July 31 (Day 153) Soccer For Social Change

I was reading an article today highlighting the Ann Arbor Street Soccer PORT program.  This weekend is the 2010 Street Soccer USA Cup.  Ann Arbor Street Soccer PORT will be participating in Washington D.C. along with  team.  Street Soccer PORT (SSPORT) has a mission to use soccer as a way to engage and empower the homeless in the community. SSPORT's vision is to use soccer as a tool to provide a healthy social activity forpeople in the homeless community, with the goal of providing a positive and empowering experience.

The team also hosts an annual fundraiser challenge match against the local sheriff's office to promote fairplay, comraderie, and cooperation between the city's homeless population and the police force.   I was really curious to learn more about this program.  I have to tell you, at my house, we love soccer!  I was intrigued to learn that soccer is being used as a vehicle in the fight against homelessness. 

Two worlds – one passion.

This summer 32 national soccer teams competed in South Africa for the FIFA World Cup Trophy. Hundreds of thousands of fans in stadiums and billions of supporters in front of their TVs followed 64 hard-fought games. For one month 736 players were in global center of attention.

Among these players were true soccer icons like Lionel Messi, Christiano Ronaldo or Wayne Rooney. These young men are adored by millions of fans around the globe, they have million dollar contracts and the media are crazy about them – in short they live glamorous lives in the public eye.

At the end of July there will be another important soccer tournament – with a somewhat different background: From July 30 till August 1 two hundred homeless males and females from 20 cities across the US will compete for the Street Soccer USA CUP at Kastles Stadium in Washington DC.

These soccer players live in poverty: They are homeless and almost none come to the program with a regular job. They are playing for different goals: employment, substance abuse recovery, family reunification, a second chance. But these unknown stars have at least one thing in common with the glorified stars of the FIFA World CUP:

An overwhelming passion for soccer!


Street Soccer USA (SSUSA) uses team sports to help adults and youths (ages 15+) overcome homelessness. SSUSA continues to innovate and lead in the development of new solutions to poverty and homelessness through sports.

SSUSA is a national league of sport for social change programs in 20 cities across the country. Teams train and compete in local leagues. Players commit to change their lives by setting three, six, and 12 month personal goals. With the assistance of coaches and volunteers, each player is held accountable to meet – and even exceed – their vision for a better self.

By creating a team structure that is fun, positive, and universal, it provides participants with a family-like support group that helps build relationships of trust and stability. Each player is fundamentally challenged both by team and personal demands, expectations and accountability, helping to build character, confidence, and hope.

Research shows that SSUSA reaches more than 20% of the chronically homeless in a given service area, and realizes a 75% success rate in effecting a positive life change such as addressing a substance abuse problem or mental health issue, securing full-time employment or moving off the street. Our goal is to reach 100%.

The sense of belonging, mentorship, and structure that SSUSA programs provide can be the difference between people languishing on the street and successfully re-integrating into society. Since 2006, SSUSA annually hosts the Street Soccer USA Cup, a major sports for social change event.

People who are homeless of all ages are marginalized and socially excluded. They lack stability in any sense. The system for supporting them is a case management model, but across the country case managers are overloaded. The SSUSA model brings in sports-based mentors that help increase the capacity of case managers by building relationships of trust through the constant supportive community of the team. Our programs, tailored to homeless population, have proven effective at connecting high percentages of participants to jobs, housing, and education. We start, however, by building personal relationships. We train together, strive together, and above all else, we listen to each other. Powerful things happen when human beings put their differences aside and really communicate. This type of communication that sport can foster is a true foundation for social change.

We may not eradicate homelessness overnight through sports alone, but SSUSA will change lives, teach important lessons and build self esteem. 75% of players will move off the street within a year of joining the program. Our goal is to reach 100%.
 
 
 
Get Involved:
 
Donate to Street Soccer USA.
 
Get information on Volunteer opportunities.
 
Find a SSUSA Team in your area.
 
 
 
Source:  Street Soccer USA.

July 30 (Day 152) Helping the Needy Get Nerdy!

I love today's cause...  I love their mission, I love their programs and I especially love their slogan....
Helping the needy get nerdy since the beginning of the third millennium.

Ever thought of yourself as a philanthropist? You can help support recycling, computer education, getting computers into the hands of the needy, Free Software, reuse, and fun by supporting Free Geek. Plus, since Free Geek is a 501(c)3 registered non-profit, your donation is tax deductible

Computers help us in many ways, but two problems remain: obsolete computers create thousands of tons of waste each year, and yet many, many people still lack the resources to own a computer so they may take advantage of all this new technology has to offer.

Free Geek points these two problems at each other to solve them both. We accept unwanted technology, test and rebuild it, and give it to those in need in exchange for some of their time and energy. This way, a volunteer who works 24 hours to earn a computer from us is also helping to solve the global problem of e-waste overflow.

Our volunteers do much more than work 24 hours to earn a free computer. They form the backbone of our organization. They build the computers, tear down the parts to be recycled, teach others, and participate in upper-level decision-making. They make it so we can cheaply and efficiently work to solve the problem of e-waste and the digital divide while creating a welcoming, fun community.

FREE GEEK is a 501(c)(3) not for profit community organization that recycles used technology to provide computers, education, internet access and job skills training to those in need in exchange for community service.

Free Geek has 2 main volunteer programs.

In the Adoption Program, volunteers work 24 hours at our facility. In exchange for their work, Free Geek gives them a rebuilt computer, a class on how to use it, and a year of free tech support.

In the Build Program, volunteers learn about computer hardware and Linux software. If these volunteers build 5 computers for Free Geek, they may take the 6th home with them. Builders produce the computers which are earned by those in the Adoption Program.
 

While volunteers help make it work, many individuals and organizations benefit. Since Free Geek currently puts about 2,500 computers back into reuse every year through our Adoption Program, Hardware Grants Program, and our Thrift Store.



How You Can Get Involved:



See if there is a FREE GEEK affiliated organization in your area.

Donate to Free Geek.



Source:  Free Geek.

July 29 (Day 151) Skip 1

When Shelene Bryan realized that skipping one small luxury every month could save a child’s life, she gave her own life an overhaul....

Shelene Bryan was a successful talent agent turned Hollywood executive but she freely admits, "My lens back then was severely limited." Like many good Americans, she and her husband, Brice, signed up to support two children in Africa for $50 a month. As far as Shelene Bryan knew, they were supporting child # GBB 8348 and child # GBA 8453.

But curiosity got the better of her. Shelene had this burning need to find out if GBB 8348 and GBA 8453 really existed, and if their money was really getting to these two children. So Shelene hopped on a plane and flew to Uganda - unannounced. She found her way to a village named Gaba, near Lake Victoria, and said, "Hi, I'm from America and I'm looking for these two children." She showed the local lady the pictures and the numbers. As the woman stared at the pictures, Shelene started to wonder what on earth she was doing in the middle of Africa alone. But then the gracious woman said, "Sure. Follow me."

Two miles deeper into the jungle, Shelene Bryan arrived at the door of a tiny hut no bigger than the size of her walk-in closet at home. When Shelene pulled back the tattered bed sheet covering the door, a child darted at her with her arms wide open, saying "mzungu" (white person in the local dialect). She knew exactly who Shelene was. Shelene didn't recognize Omega at first because she had grown since her photo was taken. She said simply, 'I'm Shelene' and Omega replied, 'I know'. She hugged her in amazement, realizing this little girl was real and her $25 a month was keeping this beautiful little girl fed, clothed and in school. Shelene Bryan went on to tell Omega that she would get her anything she wanted, and Omega replied with a huge smile, "a bed!"

The next day Shelene took Omega into the city, where she had never been before, and with just $20 bought her a bed, a sheet, a mosquito net, a blanket and new shoes. She says she felt like Oprah. That's the power of American currency in poverty-stricken third world countries.

Shelene Bryan also found child # GBA 8453, Alonis, a beautiful young boy alive and well, and very aware of who she was and the difference her $25 a month was making. "It was like finding my own son", she says.

Shelene Bryan's life was forever changed that day. She describes her transformation like this: "I was reduced to my knees, taken out of my comfort zone - and brought face to face with compassion. I made a promise to Omega and Alonis that I would never forget them or their friends. I would go back to my home in America and advocate for these children."

So Shelene Bryan gave up her Hollywood career and started Skip1.org. The concept is simple. Skip just one manicure, car wash, latte, movie, pack of gum, etc. Something small that you don't really need or wouldn't really miss. Then donate the money. Shelene believes Skip1 is not about one person making a big donation. It's about lots of people making small ones, something they can easily skip, and help change the world instead.

Since 2003, Shelene Bryan has traveled back to Uganda three times. Omega and Alonis' village now has a thriving farm, a health center and a number of bicycles used for transportation in and out of the remote area. Next on the list is a clean-water drinking well, which Shelene hopes to have completed by Summer 2011.

Today Skip1 supports children in need in Peru, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Haiti. And that's only the beginning. Shelene Bryan plans for Skip1 to support efforts for food, water and sustainability to children in need throughout the world. She says there are no borders when it comes to loving a child, and there is no work more important, or gratifying, than caring for them.

Skipping it is easy. The truth is, we'll be ok if we skip one or two or 500 things this year. We have so much! Just think about how much money we spend on THINGS. On stuff we'll never use, or use once and give away, or never use again. This isn't an attempt to make you feel guilty, it's to get you to think about one or two things in your life that you could skip, give instead to Skip1.org and help someone in need. You'll never miss it. But a child could live because of it. Just skip it and help provide food & water to children in need.



Here's just a few things that you can skip:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Dessert
• Snack
• Car wash
• Bottled water
• Pack of gum
• A magazine
• A new shirt
• Pair of shoes
• Golf game
• Massage
• Video game
• A movie
• A latte
• A donut
• Haircut
• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Birthday party

Why Do We Skip?
We skip because we can.
We skip because 1/6th of the Earth's population is undernourished - more than ever before!
We skip because 25,000 people die every day from hunger and related causes.
We skip because every 6 seconds a child dies of hunger and related causes.
We skip something because the world needs our help.


Skip1.org taps into the world's wealth to bring food and water to children and families in need around the world. Public donations go to the acquisition and distribution of food and water projects worldwide.


Donate to Skip1.org. Skip something. Feed a child.





Source: Skip1.org

July 28 (Day 150) Locks of Love

Locks of Love is a not-for-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children 21 and younger with medical hair loss. These custom-fitted hair prosthetics are provided free of charge or on a sliding scale to children whose families meet the Locks of Love Board of Directors guidelines.

The organization, which began operation in 1998, strives to help all financially disadvantaged children who are living with the daily trials of medical hair loss. Thousands of bundles of donated hair arrive as a result of the internet and word of mouth as well as publicity Locks of Love receives in newspapers, magazines and on television programs.

Donors provide the hair, volunteers open and sort the donations, and the manufacturer hand-assembles each piece, which requires approximately four to six months. Children comprise over 80 percent of the donors, making this a charity where children have the opportunity to help other children.

Locks of Love provides its recipients with a custom, vacuum-fitted hairpiece made entirely from donated human hair. The vacuum fit is designed for children who have experienced a total loss of scalp hair and does not require the use of tape or glue. Most of the applicants suffer from an auto-immune condition called alopecia areata, for which there is no known cause or cure. Others have suffered severe burns, or endured radiation treatment to the brain stem, in addition to many other dermatological conditions that result in permanent hair loss.



Get Involved: 


Donate Hair  -  Donated hair is evaluated for its usefulness according to the following guidelines:

The donated hair must be at least 10 inches (preferably 12") in length
It must be bundled in a pony tail or braid
Hair must be free of bleach. Colored hair and permed is acceptable.
The hair must be clean and dry, placed in a plastic bag, and mailed in a padded envelope to:

Locks of Love
234 Southern Blvd.
West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Make a financial contribution to Locks of Love. 

Ways to Volunteer.


Source:  Locks of  Love

July 27 (Day 149) Love 146

Today's post is another one of those posts that are hard to wrap your head around.  I literally wanted to break down and sob after reading the stories.  I hope you will take a few minutes and read the post and watch the video.  Please spend some time on the website learning more about this organization.  The work they are doing is so important! Below is the description of how this cause was started and why it continues.  This was taken directly from their website because their words are so powerful... you will want to make a difference after reading their story. Our hope is that someday charities like this will no longer be needed, but as long as they are... we need to support them.   THANK YOU LOVE 146 !

OUR NAME IS HER STORY:

"The number pinned to her dress was 146..."


In 2002, the co-founders of Love 146 travelled to South East Asia on an exploratory trip to determine how they could serve in the fight against child sex trafficking. In one experience, a couple of our co-founders were taken undercover with investigators to a brothel, where they witnessed children being sold for sex. This was their experience:

This is the story that changed our lives.

"We found ourselves standing shoulder to shoulder with predators in a small room, looking at little girls through a pane of glass. All of the girls wore red dresses with a number pinned to their dress for identification. They sat, blankly watching cartoons on TV. They were vacant, shells of what a child should be. There was no light in their eyes, no life left. Their light had been taken from them. These children...raped each night... seven, ten, fifteen times every night. They were so young. Thirteen, eleven… it was hard to tell. Sorrow covered their faces with nothingness. Except one girl. One girl who wouldn’t watch the cartoons. Her number was 146. She was looking beyond the glass. She was staring out at us, with a piercing gaze. There was still fight left in her eyes. There was still life left in this girl..."
"...All of these emotions begin to wreck you. Break you. It is agony. It is aching. It is grief. It is sorrow. The reaction is intuitive, instinctive. It is visceral. It releases a wailing cry inside of you. It elicits gut-level indignation. It is unbearable. I remember wanting to break through the glass. To take her away from that place. To scoop up as many of them as I could into my arms. To take all of them away. I wanted to break through the glass to tell her to keep fighting. To not give up. To tell her that we were coming for her…"



“Because we went in as part of an ongoing, undercover investigation on this particular brothel, we were unable to immediately respond. Evidence had to be collected in order to bring about a raid, and eventually justice on those running the brothel. It is an immensely difficult problem when an immediate response cannot address an emergency. Some time later, there was a raid on this brothel and children were rescued. But the girl who wore #146 was no longer there. We do not know what happened to her, but we will never forget her. She changed the course of all of our lives."  -Rob Morris, President and Co-founder


We have taken her number so that we remember why this all started. So that we must tell her story. It is a number that was pinned to one girl, but that represents the millions enslaved. We wear her number with honor, with sorrow, and with a growing hope. Her story can be a different one for so many more.
Love is in our name, because it is our motivating drive to end child sex slavery and exploitation. We believe love to be the foundation of real, sustainable change. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love." We hold that to be true. Love Protects. Love Defends. Love Restores. Love Empowers.

We are Love146.


Love146 Overview from LOVE146 on Vimeo.



Get Involved: 

Donate to LOVE 146.

Other ways to get involved with LOVE 146.





Source:  love146.org

July 26 (Day 148) From Basketball Shoe to Basketball Court

Established in the early 1990s, Nike's Reuse-A-Shoe program collects old, worn-out athletic shoes for recycling, transforming them into Nike Grind, a material used in creating athletic and playground surfaces as well as select Nike products.

More than 1.5 million pairs of post-consumer shoes are collected for recycling each year. This is in addition to thousands of tons of manufacturing scrap material that is recycled. Since the program began, we've collected more than 24 million pairs of used athletic shoes. You can also recycle LIVESTRONG wristbands from the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Wonder how many worn-out shoes – or the amount of Nike manufacturing scrap – it takes to make a sports surface?  Check out this list for the part of the shoe that's used, and approximately how many pairs of shoes (or the manufacturing scrap equivalent), generally go into each type of surface containing Nike Grind:

• Outdoor basketball court (midsole foam): 2,500 pairs
• Outdoor tennis court (midsole foam): 2,500 pairs
• Full field or soccer pitch (outsole rubber): 50,000-75,000 pairs
• Mini soccer field (outsole rubber): 10,000-20,000 pairs
• Running track (outsole rubber): 75,000 pairs
• Playground (outsole rubber): 2,500 pairs
• Indoor wood basketball court (upper fabric): 2,500 pairs
• Indoor synthetic basketball court (midsole foam): 2,500 pairs

How You Can Help: 

Get in the Game. Drop Off Your Kicks. Clean out your closet, take a peek under the bed and ask your friends and family – chances are, you'll find a few pairs of kicks lying around that have seen better days. When it's time to say goodbye, bring your athletic shoes to any Nike Reuse-A-Shoe drop-off location – there are more than 200 locations in eight countries around the world, including all U.S. Nike stores.

Not Near a Drop-Off Location?
You can also mail your worn-out sneakers directly to our recycling facility. Please note that Nike cannot pay for individuals' shipping costs. Mail them to:

Nike Grind Processing
3552 Avenue of Commerce
Memphis, TN 38125

Please limit in-store drop-offs to 10 pairs of shoes at a time to prevent overwhelming our collection bins.

If you can, bring your shoes to a drop-off location rather than mailing them. This helps consolidate shipments to our facility, which results in a smaller carbon footprint for the program.

We can only accept shipments at our recycling facility. Please do not mail shoes to retail stores.

Remember, athletic shoes and LIVESTRONG wristbands only. We can’t recycle shoes with metal parts, mud or water, cleats, dress shoes, sandals or flip-flops, or wristbands from other brands.

Want to do more? If you live near a Nike store, you may also be able to host a Reuse-A-Shoe drive with your group or school. Learn more about hosting a drive.

Source: www.nikereuseashoe.com

July 25 (Day 147) Easy Like Sunday Morning...

How about a nice easy way to make a difference...

Sunday's are the day of respite in a busy week. Spending time with loved ones, Worshipping, playing, resting! Who doesn't love a nice afternoon nap on a lazy Sunday afternoon?!

I thought today I would post a simple way to make a difference.... something that doesn't take a lot of time and doesn't require a lot of money!  Seems like everyone from small child to senior citizen has a cell phone these days.  (How did we get along without them?)  Well, let's all use our cell phones for good today...



MOBILE GIVING!  Mobile giving is becoming a very popular way for causes to raise funds. There is no need for donors to write a check, fill out a form or call someone—just send a text message in reply and the giving or participation cycle is complete. The time period from notification to contribution or action can be seconds rather than days, weeks or months with the contribution appearing on the donor’s phone bill.  And it is so EASY to make a difference!!





Choose a cause below to support and send out your text!


American Diabetes Association...       Text:    ADA   to   25383   and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill. (Diabetes Research)


Big Brothers Big Sisters of America...      Text:    BIG    to   40579  and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill.    (mentoring children)
 
 
Children’s Miracle Network...       Text:    MIRACLE  to  85944  and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill.  (Children's Hospitals)


Michigan Humane Society...     Text:    PAWS   to   20222  and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill.     (animal rescue)


The Humane Society of the United States...   Text:  HUMANE  to  20222  and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill. (animal rescue)


Share Our Strength, Inc.  ...     Text:   SHARE   to  20222  and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill.    (US Childhood Hunger)


Soles4Souls...            Text:    SHOES   to   20222   and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill.    (International Aid) 


Big Cat Rescue Corp...      Text:   TIGER   to   20222   and a $5. donation will be added to your mobile phone bill. (Big Cat Rescue)



Won't you help make a difference today?

July 24 (Day 146) Drop A Love Bomb

I really love this idea!  This is a great way to make a difference - and all it costs is a few minutes of your time!  Literally under 5 minutes a week!  There are people out there who are experiencing difficulties everyday.  At times it is difficult to live this life but we can make a difference!  This is all about ENCOURAGING others! 

Mission: Changing the world, in just 5 minutes a week.

 
Drop a Love Bomb is a great way to make a difference and is so easy!   You can subscribe via email to become a member of the Love Bomb group.  Each week you will receive a new mission.  You will be directed to the blog of someone who is struggling and in need of encouragement and support.  Hundreds of us will visit the person’s blog and leave a positive, encouraging comment to help them get through whatever’s going on in their life. The comments range from simple messages of kindness to deep personal stories about going through a similar struggle.



The idea behind this type of mission is to amaze someone with the generosity of the human spirit and the kindness of strangers. They may be going through a really tough situation, but if they get a massive love bomb dropped on them by hundreds or thousands of people from all over the world, they’re going to remember this time in their lives not only for the pain they endured, but also for the love shown to them and the increased hope in humanity they will gain. And who knows? Something like that could change a life.


When each of us spend just five minutes to read a blog post and respond with an authentic, heartfelt comment, we can make a profound impact on people’s lives, and give them a gift they will remember forever.

Love Bomb is a project of ItStartsWith.Us. Once a week we come together to drop hundreds of love bombs (in the form of blog comments) for those who need it most.



A recent Love Bomb Mission was for Quinn, a girl struggling through Anorexia. You can read a portion of her reply below: 

 “i don’t have the words to tell you how grateful i am to each and everyone of you who took the time to write a thoughtful and loving comment to me. i’ve never received such kindness in all my life and i can’t really explain how i make me feel except that there are tears in my eyes and each of you, in some small way, have made me feel braver and loved. thank you. thank you from the depths of my heart.”

So, check it out and join the team.... Let's spread a little love and encouragement to someone who needs it!



Source:  It Starts With Us 
             Drop a love bomb

July 23 (Day 145) Armed Services Blood Program

You’ve got what it takes to save three lives with a single donation. By giving a little of yourself, your donation gives sick or injured troops and their families a second chance at life.

The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) plays a key role in providing quality blood products for Service members and their families in both peace and war. As a joint operation among the military services (Army, Navy, Air Force), the ASBP has many components working together to collect, process, store, distribute, and transfuse blood worldwide.  The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) is the official U.S. military blood program. Providing an opportunity for service members, their families, and civilians to support our military in a definitive, meaningful way, the ASBP is a direct connection between those who give and the sick and injured who need their help.

Blood and blood products are used for patients of all ages for many reasons. From cancer patients or surgical patients, to those with battlefield injuries—military members depend on blood donors every day. By giving blood to the ASBP, you ensure life-saving blood products are available whenever and wherever service members and their families are in need.

Did you know that over 40 units of blood may be needed for a single injured soldier? 

Your donation can save:

• A service member injured in action.
• A child with cancer.
• A family member in need of heart surgery.

It’s easy to save lives! By committing to give blood at least once a season, you help ensure that blood is available when it is needed most.



Where to Give

Find the ASBP donor center near you by visiting the Blood Donor Centers page. In addition to collecting blood at their facilities, many blood donor centers “take the show on the road” and conduct mobile blood drives.
 
Click here to see other ways you can help.
 
 
 
If there is not a blood donor center or mobile blood drive in your area...consider giving blood through your local Red Cross.  The need is always great in the summer and remember... you can donate blood every 56 days! 
 
 
 
Source:  Armed Services Blood Program

July 22 (Day 144) - You Are My Sunshine!

Nestled alongside the shores of beautiful Sebago Lake, Camp Sunshine provides respite, support, joy and hope to children with life-threatening illnesses and their immediate families through various stages of a child’s illness. The year-round program is free of charge to all families, and includes 24-hour onsite medical and psychosocial support. Bereavement groups are also offered for families who have lost a child to an illness.The camp has the distinction of being the only program in the nation whose mission is to address the impact of a life threatening illness on every member of the immediate family—the ill child, the parents, and the siblings. Since its inception, Camp Sunshine has provided a haven for over 30,000 individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.


Families with a child diagnosed with diseases such as cancer, kidney disease, lupus, solid organ transplants, and other life threatening illnesses attend one of the week-long camps. Our focus is on alleviating the strain that a life threatening illness takes not only on the sick child but also on other family members. Families have an opportunity to rebuild their relationships together and meet other families facing similar challenges.



Free quality services are provided at the camp including accommodations and meals, onsite medical services, counseling services, and recreational facilities. While the camp is in session, each family stays in their own family suite. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served each day.


Volunteers, except for those who live nearby, also stay on the property. Camp Sunshine is staffed almost entirely by volunteers, many of whom return year after year. The volunteers reflect the diversity of the families and help with recreational leadership, childcare, food service and whatever else needs to be done.


Another distinctive component of the program is the medical facilities and professional staff that are available to address the taxing physical needs of children with intrusive diseases. A physician is located at the camp for the entire session so that families can be secure in the knowledge that the camp offers 24-hour onsite medical support. In addition, a hospital with full-time emergency room physicians and pediatricians is only 25 minutes from the camp.


Recreational hours allow children to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood while their parents find quiet moments to walk by the lake and reaffirm their support for one another. In addition, games and events are designed to foster family involvement, encouraging families to laugh and play as a unit. This approach builds a new foundation the family can take with them when the camp is over to unite them during the darker times they will face.


Each family is sponsored by an individual, civic group, corporation, or foundation, which enables a family to spend a week at Camp Sunshine free of charge. The sponsorship for one family to participate in the week-long program is $1,500. The Family Sponsorship Program provides a way for donors to sponsor a family or families from their geographic area.


The Camp Sunshine Program is FREE.



Get Involved:

Ways to donate to Camp Sunshine.

Camp Sunshine's Wish List.

Sponsor a family for Camp Sunshine.

Volunteer at Camp Sunshine. Camp Sunshine staff consists almost entirely of volunteers who donate their time. Over 2,000 dedicated volunteers participate in our program each year. Many return again and again. They help with food service, arts and crafts, recreational leadership, one on one assistance, child care and more.

Shop at the Camp Store.




Source:  Camp Sunshine

July 21 (Day 143) Putting used bikes to good use.

When most American's think of bicycling, we think of a recreational activity - a fun way to spend some time outdoors and get some exercise. Maybe some of us think of the Tour de France.  In many parts of the world, a bicycle means much more. It provides much needed transportation and increases the economic viability in those areas. Today's post highlights a charity doing a great work in helping to provide just those things. Take a look....

Every year, affluent Americans buy 22 million new bicycles and discard millions of old ones, abandoning many more unused in basements, sheds, and garages. We rescue bicycles destined for overburdened U.S. landfills and ship them todeveloping countries where they are sorely needed and highly valued. 


 Pedals for Progress has received, processed and donated over 115,000 bicycles, 1,000 used sewing machines and $10.8 million in new spare parts to partner charities in 32 developing world countries.  P4P bikes are put to work not only as basic transportation, but are used as a supplement to school and community programs. The bikes are adapted for useas trash haulers, produce trucks, taxis, and farm machinery. Some of the municipalities even sponsor recreational cycling programs, making bikes available to all who care to participate.

When we can establish a program with an overseas partner, the bicycles take on an even greater significance; to keep the bikes working, maintenance is necessary. Children and adults are trained in bicycle repair and maintenance, then the bicycles are sold within the community, fostering the development of a local economy. If a person would like to have a bicycle but cannot pay for it, that person has to work for the shop (and learn a new skill) in order to cover the cost of the bicycle.

P4P also arranges for the bicycle shops to have a supply of tools, parts, accessories, and lubricants for maintaining the bikes. With Pedals for Progress, a bicycle becomes a valuable commodity for trade, employment, transportation, local government - the list goes on. In the countries where PfP has an established Partner Program, the most successful entrepeneurs are the ones who use bicycles to get to work and deliver the goods and service where they are needed most, allowing them to expand their businesses and increase their personal incomes. Medical personnel in remote areas rely on the bicycle to get them to villages not accessible by roads. Without these "mobile bike medics", people in these villages would not get the vaccines or medical attention most of us often take for granted.

Pedals for Progress isn't just donating used bicycles: It's also helping developing world economies by promoting self-sustaining bicycle repair businesses.



Get Involved:

Make an online donation to P4P.

How to hold a bicycle or sewing machine collection.


 
Source:  Pedals for Progress

July 20 (Day 142) Habitat for Humanity

I would guess that most everyone has heard of today's charity and the great work that they are doing all over the globe!  I was really amazed in reading the history of this organization and discovering their humble beginnnings and rapid expansion.  I guess when you have a great idea and you are doing a great work... word gets around and people want to help!

Shelter from wind, rain and cold is a basic human need


Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian organization. HFH is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide and to making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action. HFH was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent place to live in dignity and safety.

Habitat has an open-door policy: All who desire to be a part of this work are welcome, regardless of religious preference or background. We have a policy of building with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.

Habitat's ministry is based on the conviction that to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, we must love and care for one another. Our love must not be words only— it must be true love, which shows itself in action. Habitat provides an opportunity for people to put their faith and love into action. We bring diverse groups of people together to make affordable housing and better communities a reality for everyone.

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization that works to eliminate poverty housing.   They build homes in partnership with families who demonstrate need and a willingness to work with Habitat for Humanity by helping to build a home of their own. Habitat homeowners gain self-respect as they work alongside volunteers to construct their homes.With safe, decent and affordable housing, families are better able to concentrate on parenting, employment, education and community involvement. Each Habitat build site provides a setting for people from all walks of life to work side by side in partnership with future homeowners. Since 1976, HFH has built over 350,000 houses worldwide for more than 1.75 million people.

Get Involved: 

Donate to Habitat for Humanity, Intl.

Looking for volunteer opportunities in your local area? Want to donate to your local Habitat? Find your local Habitat Affiliate. 

Check out their volunteer programs.  HFH has programs catering to women, youth, international programs and a program tailored to RV'ers!

Shop or donate to a HFH ReStore. ReStores accept donated goods which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. The proceeds help local Habitat affiliates fund the construction of Habitat homes within their communities.

Shop the HFH online store.





Source:  Habitat For Humanity

July 19 (Day 141) Rescuing Dogs - Enhancing Lives

Rescuing homeless dogs and professionally training them to enhance lives is what Dogs for the Deaf is all about. In over 30 years, Dogs for the Deaf has rescued and placed over 3,000 dogs in homes as Hearing Dogs, Miracle Mutts (Special Dogs for Special People), Harmony's Hounds (Dogs with Special Needs), and Career Change Dogs.

In keeping with this tradition, we are proud to announce the start of a pilot Autism Assistance Dog Program. This program will allow us to rescue and train more dogs, specifically more large dogs. Our primary focus is training Hearing Dogs and that will not change. The Autism Assistance Dog Program is a small program that will enhance our organization's ability to help more people and dogs but will not detract from our primary focus of training and placing Hearing Dogs.


DFD rescues dogs from animal shelters throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California. We choose dogs between the ages of eight months and three years old that are people friendly, confident, and motivated by toys, treats, and affection. We rescue, train, and place 30-40 dogs annually.  The dogs are trained with positive reinforcement and lots of love.  All dogs that enter training are first spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and receive any necessary medical treatment so they have the best possible chance to succeed.


Check out the different programs offered by Dogs For The Deaf:

Hearing Dogs are trained to alert to the sounds: fire/smoke alarm, telephone, door knock, doorbell, oven timer, alarm clock, and name call. In some cases a dog may be trained for the baby cry.  In addition to sound training, Hearing Dogs are also extensively obedience trained and socialized.
More than 1½ million of the 23 million deaf or hard of hearing individuals in the United States and Canada could benefit from a Hearing Dog.

Autism Assistance Dogs are trained to enhance the safety of children with autism by acting as an anchor and preventing the child from bolting into dangerous situations. These dogs can also have a calming effect on the child and possibly improve the child's willingness to communicate and bond.

Miracle Mutts (Special Dogs for Special People) - Special furry friends who provide companionship, motivation, and emotional support to people who need a helping paw. These dogs help with depression and loneliness; they provide a reason to get up in the morning and motivation to exercise; and they generally make life more worth living.

Harmony's Hounds (Dogs with Special Needs) - Dogs who have a special physical or emotional need and are looking for someone willing to provide a stable, loving home and any special care they might need with things like on-going medical concerns, old age, anxiety issues, allergies, and seizures. In the right, special environment, these dogs can thrive and provide lots of love.

Career Change Dogs - Wonderful dogs that make loving pets and companions.



Get Involved:

Donate to DFD.

Donate "Wish List" items.

Volunteer opportunities with DFD.  Most opportunities require you live in the area of DFD, but volunteer interviewers is an ideal opportunity for people who'd love to volunteer but do not live close to the DFD facility.



Source:  Dogs For The Deaf

July 18 (Day 140) Buy Groceries... Give Back

I HATE GROCERY SHOPPING! I am sure I am not alone in feeling this way because grocery shopping is just one of those things that you have to do, not that you want to do! There is only one positive to grocery shopping...I can console myself with the knowledge that I am helping a charity that is important to me.

How am I supporting my cause while grocery shopping?  It's easy... I use my loyalty card when I make my purchase and a percentage (usually 1%) of my purchase goes to the charity I have registered. It may not seem like a lot of money but to the charity receiving the donation, it can make a big difference.


I recently met with the volunteer coordinator of a small animal rescue in my area and she told me that they receive about $250. a month through their participation in this program. That may not seem like a lot of money but to the charity receiving the donation, it is greatly appreciated.  In this tough economy, charities are looking for every available revenue stream.


Loyalty programs will differ from company to company, so check out the loyalty program where you shop.  You can get information from the customer service desk or at the company website.  I have included a few links below for companies that offer a loyalty program that gives a portion of sales to charity.  Just click on the link for information.

Krogers 
Ralphs
Randalls / Tom Thumb
Food Lion
Pik N Save  - Sign up at customer service.
and my favorite...
Piggly Wiggly - although there is not a location in my area, I want The Pig Card!



This list is by no means exhaustive. If your favorite grocery store is on this list, please consider linking your loyalty card to a charity you support.  If your favorite store is not on this list, stop by the customer service desk and see if they offer such a program.  This is such an easy way to make a difference... Can you help?!

July 17 (Day 139) The 3 Rs: Rescue, Re-use, Recycle

Today's post highlights an organization that is doing awesome work in Arkansas. This program can serve as an inspiration to all of us.  If you are able to help this program, please do! Maybe someone out there who is reading this will be inspired to replicate this program in their area. 

Established in 1989, Potluck Food Rescue is on a mission is to alleviate hunger by bridging the gap between excess food and the hungry.  Potluck was founded on the uncomplicated yet visionary concept that excess food should be put to good use by rescuing, re-using and recycling it to help feed someone who is hungry rather than have it go to waste.

In 2009, the organization rescued over 4.5 million pounds of a wide variety of food from restaurants, hospitals, caterers, farmers, farmer’s markets, corporate cafeterias, specialty food stores, bakeries, dairies, schools, wholesalers and more.

Food is distributed free of charge to a broad, diverse and rapidly growing network of nonprofit community food programs that include: KIDS’ PANTRY sites serving children at-risk, soup kitchens, day centers for seniors and veterans, homeless shelters, women’s emergency shelters and food pantries.

When there’s good food that’s going unused – rescuing it so it can be put into the hand of those who need it the most makes good sense. Potluck is proof that the smart idea of food rescue can be transformed into a fully-functioning and efficient operation that helps feed Arkansans at-risk.


Hunger in Arkansas

One in Six
One in six of our neighbors live below the poverty line and struggles to make ends meet and provide enough food for their family.
One in Four
One in four children in Arkansas does not get enough to eat in order to sustain their growth and development.  Arkansas’ childhood poverty rate is 26% - compared to the national average of 18%.


There is a Demand
Potluck agencies report a 44% increase in the number of individuals they serve.
The fastest growing populations of individuals seeking some form of emergency food assistance are single mothers with children, working two-parent households and senior citizens.

There is a Supply

More than 100,000 pounds of good, wholesome food is discarded daily in Pulaski County.


Rescuing excess food to feed the hungry is logical, practical – and the right thing to do.


 
 
Get Involved:
 
Donate to Potluck Food Rescue.
 
Become a Food Donor.
 
 
Source:  Potluck Food Rescue
 
 

July 16 (Day 138) Giving the Gift of Music

The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation keeps music alive in our schools and communities by donating musical instruments to under-funded music programs, giving youngsters the many benefits of music education, helping them to be better students and inspiring creativity and expression through playing music.

The Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation (MHOF) was inspired by the acclaimed motion picture Mr. Holland’s Opus, the story of the profound effect a dedicated music teacher had on generations of students. The film's composer, Michael Kamen, founded MHOF in 1996 as his commitment to the future of music education.


MHOF donates both new and refurbished instruments to school and after-school music programs that lack the resources to keep up with equipment loss due to attrition, depreciation and wear over time, and to accommodate students on waiting lists or who have to share instruments. An infusion of instruments enables more students to participate and to experience a quality music education. It is vital that efforts are made to give youngsters every tool available within the small window of time when they can make the most of their education, and experience the benefits inherent in learning to play music.


Every year, an average of 10,000 young people across the country benefit from MHOF Programs. Students who can't afford to rent an instrument and kids on waiting lists are given an opportunity to play quality instruments which improves their experience and inspires them to accomplish more and more. A grant from MHOF elevates the music program and elicits more support and demand for music education for all students. Schools have fewer discipline problems, higher attendance and have more kids graduate when they are involved in the music program. Kids learn a skill and positive behaviors that will last well into their lives.

 
 

Click here to see past recipients in your area.




Get Involved:

Make a monetary donation to MHOF.

Donate an instrument to MHOF.

Other ways to get involved.




Source:  www.mhopus.org

July 15 (Day 137) School Supply Drive

Learning becomes difficult when you don't have the necessary tools.  Many low income families and children living in school districts where poverty is prevalent face this difficulty everyday. Children of poor families are up to six times more likely to drop out than wealthy children.  In 2004, 17 of the nation's 50 largest cities had high school graduation rates lower than 50%, with the lowest rates reported in Detroit (24.9%), Indianapolis (30.5%) and Cleveland (34.1%). Source: Do Something

Here's your chance to make a difference!   This summer, Staples has partnered with DoSomething.org (a website promoting teen philanthropy) to host their third annual Do Something 101 School Supply Drive! This is such an easy way for adults, teens and even younger children to give back!  You can help right now by holding school supply drives in your school and community or how about your workplace! Get creative, spread the word, make signs and then gather the donations. 


Now through September 18th, you can drop off the school supplies at Do Something 101 collection bins at any Staples store across the US. Each Staples store is teamed up with a local non-profit organization that will ensure your supplies will help students in your community.  Your donations will benefit your community... that is awesome! 


So let's get busy and gather up those school supplies and drop them off at our local Staples.  If you like, you can buy your supplies at Staples and leave them in the collection bins... HOW CONVENIENT!  One stop philanthropy!  There are other ways you can help....

Donate $1 at register at any Staples store nationwide from 7/4 – 9/18.

Mobile giving:  Text NOTEBOOK to 20222 to make a $5 donation to Do Something 101.



Source:  dosomething.org

July 14 (Day 136) Celebrating Seniors & Making Dreams Come True

Mother Theresa was once asked what is the loneliest place in the world --
Her answer was "nursing homes in America."

When I read that, I was a little suprised... but as I reflected on it - I get it... I understand.  Nursing homes can sometimes be a depository for our elderly.  Families get busy and lives become hectic.  Sometimes Seniors feel as if they have been forgotten.  Everyone wants to feel loved...everyone wants to feel relevant.  Oh, and God willing, we will all be a twilighter someday! 

The mission of Twilight Wish Foundation is to honor and enrich the lives of deserving seniors through wish granting celebrations that connect generations. Our vision is to make America a nicer place to age.


We believe it's time to say "thank you" by bringing smiles and joy into quiet, humble lives. We celebrate the life of someone special by giving a "thank you" they never expected in the form of a wish come true. Twilight Wish honors every wish recipient with formal wish numbered certificates stating their life accomplishments and wish details.


We have granting more than 1,275 wishes since our founding. Twilight Wish has 13 chapters in 12 states We have granted wishes in 35 different states.  We are celebrating seniors as never before--by fulfilling "quality of life wishes" for hearing aids, visual aids, lift chairs, dentures; "one more time wishes" such as hometown visits and reuniting families; providing "shining moment wishes" like rides in a motorcycle sidecar, blimp, parade float or hot air balloon; and finally very simple "comfort wishes" such as a banana cream pie, radios, lap blankets, clothing and stuffed animals.


Twilight Wish also has an Intergenerational Caring Program that "connects generations" by getting many students and schools, clubs, organizations and companies involved by fund raising and directly granting wishes through our wish management. We encourage volunteerism and philanthropy towards seniors, 10% of whom live below poverty level and cannot afford even the basic necessities. A potential benefit of the Intergenerational Caring Program to this aging society where 3,500 people turn 85 everyday, is that students who have been introduced to residents in nursing homes will be more likely to enter the geriatric and gerontology fields. This becomes very important when it is expected that we will encounter a shortage of elder care providers over the next few decades.

Here are a few of the latest individual wishes that are waiting to be fulfilled:

Bonnie G., 72, Dexter MN
Bonnie has always dreamed of taking her grandchildren to Disney World. Her health is deteriorating and wants one last memorable moment with her family. Please help us send Bonnie and her family to Disney World.

Vera Jean P., 94, Washington, PA
Vera has broken both hips and is recovering from surgery. She needs a lift chair.

Syble J., 71,Trenton,  NC
Syble has volunteered to help others all her life. She was a volunteer for the county rescue squad for 10 years. The retired nurses assistant now needs our help. Syble needs a new stove and hot water heater.

Peggy, 68, Homestead, PA
Peggy has nothing in her apartment other than a broken futon and a couple of pots and pans. She needs almost all household items: a bed, towels, a table, lamps. Peggy volunteers regularly at a local senior and now needs our help. Any donation towards Peggy's wish would be appreciated.

Margaret L., 91, Fairless Hills, PA
Margaret's granddaughter wrote to us asking for help. She said her Gram used to go to bingo,mass and luncheons. Some of her teeth ave broken off and she is too ashamed to go out in public. She needs dentures.

You can make a Difference: 

Donate to Twilight Wish Foundation.

Find out how to start a chapter in your area.

Learn about Volunteer opportunities. 

July 13 (Day 135) Cleaning For A Reason

Today's post hits home for me... having several families members who have battled cancer. Having watched as my mom and sister battled breast cancer, I know just how debilitating this disease can be.  While undergoing treatment, you still have to function as normally as possible.  Many women still have to work, still have to manage their families and continue to run a household .... all while feeling like they have been run over by a freight train.  Today's charity tries to help women alleviate a little bit of the daily worry and focus on getting better.  What an awesome way to make a difference! 

Cleaning for A Reason knows that fighting cancer is difficult enough, but living with it is even tougher - and that's where the Cleaning for A Reason Foundation steps in. This nonprofit offers free professional housecleaning, and maid services to improve the lives of women undergoing treatment for cancer - any type of cancer. The foundation headquarters is located in Lewisville, TX. and has maid service partners located in all 50 states, D.C. and Canada.  


The need is always greater than the resources and Cleaning for a Reason is always in need of additional partners.  Do you operate a Maid Service, or know of a Maid Service who is looking for a way to give back to their community? Please consider becoming a partner with Cleaning for a Reason.  Fill out the online form and they will contact you. You must be insured and/or bonded and do background checks on employees.  Here is what one of the partner maid services had to say about their experience:

We serviced a client’s home today and never get used to the humbling feeling when [she] walks thru with us and praises our services and tells us how awesome we are… I quietly think to myself “how brave you must be and how strong a person to persevere through your fight… we are simply trying to make your day a little better… you are the awesome one.”

Get Involved:

Make a donation to Cleaning for a Reason. 

Sponsor a maid service for someone who needs one.

Shop at the Cleaning for a Reason online store.

If you currently use a professional house cleaning service to clean your home, please call and ask them if they've heard of the Cleaning For A Reason foundation.  Ask them to consider becoming a partner.



Source:  Cleaning for a Reason

July 12 (Day 134) Be A Doll... Shine On Now!

As a parent, one of the things I have always strived to do is to teach my children about giving to others. I want them to grow up to be productive adults who consider giving and helping others as a natural extension of who they are.  That is what I love about the American Girl Shine-On Now campaign.  The American Girl Shine-On Now campaign offers an easy way for parents to involve their daughters in a fun and free way to give back!  This is a great way for parent and child to share a "teachable moment!"

Any of us with young girls in our families know about American Girl dolls.  Well, starting tomorrow, July 13th and running through July 31st, American Girl is offering teens and preteens an opportunity to make a difference by taking part in a charitable giving program to donate a up to a million dollars to four different charities. Kids in Distressed Situations, Save the Children, National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions, and National Wildlife Federation are the four charities who will benefit from this initiative.


First, girls can sign up as “Ambassadors” for the Shine-On Now Program to start preparing. Visit the American Girl Shine-On Now website and enroll with name and an adult’s email address (you can check out their privacy policy). Then download the PDF file with more information.


Starting on July 13th, girls can donate stars, free of charge, through the website and American Girl will donate $1 per star on their behalf. Not only will each girl be able to donate 100 stars each day, but she’ll be automatically entered when she does to win an American Girl doll of her own. American Girl has created a fun way to empower young girls to make a difference by participating in charitable giving!


So if you have any young girls in your household, or know of any who might be interested in participating, please pass this information along! 



Source:  Shine on Now
              American Girl

July 11 (Day 133) Sunday - Sundae

The temperatures around the northeast have been soaring for the past week or so... I thought I would highlight a cool refreshing way to make a difference!  AND BEST OF ALL - it's FREE!!

Help Kelly Ripa and Electrolux build Banana Splits for a Cause.  Indulge your virtual sweet tooth and build a banana split! Each day you do, Electrolux will donate $1 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. Plus, you'll be entered for a chance to win the daily prize, $50 toward sweet summer treats, AND the grand prize - the ultimate kitchen "split" - the new stand-alone refrigerator and freezer from Electrolux.2. (You don't have to register for the prizes)


Well, okay - I admit it - I am taking a little bit of writer's liberty with today's post.  To be more precise, it is a virtually cool and refreshing way to make a difference.     It only takes a minute or less to create a Banana Split - so go ahead and take a minute to help out a worthy cause!  Plus... this Banana Split has no calories!!




A Quick Update:

I received a thank you from Be The Match Foundation to pass along to all of you who had a part in helping them win a $100,000 grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project.  Thanks to all of you who took the time to participate and vote,  Be The Match will be able to assist many families of pediatric bone marrow transplants.  Press release below:

Purchase, N.Y. -- June 25, 2010


After three weeks of intense campaigning and more than 500,000 votes, racing fans have let their voice be heard – Jimmie Johnson’s idea to provide financial relief to pediatric bone marrow transplant patients as part of Be The Match Foundation has taken the checkered flag and will receive a $100,000 grant as part of the Pepsi Refresh Project.

“I’m thrilled that $100,000 will be going to Be The Match Foundation,” said Johnson. “This Pepsi Refresh grant will help kids and their families with the overwhelming costs that come with a bone marrow transplant. I’d like to thank everyone who voted -- the support that all of us have seen has been incredible.”

Source:  kelly-confidential.com