Some organizations hope to serve those who have selflessly served others. One non-profit organization bringing this advocacy to a whole new level is The Gratitude Project by Nami Oneda. Through its programs, the charity looks to express gratitude to first responders, military men and women, veterans, and everyone who has served and protected the nation and our communities.
Nami is the founder and president of the Gratitude Project. Committed to gratitude as a way of life, she believes that we express our gratitude best through action and not just words. The philanthropist is an avid supporter of law enforcement, first responders, military, veterans, and K9 units. This motivation has driven her to create an initiative that would express her gratitude for these individuals’ selflessness.
One of The Gratitude Project’s many initiatives involves shipping K-9 enforcers to police agencies in need. With the political turmoil surrounding police officers, defending good lawmen is not a very popular notion. But Nami Oneda believes that there are those among them that deserve the public’s defense. She speaks for those who have admirably fulfilled their duties, urging others to recall that these officers are people with families. Countless law enforcers put their lives on the line to keep the community safe. And so Nami hopes that through The Gratitude Project, they would receive both honor and protection.
Nami Oneda is a former ballet dancer and fitness instructor. She currently lives with her chocolate Labrador, Kona, in Las Vegas, Nevada. While the charity founder has mostly pursued a career in professional fitness since 2008, she has always been an active participant and volunteer to various causes. Closest to her heart are programs for first responders, law enforcers, and military personnel. She has supported charities like USO, Mission K9 Rescue, Wounded Warrior Project, Canine Companions for Independence, and Injured Police Officers Fund.
One of Nami Oneda’s projects includes the writing and publishing Dog Teams. The book talks about the LVMPD K9 section and is written from a civilian’s perspective and to a civilian audience. The book aims to show people an “under the engine” perspective of how K9 teams work and what dangers and risks they get exposed to. The book has moved many K9 handlers of the Las Vegas Police Department, mostly because they felt they had a voice for the first time.
Dog Teams explores the selection, training, and work of K-9 handlers. It also dives into the relationship that the officers have with their dogs, looking into the deep bond. The book outlines the process entailed in getting a spot in the K-9 unit and all the challenges that come with the process. Dog Teams is also a book that dog lovers would enjoy. Whether someone is a fan of dogs or curious about how K-9 handlers and their dog officers operate, Nami’s book will give a lot of insight into the methods and challenges that these modern-day heroes encounter on the job.
Nami Oneda heartfully recalls when she lived in New York City and would hear stories of police officers and first responders who gave their lives in the line of duty. She also remembers 9/11, when front liners dove into harm’s way for public safety.
One of The Gratitude Project’s most significant initiatives to date is the Hidden Heroes Gala, an event made to honor people’s service in law enforcement. The LVMPD has recognized the program and is now an annually anticipated program by law enforcers all over the city.
Nami Oneda hopes to increase awareness and recognition for The Gratitude Project, shedding light in the efforts to honor and appreciate law enforcement. To learn more about The Gratitude Project and its initiatives, visit their website and Facebook page.
