While some people may recognize me from my days on American Idol, others might know me as Angelina Veneziano, the character I played on The Young and the Restless. I’ve been in show business most of my life. But what a lot of people don’t know about me is that I’m very passionate about helping others.

 

I was born in Birmingham, but grew up outside of Atlanta, Georgia. I was raised in the church and have vivid memories of our family feeding the homeless at the rescue mission in Atlanta. My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back and volunteering. I honestly believe serving others is where we see the last bit of true humanity in this go-go world we live in today.

 

In 2009, my career brought me to Nashville. I’ve lived here for the last three years and love it. I’ve made lots of friends. The people here are incredibly giving and generous. I saw that up close and personal during the flood of 2010. People were helping people. It’s that sort of thing that makes Nashville so special.

 

“The Nashville Rescue Mission is doing a great work by helping those in need. I’m proud to support their efforts.”

 

Recently, I made the decision to downsize—I’m traveling so much between Nashville and Los Angeles it was time. As a performer, you can imagine the amount of clothes and shoes a girl accumulates. As I started boxing up my clothes and shoes (at least 40 pairs), I began to think about where I could donate them. I wanted to make sure they would be used by someone in need.

 

I was already familiar with the work the Nashville Rescue Mission was doing to serve the homeless, but soon discovered they do so much more. Not only do they provide food, clothing and shelter to the homeless, they also offer life-recovery programs to those dealing with addiction. They have a campus for men and one for women and children. Once I realized how much the Mission does for the community, I just knew they would put my things to good use.

 

As I drove up, a kind gentleman greeted me at my car and offered to carry my things inside. I had a lot of boxes, so he made lots of trips. It felt good knowing I was giving to an organization that is making a difference, not just in the physical sense of the word, but also in the spiritual sense. The Nashville Rescue Mission is changing lives and I’m glad to give to such a worthy cause.