BAYLIE’S WISH FOUNDATION
Baylie Grogan is my front cover for this issue. She was everyone’s best friend, an incredible sister, daughter, granddaughter and niece. Baylie was a Neuroscience major at the University of Miami, and a member of Zeta Tau Alpha fraternity. She was on the Equestrian team and worked as a lifeguard and medical scribe. She was also 19 at the time that her precious heart stopped beating. Two men who misrepresented themselves as college students took her on a five-mile loop away from her college during a rideshare they provided - after convincing her to cancel her Uber. The same two men were providing her with water that was drugged. Baylie was able to get out of the car but was then in an altered state and walking through the pouring rain. The end result was tragically just this: Baylie was hit by a car and spent six weeks in the ICU before succumbing to her catastrophic injuries. The men responsible were never charged for this, and now her family has to live out the rest of their lives with knowing that reality, but also without the gift of her presence each day. As a mom myself and Managing Editor, I felt strongly that it was my duty to make sure that she was not forgotten, and also to bring awareness to the non-profit created in her honor by her parents.
Shawnee and Scott Baker started Baylie’s Wish Foundation in 2023 with three primary goals. For one, to create more awareness and education through their Keep Me Safe Program. Secondly, advocate for updated safety policies and programs. Finally, to create and change laws. I recently sat down with Shawnee to discuss Baylie, the Foundation and her book, Baylie, A Life Shattered. A Promise Kept. A Secret Revealed.
Here are the words of a mother, speaking about her beautiful, deceased daughter:
Bailey’s voice was sweet and gentle, and it brought a smile to everyone’s face. Her eyes would sparkle, and her smile would dance between those two big dimples in her cheeks. She was soft and kind; her mannerisms made everyone feel at ease. She was courteous and polite, respectful, and considerate. She made others feel good, and people were drawn to Bailey. She was charismatic, friendly, outgoing and bubbly. She was calm, peaceful, and graceful. She was the smartest in her class, but she was always humble. She was stunningly beautiful, but she didn’t know it.
She made friends with everyone and had a way of connecting with those less fortunate. She helped children with disabilities and could sense when others needed her help. She was always the first one to lend a helping hand, sacrifice her time, or give up her activities for someone else. She could make you laugh in a heartbeat, her giggle was infectious, and she could be silly and playful with a childlike manner. She was also brave and strong, but also confident and serious when she needed to be. She could hold a conversation with the most intellectual people. Bailey could be best friends with the janitor, and the CEO at the same time. She never judged anyone.
Bailey loved Acia bowls, avocado toast, and salads. She was healthy and strong, she exercised every single day, and mostly drank water - lots and lots, of water. Bailey loved the sand, and the sea; she loved sunshine, and warm weather. Bailey loved nature, and she adored animals. You could always find her cuddling our cat or playing with the dogs. She would stop for a squirrel in need or help a turtle cross the road. She was a huge advocate for a cleaner earth and was always environmentally conscious. She was aware of her actions, purchased biodegradable products, reused when she could, recycled everything, and never used straws.
Bailey had depth, and diversity; she was cultured and educated. As Scott would describe her, Bailey was a class act. She was an amazing listener, fantastic friend, fair competitor, an honest, and loyal person. Bailey had integrity above all else. She did what was right, regardless of the circumstances. Bailey was incredibly organized, and tidy. Her riding gear was always polished, folded horse blankets, and rolled up leg wraps were spotless. Her tack box was the cleanest I had ever seen, and everything had its place.
Bailey would always notice when something needed to be done. The first to jump up, help out in the kitchen, or clear the dishes. She never stood by and let others cater to her; she would do what she could to make everyone’s job much easier. Bailey was never lazy, and she always offered to help. Bailey had a positive influence on everyone she met. She wouldn’t dare leave a mess for the housekeeper and was always courteous to waitstaff. Bailey loved the concept of paying it forward and practiced it often. She encouraged others to do the same. Bailey had a passion for making the world a better place. Bailey was everything I ever dreamed of in a daughter, everything I ever wanted to be, and all I ever wished for in life. She was my everything, and I was, and still am, so proud to be her mother. To know Bailey was a gift. She was an earth angel, and she would soon return.
In conclusion, I say this to you, dear Baylie: thank YOU for touching the world in such a big way, in such a short time. You will not be forgotten.
I encourage all to watch our discussion here:
HUMAN APPEAL USA BRINGS AN ABUNDANCE OF HELP AND HUMANITY TO THE WORLD
Human Appeal USA is a non-profit organization working across the globe to strengthen humanity’s fight against poverty, social injustice and natural disaster. Through the provision of immediate relief and the establishment of self-sustaining development programs, they aim to invest in real, effective solutions. Continue reading to learn more about this amazing charity.
As I understand it, Human Appeal USA was started in 1991. Can you please explain the driving force behind the birth of this non-profit?
Human Appeal was started in a small apartment in Manchester in 1991 by a group of dedicated individuals who believed deeply in the power of humanity and that every human being deserves dignity, opportunity, and the chance to rebuild their life. That mission, rooted in faith, empathy, and justice, continues to drive everything we do today.
How do you stand out amongst similar charities?
What sets us apart from other charities is that we do not just show up in a crisis – we stay. We build schools where children once had none, so children have a chance at a future. We dig wells so people no longer have to walk miles just to find clean water. We support families not just for today, but with the tools and resources they need to create lasting change. More importantly, transparency and trust are at the heart of everything we do. We maintain rigorous accountability standards and strive to maximize the impact of every dollar donated.
Your workforce consists of approximately 273 staff members and 887 volunteers. When seeking out staff, what sorts of things do you look for in a person or professional?
At Human Appeal USA, we look for individuals who are driven by something deeper than a job title – their ability to lead with empathy, to stay grounded in service and have inner strength when the work is hard – as it often is. Of course, technical skills and experience matters, but more importantly, are individuals who have a mindset that humanitarian aid isn’t just about logistic – it is about restoring hope.
Is this enough of a labor force to successfully fulfill your mission, as your endeavors are enormous in size?
Our staff and ever-growing volunteers are nothing short of remarkable. They work day and night, sometimes in tough conditions, but are driven by their compassion and belief that change is possible. Unfortunately, the reality is, the need far outpaces our current capacity. Although we are reaching millions, there are still millions more who need help. That is why we invite others to stand with us to reach every human in need.
Are there ways that we as readers can assist you in your cause?
Yes, there are so many ways to get involved, but the top three would be donating, volunteering your time, or simply helping spread the word. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, makes a difference. We truly believe that everyone has something to offer. Whether it is your time, your skills, or your generosity - when people come together for a cause they believe in, incredible things can happen.
The efforts of Human Appeal USA extend to 25 countries. As there is a total of 195 countries across the world, what factors are considered when you choose to aid a particular area?
There is a global need for aid, but the choice to give aid to a particular area must be carefully assessed where our presence can make the most meaningful and sustainable impact. Some factors include: urgency of the need – we prioritize areas facing severe humanitarian crises due to conflict, natural disasters or displacement. Populations with little or no access to basic services. Opportunities for sustainability – supporting long-term development to help communities build resilience and break cycles of poverty and finally, donor priorities and alignment – working with our donors and partners to help where needed because this work is a shared mission.
Can you share the top five that you feel are in need as we speak, outside of Gaza, of course.
As of now, our top five priority areas outside of Gaza include: Sudan, Yemen, Syria, Somalia and Pakistan.
Alongside helping those living in poverty and fighting social injustice, you assist individuals who have experienced natural disasters in various areas. Apparently, there are at least 15 deadly natural disasters we face today. Are you able to educate others on preparing themselves for these?
Education is a powerful tool in saving lives. We work closely with vulnerable communities to build that awareness. In many regions, a nature disaster for them is not just devasting - it is life-altering. This is the reason why we prioritize community-led preparedness programs by teaching families how to plan ahead and build emergency kits.
In your opinion, is the government offering enough aid for victims of these tragedies?
When it comes to government aid, the reality is- it’s not always enough. Some places get the support they need. Others are left waiting—sometimes too long. It is often the poorest or most remote communities who get left behind. That is why we do what we do. We step in where help is missing, but more investment from the government should be put into prevention, preparedness and rebuilding.
Some of the services you provide include healthcare, education, orphan sponsorship and generalized relief. Walk me through the process of how one becomes eligible for aid.
When someone applies for aid—whether it is food assistance, medical care, or orphan sponsorship—we first conduct an assessment to understand their situation. This often involves our on-the-ground teams meeting with families, reviewing living conditions, income (if any), health status, and other factors. We prioritize the most vulnerable people: those facing extreme poverty, widows, children without guardians, those displaced by conflict, or those with urgent medical needs.
How often are referral cases sent your way?
As for referrals, yes, we receive them daily via social media, emails, and in-person outreach from all over the world. Whether it is a remote village in Tanzania or families in need on the ground in Gaza, our teams are constantly responding to urgent calls for help. One powerful example comes from a village in Tharparkar, a desert region of Pakistan. After receiving a referral, we dispatched our assessment team to the area. They identified critical needs, and we were able to respond with direct intervention. Whether it is providing access to clean water or addressing the lack of educational resources in the area, these are not just aid projects - but life changing moments for communities.
Additionally, are the orphans you work with from all across the nation or certain cities/countries?
When it comes to our orphan sponsorship program, the children we support are primarily from high-need areas around the world—places like Yemen, Somalia, Palestine, Macedonia, Pakistan, and parts of East and West Africa. These are countries where the combination of conflict and poverty has left countless children without one or both parents. Our goal is to not only meet their basic needs but also give them a chance to thrive. We do not just offer financial help; we try to give them a sense of stability, dignity, and hope. A chance to go to school. A warm meal. Someone checking in on them regularly.
August finds you doing a total of three events in California. Please elaborate further on what is offered at these gatherings, and also, are there tickets still available?
We organize a variety of events throughout the year—some are spiritually enriching, others are community-wide, and some are designed to speak directly to the unique needs of specific groups. No matter the format, our goal is always the same: to inspire, connect, and mobilize people around the power of giving. At the moment, we are touring with several well-respected speakers who are sharing heartfelt reflections on the importance of charity: the blessings it brings, and the deep responsibility we all carry to care for others. These events are more than just talks—they are moments of reflection, unity, and a call to action to do more for those who are suffering. Although space is limited, tickets are still available for purchase.
Further, I know you launched a Comedy Takeover Tour late last year. How did that turn out?
Regarding the Comedy Takeover Tour, it was an incredible success! We launched it with the intention of creating space for laughter, healing, and giving back—all in one night. The tour brought together some fantastic comedians who donated their time and talent to support our work, and the audience response was overwhelming. It reminded us that sometimes, joy can be a powerful vehicle for change. Not only did we raise essential funds, but we also introduced Human Appeal USA to new supporters who might not have connected with us through traditional charity events.
It was reported that you provided six million meals to families in Gaza, along with other forms of aid. It is widely known that the risk of starvation for all increases by the day as war goes on. There are multiple reports that Israel is not allowing sufficient aid into these people, so how complex is it to get the needy these products? Is nutrition still the primary need there, or are you seeing that other essential items are a priority?
The situation in Gaza is heartbreaking. We have been working in Gaza since 1991. It is a place close to our hearts. We work with trusted organizations like the Hashemite Charity Organization under the leadership of the Royal Family of Jordan to deliver life-saving aid. Getting aid into Gaza now has become extremely difficult. Every day that passes, more lives are at risk, still, we continue to do everything in our power. Just yesterday—on July 24th—we were able to deliver 2,000 fresh vegetable parcels to families inside Gaza. The reality is that is not enough. The need is urgent, and the suffering is widespread. We continue to put pressure on the international governments to open access so more charities like Human Appeal and aid agencies can enter and put an end into the humanitarian suffering.
As to the remainder of 2025, what are some goals you hope to achieve?
We approach each year with intention and purpose. Our goals for 2025 were carefully set at the start of the year—not just in terms of financial growth, but in where we want to work and the type of aid. One of our key focuses this year is expanding into more strategic locations, particularly across the African continent. We see immense potential and pressing need there, and we are committed to building deeper, more sustainable programs in the region. We have always believed that poverty and lack of education go hand in hand. That is why a major part of our 2025 vision is to invest in education and vocational training for both children and adults. This allows individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty and build a future filled with opportunity.
We are also working to grow our reach. Last year, we supported 6.5 million people around the world. This year, we aim to increase that number—and not just by providing aid, but by helping communities stand on their own through long-term, sustainable solutions.
To learn more about Human Appeal USA, go to: Human Appeal USA Home | Human Appeal USA
Interview with Barks of Love Animal Rescue
Barks of Love is recognized as a major resource for the welfare of abandoned and abused animals in Orange County and inland Empire, CA. Their goal is to lower euthanasia rates in all animal shelters. Their services are offered in Orange County and the Inland Empire. They rehabilitate and re-train dogs that can qualify for adoption. At least 75% of the organization's time and effort is spent on rescue and rehabilitation. Below is our interview.
You launched Barks of Love in 2008 with the primary goal being to aid abused or abandoned animals through rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Might you please elaborate on the personal reasons behind beginning this labor of love?
Barks of Love was born out of both heartbreak and hope. I had seen too many animals—especially dogs—suffer silently in shelters, or worse, on the streets. I felt a personal responsibility to be their voice. In 2008, I decided to stop waiting for someone else to make the change and became that change. This rescue started in my home with just a handful of animals, and it has since grown into a full-scale operation thanks to our incredible fosters, volunteers, and supporters.
Further, you assist animals other than just dogs - and what might those other creatures consist of?
While our primary focus is dogs, we’ve also opened our arms to the occasional cat, rabbit, and even the rare guinea pig or bird when in urgent need. At the end of the day, our goal is to help animals who have no one else looking out for them—regardless of species.
It is a statistical fact that ten million animals per year die from abuse. As you work with animals regularly, might you be able to share the most common types you see?
Sadly, we see far too many cases of neglect—lack of food, water, or veterinary care—alongside more direct forms of abuse like abandonment, chaining, hoarding, or physical harm. One of the most heartbreaking patterns we see is senior dogs discarded because they’re “too old” or have health issues. It’s unacceptable.
Do you feel we as a society have the ability to prevent these senseless deaths, and if so, how?
As a society, I do believe we can prevent these deaths. Education is key—starting with teaching children empathy and compassion for animals. Stronger animal protection laws, accessible spay/neuter programs, and community involvement in reporting abuse all make a difference. But it takes all of us—rescue organizations, citizens, and policy-makers—working together.
There are around 6.5 million animals that arrive at shelters throughout the year. Any idea on how many you receive on an annual basis?
We typically take in about 100 to 150 dogs a year, depending on our foster availability. We’re a foster-based rescue, which means we don’t house dogs in a facility. They live in real homes, getting the love and training they need to thrive.
I also note that you have an average adoption rate of 90%. What factors do you feel account for such a high success rate?
That 90% success rate comes down to a few things: we invest time in matching the right dog to the right home, we thoroughly vet adopters, and our foster families help us understand the dog’s personality. That makes for smooth, happy placements. Post-adoption support also helps families feel confident and supported, which reduces returns.
Barks of Love offers both adoption and foster options. For those that have never done this process in the past, could you explain the steps required to solidify placement?
For adoption, it starts with an application on our website. From there, we conduct a home check, interview the applicant, and ensure it’s the right fit. For fostering, the process is similar, but we provide all the supplies and cover medical costs. Fosters are truly the heart of our rescue.
We also cannot forget to talk about the Little Barkies Program. Tell the readers the reason for this incentive, and how they can participate.
The Little Barkies Program is one of my favorite things we’ve launched. It’s a way to get kids involved in rescue work early on. Through it, children can participate in age-appropriate volunteer activities like fundraising, donation drives, or even reading to rescue dogs to help socialize them. It plants the seeds of compassion early—and it’s so heartwarming to see.
It does take quite the team to run a non-profit. You recently put out a call for more volunteers and indicate that many operate on a remote basis. If someone reads this today and wants to help out, what sort of roles do you have available and what type of time commitment is involved?
Absolutely—it takes a village! Right now, we’re looking for remote help with social media, application reviewing, fundraising, event planning, and administrative tasks. For in-person roles, we always need transport volunteers, foster coordinators, and help at adoption events. Time commitment varies—some people give an hour a week, others treat it like a part-time job. We’re flexible and incredibly grateful for any amount of time people are willing to give. Every role matters, and every bit helps save lives.
I was so inspired to see that 100 percent of your funds go back into your cause. I see that you have hosted events, and three weeks ago, you released new merchandise. Can you tell me what those are and their current availability to purchase?
We are excited for our new merch line that we launched in June. We currently carry shirts, sweatshirts, stickers, and tote bags for our human supporters. For our doggy supporters we offer doggy shirts and bandanas. We plan to add limited seasonal merchandise throughout the year as well! Our merch is print to order and we currently have about 95% availability, some colors and sizes might be out of stock but you can purchase just about everything.
More details on the organization can be found here: Barks of Love Animal Rescue - Home
Ben Lesser: A Man They Call A Living Miracle
I truly consider myself blessed to be able to spotlight a person that is best defined as a living miracle. Ben Lesser is a 96-year-old author, public speaker and Holocaust survivor. He was able to survive four concentration camps, two death trains and two death marches, and then was eventually liberated at Dachau. Instead of being conquered by hate, he chose to live a life that teaches the message of love. Honored that he is part of my publication, but more importantly, one of the greatest inspirations of my life.
Ben, you have faced unimaginable hardships during the Holocaust. How did those experiences shape your approach to challenges in your business and personal life? Many leaders struggle with imposter syndrome. As a Holocaust survivor who built a successful life in America, how did you cultivate self-belief and confidence?
Well, I did not have much confidence coming to America. I was just a young man who lost his family and friends in the war. I barely spoke English, and all I knew was my sister Lola and husband Michel’s family who traveled to New York before me. I was excited to be with them, but I didn’t know who I was or who I would become. That did not come till much later. What I did know and what I have learned is that when I had to make a difficult choice, I tried to determine what the right thing to do was and then do it. Do everything the right way without short cuts. There is a reason for this choice. I had this feeling when I arrived at Auschwitz and was faced with Dr. Mengele (known as Angel of Death), whom I didn’t know who he was at the time. He determined everyone’s fate by a flick of the finger, right, left, right, left.
My gut knew even at fifteen not to take the easy route. I don’t know how, if you want to call this confidence or bold or luck, I stretched myself out, spoke in a deep voice pretending I was eighteen, told them my age, and that I was healthy and ready to work. My uncle and cousin followed suit, and we were all directed to the left. I guess that set the tone of how I chose to live my life. No easy way out. No shortcuts.
In your book 'Living A Life That Matters,' you emphasize focusing on the positive. How can leaders maintain a positive mindset while still acknowledging and addressing serious issues? You've said you've never worked harder than you have since starting your foundation. What drives you to keep pushing forward at this stage of your life, and how can other leaders find similar motivation?
Think positive. Be positive. Do positive.
I could not be who I am today without my lovely wife of seventy-two years, Jean, and her support. She passed away a few years ago, but we had a strong marriage. I constantly remind myself that I am here for a reason. Having strength and determination can be your superpower. That is mine. I am determined, even at ninety-six, to remind everyone that the Holocaust did happen – Never Forget or Never Again.
You hold many titles: author, public speaker, and CEO – but also Holocaust survivor. Why do you feel some deny that this historical event happened?
When history is not taught, history is repeated. Teachers for seventh grade and beyond have so much to teach that when instructing on World War II, the amount of material becomes overwhelming. At times, they tend to gloss over that period. Hence, since they did not learn about it in schools, many deny it. It wasn’t until recently that United States legislation passed Holocaust and genocide education. Currently, twenty-nine states mandate Holocaust education.
It is also not easy because many survivors are not here anymore to tell their story. Seeing and hearing an eye-witness is believing. It has a greater impact than words in a history book. That is why our Foundation created the first ever Holocaust Curriculum taught by a survivor. Created by teachers for teachers, the Zachor Holocaust Curriculum (zachorlearn.org) is a toolbox for teachers, students and enthusiasts to utilize for FREE. We have also created an Artificial Intelligence of myself where anyone can ask questions, and I will answer long after I am here.
Many state that they have returned back to visit concentration camps and also spend time with fellow survivors. What was this experience like?
One of the hardest things I have ever had to face was returning back to these camps. I went quite a few times; once with my sister Lola and wife Jean. It was very emotional. Never thought I would go back. However, I thought about it and the importance of going with the rest of my family and others through March of the Living to show my loved ones and students that I am a living survivor. I am here as an eye witness to show you that this did happen. I was here.
You spent five years as a kid living through an experience most of us are too horrified to truly try to process. What would you like everyone to understand about that period in your life and about what you personally endured during the Holocaust?
You mention my being a kid, but I never got to be a kid… I never had that privilege. When I was nine years old, my parents told me, “There’s no more playing, there’s no more whining, there’s no more crying…you have to listen and be an adult now.” Overnight, I had to grow up. One day, I was laughing at school, just like my great-grandchildren do, and the next day, there was no school.
It is nearly impossible for people to truly understand what we endured in these camps. I learned very quickly about discipline, obedience, the power of choices, and that you had to be the absolute best you can at whatever you do. One example from my time in the camps: the SS gave me a boulder the size of a car and they forced me to break them down into smaller pieces and throw it into a mining car, run it down a hill to the grinding machine that would grind it into gravel, and then push the car back up. It was truly backbreaking work, but I did it and I did it well. They never had a chance to reprimand or beat me. I never gave them a reason, and to this day, I try to be the best at whatever I do. It does not matter whether it is in business, family, or with ZACHOR… I try to be the best I can.
This wasn’t just about discipline for myself. Even though I was younger, I had to take care of my uncle and my cousin who I entered the camp with and who I tried to keep alive for as long as I could. In fact, although a lengthy story, it’s an important one. My uncle had given everyone in our family, including me, new shoes with diamonds in the heels, should we ever need to use them. We were stripped down with all of our belongings taken from us when we entered Auschwitz. By some miracle, I was able to sneak these shoes in. This is how I was able to care for what was left of my family. I knew that diamonds were hidden in my shoes. I used this to pay for my uncle to work in the kitchen so we could get extra rations so that my uncle (who was weaker at the time) would not have to work in the rock quarry.
This was my experience in the camps, the death march, and the three weeks on the death train that I was forced to suffer through. It was one miracle after another. Imagine being starved and having one piece of bread in your back pocket and rationing it out the size of half an egg every midnight. This lasted for three weeks. We were so starved, but it was discipline. I was able to survive three weeks with only one piece of bread and no water. Not that we knew it then, but this had to have been my will and the will of the others who survived with me to stay alive. We knew we had to share this trauma once we were liberated. My purpose was, and is, to tell everyone that this did happen so we never repeat this barbaric history.
What are the best lessons you learned from your years in the ghettos and concentration camps that any of us can apply today?
As I mentioned before, I quickly realized that you had to be the best that you can be in everything you did. I don’t know any other way. This same principle carried me through life. I did whatever it took to succeed. I didn’t look at the clock at five pm and immediately go home. I always asked my boss what else I could help with before I left. There was always something and I did it.
I didn’t have a formal education, so I had to work three times as hard to catch up. Every night after dinner, I studied, and I had a wonderful wife who supported this. I became successful enough that I could invest some of my income into smart real estate opportunities and then became a real estate broker myself. All of this took a lot of extra work and very little sleep. Again, this takes a lot of willpower.
To listen to Ben’s full story, visit: https://youtu.be/E7ANHwfmrPE and https://youtu.be/GIYHmdoq7l0
To learn more about Ben, go to: Non-Profit Holocaust Survivors Foundation | Zachor Foundation