Warm Fuzzies for Everyone!

Hello at all,

Happy Monday! On this wonderful Monday, I seem to be in the spirit of giving. Fresh off a charity function this weekend where PR & marketing professionals came together to assist a variety of non-profits with free consultations, I am reminded how important Philanthropy is in daily life. I had a fabulous time meeting new and interesting people, all the while garnering a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I was giving back in a meaningful way. Do you remember that term, “warm fuzzies”? It’s actually quite appropriate. This blog spot is about ways you can go out and give your warm fuzzies, so you can feel all warm & fuzzy in return!

Here are 5 ways to get involved, give back and genuinely make the world a better place this Holiday season:

1.) Volunteer for the Presidential Election – This is probably the most intense and definitely the most historic race in generations, so go out, spread the word, and encourage people to vote! No matter what your political affiliation, you can help others GET INFORMED about the issues and make the right decision. Here are a few websites where you can sign up to support either presidential campaign:
For OBAMA: http://action.barackobama.com/page/s/volunteer/
For MCCAIN: http://mccainonlinevolunteer.blogspot.com/
For ELECTION DAY: http://www.eac.gov/voter/poll%20workers

2.) Sign up with a Volunteer Network – There are several volunteer organizations whose sole purpose is to match volunteers with charitable opportunities that fit them best. Sign up to be in their network, and they will contact you when an event arises that fits your profile. From rebuilding communities to coordinating charity fundraisers to planting gardens to reading to kids, there database is filled with tons of meaningful opportunities in your area. Here are the 3 biggest networks:
HandsOn Network - http://www.handsonnetwork.org/
Volunteer Match - http://www.volunteermatch.org/
Volunteers of America – http://www.voa.org/

3.) Reach out and touch someone – Make a difference in someone else’s life, whether it’s by visiting a Senior Citizen in a nursing home, mentoring a young child, or adopting a disadvantaged animal as a pet. There are plenty of organizations that match people based on background, personality and interests, including:
Senior Smiles - http://www.seniorsmiles.org/ (LA-based mentorship program)
Big Brothers, Big Sisters - www.bbbs.org/
Adopt a Pet - http://www.petfinder.com/

4.) Give Blood – Although not the most glamorous job, this is the most needed volunteer opportunity in the world. What takes fifteen minutes can and will save a life. You can visit your local Red Cross (http://www.givelife.org/) to find donation centers near you.

5.) Throw your own party for charity – My personal favorite, make it your own! Turn your annual holiday party into a “Toys for tots” drive. Organize a kickball tournament and charge everyone $5 to enter, and let the winning team choose the charity to donate. Gather your friends together for an afternoon of cookie-baking, then ship those cookies to Military troops over in Irag. The possibilities are endless, but the most important rule – make it fun and worthwhile!

Now that concludes this very important announcement from temporary Goodwill Ambassador Hansen. On with the show…

Thanks for listening!

Xoxo,
S