We all know that BUST cover queen Amy Poehler tends to keep good company like Tina Fey, Rashida Jones and Aubrey Plaza. But you’re probably less familiar with Poehler’s friend Dr. Jane Aronson, an amazing woman with fabulous blue glasses who dedicates her life to helping orphans in Haiti. On the latest episode of Smart Girls at the Party, Poehler interviews Aronson and celebrates her life’s work as CEO and founder of the Worldwide Orphans Foundation, whose goal is to orphans feel less alone and more “connected to their community.”
Poehler, who also serves as WWO’s Ambassador of the Arts, traveled to Haiti with Aronson back in January for a service project. The two worked to supply love, affection, and fun programs to brighten the days of those children severely lacking in it. Aronson, who’s recent book, Carried in Our Hearts: The Gift of Adoption: Inspiring Stories of Families Created Across Continents, talks about how orphans in impoverished nations or otherwise are a neglected demographic, and how she wants to encourage people to start caring for them.
Aronson stresses heavy importance creative expression as a positive outlet, acknowledging that while the Haitian orphans have experienced tragedy, adversity and poverity, they are rich in spirit and culture. “The arts are important to all of us whether we realize it or not,” she says. “Whether you’re being able to share a joke or a funny moment with someone or do a dance or write a poem, or play a sport, all of that is really an expression…of you as a very simple entity.”
She also discusses her need to promote youth activism, saying that it’s amazing to support a cause you’re passionate about, whether it’s orphans or women’s issues. As she says, “Girls and women need a lot of support in the world. We’re last on the list.” Preach.
The video ends with some serious debate on having Yoda’s voice versus Darth Vader’s breathing. Obviously, Aronson decides to decrypt the vocal inflections and gentle characteristics of Yoda.
Watch for the inspiration. Stay for the Smart Girls dance party.
Image via Huffingtonpost.com
