By Richard Weinstein, President & COO
Ocean Reef Community Foundation
Let me start by noting that this article was written by me. Nothing artificial about it—no additives (except for the occasional aside such as this one), no preservatives (although I do save it every few minutes on the computer), and it’s sugar-free (save for the occasional compliment), cholesterol-free, and contains zero trans fats. Despite the fact that I am writing this now, I have been using artificial intelligence elsewhere for quite some time.
I think the first instance was in 7th or 8th grade when we were supposed to read “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck. Of course, with one day left, I was only on page 2. Luckily, a quick trip to the bookstore and a copy of the “Monarch Notes” gave me an instant understanding of the human plight and the unfair conditions faced by migrant workers. Oddly enough, I am reminded of that because I am currently reading Steinbeck’s “Travels with Charley,” a 1962 travelogue across the US. He interestingly notes the many changes he encounters in America, many of which eerily reflect what we are still seeing today. (I definitely recommend it.)
However, my most favorite form of artificial intelligence is Spell Check. OK, maybe it doesn’t qualify under the definition provided by Dr. Google, but my goodness, do I need it. Of course, you can’t tell from reading this because, for the most part, spell check does catch the vast majority of my errors. I am still waiting for the next version, called “intent check”. Clearly, the dictation on my Apple phone is sorely lacking in that regard.
There is nothing artificial about the work the Ocean Reef Community Foundation does in the surrounding communities. It is your generosity that enables funding for so many charitable organizations in the very communities that support the Associates of the Club, ORCA, and their Families. With the oversight and vision of our Grants Committee, it is our job to orchestrate the Grant Program that helps fund those organizations most aligned with our Mission.
What is our Mission? “To foster a culture of giving that amplifies our collective strength, inspiring generations of Members to make Ocean Reef and our surrounding communities a better place.” This February 2nd and 3rd, our All Charities Fundraising event will once again give us all the opportunity to help achieve this Mission. Your participation in our Auction, whether by bidding on an item, donating one, supporting our Preferred Partners, or even opening a Donor Advised Fund to help us co-fund selected charities, all combine to achieve that Mission. We would love to have you with us.
Computer programs can do an amazing job of imitating human interactions. Perhaps someday, they will advance to experience true human emotions, including empathy. I imagine it would be quite easy for a thinking and feeling computer to create an online transfer of funds to a worthy and meaningful cause like All Charities. Until that time, if you live at or love Ocean Reef, your support for your Community Foundation will always be the intelligent choice.
