PRweb News February 04, 2013
In the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings in Connecticut, new charity Civic Duty recognizes the heroism of California teacher, Ryan Heber. Civic Duty was co founded by Julian Omidi and Michael Omidi, MD, to raise awareness of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, especially the day-in-and-day-out dedication and professionalism of today’s teachers.
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) February 04, 2013
In the wake of last month’s massacre in the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, Julian Omidi and Michael Omidi, MD, co-founders of Civic Duty, acknowledge and applaud the great services rendered as well as the sacrifices made every day by America’s teachers.
“Teachers are truly everyday heroes,” says Julian Omidi, co-founder of Civic Duty. “Not only do they work hard to provide young minds with the knowledge and the guidance they need to succeed, sadly, they sometimes must take it upon themselves to shield kids from terrible dangers. We want to thank teachers for their selfless dedication, and we hope that society will show them greater appreciation because they give so much.”
Teacher heroism and bravery during times of crisis is also extraordinary. There were several reports of the courage displayed by teachers and school staff during the chaos of the Sandy Hook shooting. Teacher Vicki Soto placed herself in front of the children in an effort to protect them from the shooter. Teacher Ted Varga, after escaping through an emergency exit, returned to the site to help other teachers escape. Teacher Kaitlin Roig immediately hustled her students into the bathroom to safety and told them she loved them because she believed it might be the last thing they would ever hear. Principal Dawn Hochsprung and school psychologist Mary Sherlach were killed trying to wrestle the gunman to the ground.
In January, California teacher Ryan Heber stood face to face with a 16 year old student armed with a shotgun and persuaded the teen to surrender. Civic Duty was created to bring the individual stories of heroic teachers to the fore. While the horrific events of the Sandy Hook shooting illuminate the dedication and selflessness of teachers and school staff, it is critical to recognize the important work that people like them do on a daily basis for our kids and communities all across our great country.
Lack of public school funding and resources often leaves schools bereft of basic services, including janitorial and administrative staff. Teachers in underserved districts often find themselves cleaning bathrooms and hallways during off hours, providing counseling services, visiting troubled students at home and buying them school supplies.
Civic Duty was co-founded by the Omidi brothers, Julian Omidi and Michael Omidi, M.D, and is dedicated to mankind’s search for higher meaning and goodness. “Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellow men,” according to Mahatma Gandhi. Civic Duty shares the stories of everyday people who are making an extraordinary difference in the world, and who inspire those around them to do the same through creative outreach, community service, and volunteerism. Those interested in pursuing this type of kind-hearted commitment or would like to share the story of an everyday hero in their community, are invited to send us a message using the website’s Contact Us function. More information about Civic Duty can also be found on Pinterest and Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Civic-Duty/231915443605051.
Media Relations
Civic Duty
855-330-5600
