PORTUGUESE ORGANIZATION FOR SOCIAL SERVICES AND OPPORTUNITIES (POSSO - PORTUGUESE COMMUNITY CENTER)

Olá! I'm Chelsea Dinis, and I dive into daring swims to make a difference. This year marks a major milestone as I gear up for my most sentimental challenge yet! On August 2nd, I'll be taking on a thrilling race in the heart of my motherland. This swim, known as the Travessia do Canal, spans about 5 miles from the picturesque Azorean island of Faial that my mom calls home to the shores of Pico in Portugal (or vice versa, depending on the currents).

Behind every stroke lies my true inspiration: my beloved Vavó Elsa Dinis. Earlier this year, at the remarkable age of 94, she bid us farewell, leaving a lasting mark on my heart. Vavó, alongside her devoted sister Alice (and sometimes they could get their other sister Fatima in on the shenanigans), dedicated countless hours to the Portuguese Organization for Social Services and Opportunities (POSSO). As a beacon of hope for low-income immigrants and disadvantaged individuals, POSSO embodies the spirit of compassion and community support that defined my family's spirit.

In her golden years, POSSO became more than an organization—it became Vavó's extended family, offering her a sense of purpose as she assisted her community in driving “elderly” to appointments, and knitting for those less fortunate. They would have events that allowed my grandma to socialize and they delivered food when she was home ridden. Now, as I prepare to embark on this monumental swim, I am driven to pay tribute to her legacy by giving back to the organization that meant the world to her. Your generosity can help turn our shared vision into reality. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you for considering joining me on this journey of compassion and solidarity. Let’s pool together so we can make waves of change!