and will also be interviewing WELCs in China for ELC '12.. Just somethin' to keep in mind.. Be smart:)

Operation Smile Year in Review

152 Medical Missions in 33 countries,


26,611 Free Physical Examinations


and


16,113 lives transformed.

And that's only those who received surgery.

Thousands and thousands of volunteers from over 60 different countries came together this year to make these missions possible. I was fortunate enough to be one of those. I can testify thousands of hearts were transformed. Not physically by any means of an operation- but by a simple smile.

And that's only the mission volunteers.

700+ student clubs all around the world coming together to raise awareness and hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

We had our annual OpSmile International Student Leadership Conference. Over 400 driven students from 16 different countries around the world who commenced at a new school year to further these efforts.

Another excellent Executive Leadership Council began their term to lead a new year off for Student Programs, as well as a newly formed College Council to develop and sustain University Programs


A new student-started initiative called Millions reaching Millions hoping to raise $1,000,000 and 1,000,000 Smile Bag supplies to completely run a student-sponsored medical mission.

And that's only students.

Millions of dollars raised by corporate donors, families, service groups, clubs, fundraisers and generous citizens who hope to heal humanity so that thousands of innocent babies, children, teenagers and even adults could receive a simple surgery for a second chance at life. 


This is just a cumulation of the selfless work of hundreds of Operation Smile employees, hundreds of thousands of volunteers, millions of dollars, and one dream, one purpose, one goal.

And that's only 2010.

A  happy and healthy new year to you.

Here's to another beautiful and life-changing year.

Thank you for  your readership, your love, your support, your generous donations and your choice to Be the Change.

Jordan Mission!

My  heart goes out to OpSmile Jordan this week as they carry out their first international mission since mine in February. I miss you all so much, pray and think of you every day, and wish I was there to help all our friends! Please eat soooo much Kobiz and Homos and K'nafa and maybe even eat at the awful Peking restaurant:) I heard it just rained there this week- that makes me so happy "Rain is a blessing" :) Yes, I still remember!!

Khaled- I expect some major "documentation" !!! :)

Shukran and Good Luck!!

Liza

This week...

I met Dawson at ISLC '08, it was both our first time at the conference. I actually didn't meet Daws until the last day of our conference (actually at the time I thought he was slightly weird and didn't know his name so had him as "Riverton Kid" in my phone) :) Anyways, since then I have seen the "Transformation of Life" that is stated in the Operation Smile mission statement in both of us as we have both journeyed in different adventures yet on the same path. It has been an  absolute blessing to witness such a phenomenon in another humans life.

Many times this week I've been asked if I feel jealousy or if I wish I was there. To be honest, (thanks to another friend's help), I realized that I really wasn't jealous of Daws and I don't wish I was in India this week... [Actually I am definitely thinking a lot more of my own mission as there is the first International Mission in Jordan (!!:)) this upcoming week since mine.. I am feeling pangs of homesickness and longing to be able to see those children and volunteers I fell so deeply in love with last February.. yet so much happiness because I know they are in good hands:).. 

But, I am actually feeling so much gratitude and happiness as I've been stalking his blog and seeing his Facebook posts. It is a different feeling to be able to watch from the outside someone you know and care about receive such an outstanding gift and blessing. It  has been an honor to be able to watch Dawson (and others!) prepare and experience the same life-changing missions we are on. It is so rewarding to know that I have played a part, no matter how small or menial, in this part of life for many that will continue to bless and lead in the future. 

2010-'11 ELC/CC

I feel that this is probably one of the most incredible parts of my involvement in Operation Smile. I've been able to firstly, experience for myself the joy and passion I feel for this cause, then be a first-hand witness in it's effects in helping change people's lives, forever- and in doing so see mine change as well. Then, I've been able to meet so many driven individuals who have similar goals as I do and watch them go through the same things I've been through.. the same trials, successes and that 'moment' where you know that your passion lies in something so strongly that you want to do all you can to further that work and let others feel the same enthusiasm and love you do. It's just a continuous cycle.. and for that I will forever be in debt to Student Programs and the Magees for allowing such a little kid like me to have these experiences.

Did  you know, that this blog has a mission statement? 

B-town to A-town's mission is:

 To inspire, motivate, and drive others to do their best in creating smiles worldwide by becoming a resource to students, the community, and the world. B-town to A-town hopes to raise awareness about the global organization Operation Smile, promote Operation Smile Student Programs, and help further others involvement and passion for the cause by serving as support and a resourceful guide to their success.

That is my goal through my blogs and involvement- to be able to help and serve as a resource to others to help build their skills, knowledge and love  so that they they too, may be able to find in this or anything else, the things in life that mean the most to them. I feel that if I've been able to help even one student, it makes all the countless hours of posting, editing, linking, researching and formatting that I've invested in blogging-- completely and absolutely worth it, because it means that it has helped me in reaching and fulfilling my vision. That, in and of itself brings me the same rewards as if I were there-- in India, in Jordan, in the Philippines.. anywhere!

So, with that being said. I am so thankful for all the students who have been on mission, going on missions, and especially for this batch of upcoming kids attending WMTW in Virgina. Unfortunately, I won't be leading this training, but will still be there in spirit hoping that I can help them reach their potentials and be a service unto them. I am not jealous (to a certain degree;) about these missions, but I am grateful that I get to help others just like those inspirational individuals who have helped me on my journey before me. I am SO grateful to be in leading in the capacity of a member of the Executive Leadership Council and having so many more opportunities to help me reach my goals and ambitions.

Ahh. I just love OpSmile.. What more is there to say? :)

The Superboys are in INDIA!

My amazing friend Dawson Oler is officially in INDIA for his mission! 

Daws and I with the Magees! :)

WOW I am SO excited for him. Daws and I have been friends since my first ISLC in '08. Since then, he himself has started a club at Riverton High, and as a result of that a few other clubs have popped up. I look up to Dawson so much in all he does. He recently was the one who got John Lefler at the Benefit Concert we had!!

Dawson is awesome, and his blog is also awesome! Please follow him and his mission partner, Kyle Sevel from Florida as they embark on another SUPER MISSION to Guwahati! In case you didn't know, the State of Amman is trying to be the first cleft-free state. There are thousands and thousands of people that are affected by them, and so we have much to do. I am so excited for these two outstanding guys to have the most life-changing experience of their lives.

The Trio opening their assignment! :) 

(ps: had to do some crazy facestalking to get this pic.. it would be easier if you would just tag yourselves in pics!! Haha;)

Dawson and Kyle's Blog to INDIA

Good luck boys! Go get 'em!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This is a video that I love-- no matter our views on faith, there is no question that there is much for which to be grateful for! :)

There is SO much to be thankful for this year, especially considering the amazing year journey of so many things that happened in the course of my last 12 months. We are so blessed to live in a world where there is much thanks AND giving. What an opportunity we have to come together to fight injustice. I am so thankful for the chance I've had to be a part of something so much bigger than anything we could imagine. I am so grateful for you, your kind and uplifting comments, your success, your drive and your actions to be the change you wish to see in the world. I am so grateful for your readership and support. Thank you so much for all you have given me, all over the world!

"Regardless of our circumstances, each of us has much for which to be grateful if we will but pause and contemplate our blessings" 

-Thomas S. Monson

Hope that today, you and your families, friends and loved ones have a day full of love and joy. I hope that we can all recognize our blessings and those things in our lives that bring us happiness. Thank you so much, and have a very happy thanksgiving from me to you, wherever you are!

Much Love, Shukran!!

Lisa

ISCE (the former ISLC)

In case you haven't heard, we are officially going to BEIJING, CHINA for ISCE next August!

"Wait..." you're wondering.. "Did she just say isCE??" 

Yes.

A change that has been made this year to our yearly conference is the name! Since we have never been in China, we wanted to better reflect the Chinese culture within out conference and therefore, ISLC will be called ISCE this year! ISCE stands for "International Student Cultural Exchange". As StudPro Staff and ELC, we have lovingly embraced it with a nickname-- "ICE". So get pumped and be sure to tell everyone about this change! 

If you have not done so already, please visit the ISCE WEBSITE for more information and blog posts that will be updated regularly. As more information becomes available, it will be put on this website. If you're remotely interested about receiving information or hesitant about attending, take thisshort survey to gain a better understanding and receive some more information! 

Early registration (Early December - Jan. 31)

Who: All High School and University age students, as well as adult sponsors-- no previous involvement with OpSmile Required! 

When: August 1-7, 2011

Where: Beijing, China-- Beijing Normal University and Marriott

Price:

• All participants except those traveling from Asia: $1,300 (includes airfare, hotel, offsite activities like the Great Wall, Tienanmen Square and the Forbidden City!, food, the conference fee and more!)
• Participants traveling from Asia: $800
• Participants from China: $500 (excludes airfare)

Get PUMPED for an incredible conference. So much has been done already to plan a successful experience for all involved! 

Can't wait to see you there on MY team;)

NOW is the Time.

Visit me HERE to read my past experiences with ISCE!!

Benefit Concert

Utah Operation Smile Student Programs is holding our very first 

BENEFIT CONCERT

featuring 

John Lefler

of

 DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL

and local Utah artist 

ALLRED

What: Benefit concert for Operation Smile

When: Friday, October 22, 2010

7:00 pm

 doors open at 6:30

Where: Davis High School Auditorium, 

Kaysville, Utah

Cost: ONLY $5!

Why: To raise awareness and funds to Change lives, one smile at a time!

Read about it here

WORLD SMILE DAY

is THIS FRIDAY!

October 1st! 

Tell me:

WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE? :)

Suddenly I See*

My absolutely incredible friend Claire posted this on her Facebook tonight- It made me smile so big!!

40-45 Minutes...

A New Chance.

Just look at her eyes.

Just look at their eyes...

and you will see too.

What Makes You Smile?

In 12 days, on October 1st, we will be celebrating the World Smile Day! (No really, it's actually a legit day.. They even have a website!!)

Which brings me to my question, 

What makes YOU smile??

Last year I asked my school what makes them smile, and they responded with a few answers:

My Bio teacher

In honor or Btown's 22nd consecutive win over cross town rival, WX last night!!

22-17 :)

Ireland and South Africa make ME smile! :D

________________________________________

So, tell me- what makes YOU smile??

You can download the "What Makes You Smile?" page off of the WMYS Blog on OSCENTRAL

Print one off (or 2 or 30), ask your friends and family and send me a picture for a chance to be highlighted on my blog  on World Smile Day! 

________________________________________

Deadline is September 29th.

Email all photos to LisaAdachi@gmail.com

Get creative and share your smile!