April 8 (Day 39) One Day Without Shoes

 April 8, 2010  -  Tom's Shoes 3rd Annual  

"One Day Without Shoes."

One Day Without Shoes is the day we spread awareness about the impact a simple pair of shoes can have on a child’s life. On April 8th, we ask people to go the day, part of the day or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience a life without shoes first-hand, and inspire others at the same time.

It’s Hard Without Shoes
 Through everyday encounters with domestic poverty, we are reminded to appreciate having food and shelter, but most of us all but forget about our feet. Food, shelter, AND shoes facilitate life’s fundamentals. Imagine a life without shoes; constantly aware of the ground in front of you, suffering regular cuts and scrapes, tending to infection after each walk, and enduring not only terrain, but heat and cold.

The problem is large, but the solution is simple. Wearing shoes and practicing basic hygiene can prevent both infection and disease due to unsafe roads and contaminated soil. By imagining a life barefoot, we can all contribute to the awareness of these conditions. On April 8th, communities, campuses, organizations, and individuals are banding together to walk barefoot for One Day Without Shoes.
 Facts:

-In some developing nations, children must walk for miles to school, clean water and to seek medical help.
-Cuts and sores on feet can lead to serious infection.
-Often, children cannot attend school barefoot.
-In Ethiopia, approximately one million people are suffering from Podoconiosis, a debilitating and disfiguring   disease caused by walking barefoot in volcanic soil.
-Podoconiosis is 100% preventable with basic foot hygiene and wearing shoes.

Click here to find an event near you.  There are over 1200 events listed.
Can't go barefoot?  Click here for ways you can help while keeping your shoes on.

This movement started by the vision of one young person...

In 2006 an American traveler, Blake Mycoskie, befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by caring TOMS customers.


Since our beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 400,000 pairs of shoes to children in need, through the purchases of caring customers.


Resources: One Day Without Shoes
                 Tom's Shoes
Related Links:  http://www.toms.com/
                       http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com/

April 7 (Day 38) National Day of Hope

Let me start this posting off a little differently than usual.  If you are reading this and you or someone you know is being abused.  Help is available...

Please call the National Child Abuse Hotline  1-800-4-A-CHILD

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the first Wednesday of April is designated as "A National Day of Hope."
On this day we ask all Americans to keep victims of abuse and neglect in their thoughts and prayers, to seek to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect, and to give victimized children hope for the future. This is also a day when the faith community, nonprofit organizations and volunteers across America should recommit themselves and mobilize their resources to assist abused and neglected children.

The Mission of Childhelp:
Childhelp(R) exists to meet the physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of abused, neglected and at-risk children. We focus our efforts on advocacy, prevention, treatment, and community outreach.

Our Philosophy:
Childhelp credits its success to its founders' visionary beliefs, which are the heart of the organization:
•Childhelp believes that every child has a unique contribution to make to the world. We do everything within our power to help each child heal and develop self-esteem to reach their God-given potential.
•We believe unconditional love is the foundation upon which all healing begins. The entrance of each Childhelp facility features the words "All Who Enter Here Will Find Love."
•These children, who have seen the worst that life has to offer, deserve the best that we can provide while they are in the care of Childhelp.

Not surprisingly, the perspectives of the children served by Childhelp are varied. Some have known nothing but abuse and neglect, believing they were alone and that no one cared. Others lived in happy homes with caring, loving families, only to be hurt by someone outside the home, usually someone they already knew and trusted.
Childhelp programs and services are designed to help children from any situation and let them experience the life they deserve-one filled with love. The principal theme is to provide these children with an environment of love and kindness and with the best possible treatment services so they will see how special they truly are.

Click here to see what action you can take to help stop child abuse.  There are volunteer opportunities, events listing and a donation page.  There are also other opportunities for service available.  Will you help in this effort? 


Here are some shocking and sad statistics:
•A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds.
•Almost five children die everyday as a result of child abuse. More than three out of four are under the age of 4.

•It is estimated that between 60-85% of child fatalities due to maltreatment are not recorded as such on death certificates.

•90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way; 68% are abused by family members.

•Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of education.
•31% percent of women in prison in the United States were abused as children.

•Over 60% of people in drug rehabilitation centers report being abused or neglected as a child.

•About 30% of abused and neglected children will later abuse their own children, continuing the horrible cycle of abuse.

•About 80% of 21 year old that were abused as children met criteria for at least one psychological disorder.

•The estimated annual cost of child abuse and neglect in the United States for 2007 is $104 billion.

•Abused children are 25% more likely to experience teen pregnancy.

•Abused teens are 3 times less likely to practice safe sex, putting them at greater risk for STDs.

Source:  Childhelp

April 6 (Day 37) The Love Boat....

Bringing Hope and Healing

Around the world, billions of people live in fear and desperation - with impure water, inadequate food, and little or no access to health care. More than 1.2 billion people survive on less than $1 per day. Nearly 50% of Africa's population has no access to a hospital or doctor. More than 6 million children die each year from completely preventable causes like malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia. But, behind every statistic is a story, a life - a person waiting for hope and healing.  Mercy Ships is a global charity that has operated hospital ships in developing nations since 1978. Mercy Ships brings hope and healing to the forgotten poor by mobilizing people and resources worldwide, and serving all people without regard for race, gender, or religion.

Not everyone can give of themselves as a volunteer, but your support for our cause can make a difference in the lives of the forgotten poor. Short-term crew can volunteer from two weeks to two years depending on the position and typically fill service roles or very specialized medical or technical positions. The ability to utilize professional volunteers as Crew allows Mercy Ships to maximize our donor support and serve those who need help the most.

How Can I Help?

Volunteer:  We have many opportunities, both long-term and short-term, in areas including health care, IT, administration, teaching, communications, stewards, and in deck and engineering. Check out the volunteer positions that are available.
Donate:  Give now and your donation will have twice the impact. Now through April 30, every dollar you donate will be matched - up to $250,000!
Group Idea:  Assemble Patient Admission Kits.

Today's cause offers many great opportunities to help. Won't you please consider supporting this worthwhile cause?

Source:  Mercy Ships

April 5 (Day 36) The REAL Boys & Girls of Summer!

"Every Child Deserves the Chance to Play Baseball."

 

 
Yesterday was "Opening Day" for another MLB Season. In honor of opening day, I hope you will take a few minutes to watch this video and if this touches your heart, maybe this is a cause you can champion!
 
My son is 19 years old now but I remember with great affection and pride, watching him play little league as a young child.  It brought us all such happiness and pride... he loved it and so did we!  That is probably one reason that today's cause really tugs at my heartstrings! There is something about kids and playing baseball, each one brings so much to the other.  
 
The Miracle League has a variety of volunteer opportunities. By giving only a few hours of your time not only will you make a difference in a special child’s life, but you will also create a positive awareness in yourself.
 
One of the most important parts of The Miracle League is the “buddy” system – pairing each player with an able bodied friend to assist them on and off the field during a two inning game. Guidance is generously offered by coaches, organization leaders and family members. We are looking for people who are willing to donate their time, a little or a lot, to help us out in this capacity. Buddies can be fellow schoolmates, parents, college or high school students, athletes, business leaders, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts or any individual or group who wishes to volunteer their time to give the child the gift of baseball and a smile that touches us all

There are only a few rules that govern our program. Individuals must be 12 years or older. Enthusiasm and compassion is key. We offer affidavits for anyone who needs to meet requirements for volunteer hours. Become a “buddy” and you will be captivated by how much you are needed and cherished by the kids and their families. We do not look upon our kids as handicapped but as friends.

 
Click here for a list of "Miracle Leagues" across the country. Click on the Volunteer Opportunities page to see what opportunities are available in your area.  If you don't see a league listed for your area, click here for contact information.  If you cannot volunteer, consider making a monetary donation to the league serving your area. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Source: The Miracle League
Related Links: www.miracleleague.com
                      www.michiganmiracle.org/

April 4 (Day 35) Inspire Greatness All Around You

"The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning." -Mitch Albom

This quote comes courtesy of a truly inspiring blog... YEAR OF GIVING - written by Reed, a blogger residing in Washington, D.C., to chronicle a year long experiment of giving away $10. everyday.  I promise you will be inspired by each day's story.  I really have to say, I Love this site.  In an earlier post on this blog, I wrote on how I gave $10 gas cards to 2 unemployed people. Being unemployed myself, that was something that was meaningful to me.  That was a great experience, bringing  joy and satisfaction.  Giving doesn't have to be over the top grand..Just from the heart!!   You might not be able to give away $10. everyday, but think about it, there is something you can do.  Discover it and do it! 

For Reed, it's all about inspiring others to action...This is how Reed explains his efforts:

"My goal is not to change the lives of those with whom I come in contact. Let’s face it, $10 dollars is not going to change someone’s life in and of itself. I do believe, however, that the act of giving will hopefully inspire others to pursue the ideals that the French philosopher Auguste Comte envisioned when he coined the term “altruism.” Whether that comes in the form of someone who reads this blog and wants to embark on their own Year of Giving or someone who uses the $10 to help someone else out, the specific results are less important than the overall good that we can achieve together. I hope that you find yourself inspired today to do something special for someone. You would be surprised at how even something as simple as a smile or a thank you can make the difference in someone’s day. And remember, happiness is only real when shared.”

Reed has also included a page he calls Lend a Hand where he has listed the needs of some of the individuals he has assisted.  If you are so inclined to help out, he can provide you with the contact information for those in need of assistance.   Check out this blog, you will be glad you did! 

Source: Year of Giving

April 3 (Day 34) Coupons for a Cause

Today's opportunity highlights a great way to help charitable organizations raise much needed funds while at the same time, saving money for yourself!  Who doesn't love to save a little money?!   (Plus I grocery shop on the weekends, so the timing is perfect)
 
With CommonKindness, you can save money by clipping valuable, free coupons and discovering free community services available to you in your local community. Best of all, every time you clip coupons CommonKindness provides funds to support your favorite charities and causes - at no cost to you!
 
CommonKindness shares 60% of its profits with the organizations you select, allowing you to help create a sustainable funding stream for the charities and causes you care about most while you save money.

How CommonKindness Works
1.Sign in to select your charities
2.Clip coupons to save money
3.Companies pay an advertising fee to CommonKindness
4.CommonKindness shares 60% of its profits with the charities you select - at no cost to you!

CommonKindness is completely free of charge to both non-profits and the public.

Also, if you are a student, each year there is a $1000. Scholarship contest for helping a cause you care about raise funds.  Submit a Kindness Video and you could win $200. for your cause. Check it out here.

P.S.,
Don't forget about our other click-to-give causes.  Help make a difference and click on them every day.

The Breast Cancer Site  - help fund mammograms for needy women.
Free Kibble -  help feed shelter animals.


Source: Common Kindness

April 2 (Day 33) Autism Speaks

What is Autism?
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified), Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders.

How common is Autism?
Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism.

How can I do to help?  Visit their website for many ways you can get involved. 

Click here to find an Autism Walk near you.

April 1 (Day 32) No Foolin' - It Only Takes 10 Minutes to Save Lives.

April is NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTH.

Mike Greiner, his wife Sheri and their children, Levi and Chloe are on a mission... visit every state in the nation while promoting the importance of organ donation.  This family knows the importance of organ donation because 6 years ago, Mike's life was saved by a kidney and pancreas transplant.  When asked in a recent interview with 
Mom Logic what she was hoping to accomplish on this trip, Sheri's response was "We hope to get every American registered as an organ donor!" She also explained " When my husband was on the transplant waiting list in 2003, he was one of 81,000 people on the list. As of January 2010, there were 105,000, and now -- just two months later -- it has increased to 106,495! It's easy to think of that as just a number, but it isn't: It's 106,495 PEOPLE waiting for a lifesaving transplant. Sadly, those numbers are increasing far too rapidly. We're going to do our best to do something about it. If more people registered and told their family we could save lives and reduce the number of people on the list.

Visit their website and sign up to follow them on their incredible journey.  Send them advice on where to visit while they are in your state!  Click here to read Mike's touching story... he tells it with a great sense of humor. You will also find a link for your state .... click on the link and register to give life.  It takes 10 minutes to register and as Mike says, "105,000 plus folks that are waiting for their transplants. They all need a hero, some very quickly.Sign up as a donor - be the hero they need."
















Sources:  Mom Logic
               Bestplacesintheusa.com

March 31 (Day 31) Handmade Love for Abused Women

Are you a crafty person?  Can you knit or crochet?
Would you like to learn how?   This opportunity is for you!

HANDMADE ESPECIALLY FOR YOU

Is a non-profit organization that makes and distributes comfort scarves to shelters for abused women.We tie each scarf with a ribbon and include a note signed by the comfort scarf maker. Often our hand knitted or crocheted scarf is the first personal gift ever received by the recipient.

In 2009, Handmade Especially for You made over 6,500 comfort scarves and delivered them to 22 family crisis centers and shelters for abused women. Most were in Southern California.


By the end of 2009, Handmade Especially For you went national and international, forming chapters in U.S. and Canada, and receiving comfort scarf donations from Germany and Scotland.  In 2010, our goal is to deliver comfort scarves at a pace 50% higher than 2009. Even so, we have barely scratched the surface of the need.

WE NEED KNITTERS AND CROCHETERS -  WE PROVIDE FREE YARN!

Check out the website to see how they are helping shelters and abused women. Click here for contact information for this opportunity.

Source:  Handmade with Love

March 30 (Day 30) Colorectal Cancer Awareness

March is designated as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Facts About Colorectal Cancer:
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It is equally common in men and women. An estimated 146,970 people will be diagnosed in 2009, and an estimated 49,920 people will die from the disease. With recommended screening, this cancer can be prevented (by removing polyps before they become cancerous) or detected early, when it can be more easily and successfully treated.


At Risk

•Men and women age 50 and older
•People who use tobacco, are obese or are sedentary
•People with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps
•People with a personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as long standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
•People with a family history of inherited colorectal cancer

Risk Reduction

•Be physically active and exercise regularly.
•Maintain a healthy weight.
•Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains.
•Consume calcium-rich foods like low-fat or skim milk.
•Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats.
•Don’t smoke.
•Don’t drink alcohol excessively.

Early Detection

If you are at average risk for colorectal cancer, start having regular screening at age 50. If you are at greater risk, you may need to begin regular screening at an earlier age. The best time to get screened is before any symptoms appear.

How can I help? Click here to find out!
This is my favorite way to participate... Undy 500 5k Run...... Find one in your area. Sponsor a runner!  If there is not a run in your area, participate in a virtual Undy 500. 


Sources:  Colon Cancer Alliance
               American Cancer Society

March 29 (Day 29) - Taking Steps to Help Others

March is National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month and since March is just about to come to a close, I wanted to include another charity working to end MS.  We have a beloved family member who is battling with this disease, so we are aware of how devastating this disease can be.  Margaret continues to fight this disease with unbelievable grace and dignity and it is in her honor we hope to educate and inspire others to take part in helping to bring an end to this disease.

MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with a risk in the general population of approximately 1/750. Two hundred people are diagnosed with MS every week and more than 2.5 million people are living with this disease worldwide. Like other autoimmune diseases, MS is more common in women than men. The most common symptoms associated with MS include visual disturbances, balance and walking difficulties, debilitating fatigue, weakness, numbness, and bladder dysfunction.


The effects of MS vary widely from one individual to another. Symptoms for some may come and go, while others may experience a steady worsening of their disease. Each person's specific symptoms vary greatly too. For example, one may have visual problems, numbness, and fatigue, while another may experience impaired mobility, weakness, and depression.

With so many variables, the needs of the MS population are diverse. For this reason, MSAA offers five categories of programs and services aimed at providing individualized assistance to people with MS, their families, and their care partners. MSAA is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the quality of life for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis(MS). Visit the MSAA website to see a listing of programs and services MSAA offers to assist those living with Multiple Scleroris.

While you are there click on the volunteer button and check out the volunteer and fundraising opportunities avaialable.. Here's a fun idea....host a Teddy Bear Picnic!  Become a Resource Detective..... you can do this from your computer at home!  Check out the site for more great opportunities.



 
 
 
Source: Medical News Today
            Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
Links:  http://msassociation.org/

March 28 (Day 28) - All Aboard the Smile Train

One Charity. One Problem. One Goal.

Unlike many charities that do many different things, The Smile Train is focused on solving a single problem: cleft lip and palate.

Clefts are a major problem in developing countries where there are millions of children who are suffering with unrepaired clefts. Most cannot eat or speak properly. Aren’t allowed to attend school or hold a job. And face very difficult lives filled with shame and isolation, pain and heartache.

The good news is every single child with a cleft can be helped with surgery that costs as little as $250 and takes as little as 45 minutes.

This is our mission:

-To provide free cleft surgery for millions of poor children in developing countries.

-To provide free cleft-related training for doctors and medical professionals.

Until there are no more children who need help and we have completely eradicated the problem of clefts.


Check out their website to view videos and see the stories of children who have been helped by Smile Train. 
Click here for ways you can help in their effort.  This is a wonderful charity doing wonderful things... Can you help them? 

“If you see a friend without a smile; give him one of yours.”

Source:  Smile Train

March 27 (Day 27) Give Blood & Give Life!

March is AMERICAN RED CROSS month, and before the month ends I wanted to highlight a great opportunity to save lives at no cost! The only cost to you is a little bit of your time.

WHY GIVE BLOOD?

You don’t need a special reason to give blood. You just need your own reason... 

• 
  
  Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. 
• 
  
  Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood some day. 
• 
  
  Some believe it is the right thing we do.

Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. And you’ll feel good knowing you've helped change a life. 

Benefits of Donating Blood:

• It feels great to donate.
• There are certain health benefits that come from donating blood.
• It is something you can spare - most people have blood to spare...yet, there is still not enough to go around.
• You will help ensure blood is on the shelf when needed - most people don't thing they'll ever need blood, but many do.
• You will be someone's hero - in fact, you may help as many as three people with just one donation.

Click here to find a blood drive near you. There are also opportunities to volunteer with red cross.  Click here to find volunteer opportunities in your area.  I entered my zip code and there were several opportunities in my area.

"Be a blood and organ donor. All it costs is a little love." ~Author Unknown

Source: Red Cross

March 26 (Day 26) Help Stock the Shelves of Food Pantrys

Living in Michigan, where unemployment is the highest in the nation at 14%, times are tough right now for so many people. Many food pantrys are experiencing demands that are overwhelming them. Food pantry needs are rising, up 40% from last year.  Hunger is a problem in America, but you can do something to help.

Meijer Stores are helping to stock the shelves of area food pantrys.  Your donation will help replenish food pantry staples like tomato sauce, pancake mix, peanut butter, applesauce, syrup, green beans, jelly, quick oats, and more. Your nontaxable $10 donation will be converted into a Meijer Gift Card and given to food pantries in communities Meijer serves. In addition, Meijer will donate a total of $100,000 to participating food pantries to help restock their shelves.

If there is a Meijer Store in your area you can purchase the gift card in the store or online.  If you do not live near a Meijer, you can purchase the card online and purchase the gift card by clicking here.  Please consider helping in this area.  It is a very easy and low cost way to make a difference.

March 25 (Day 25) Be A Spirit Jumper

In February 2007 Meaghan Edelstein, a law student at Shepard Broad Law Center in South Florida , was diagnosed with stage 3B cervical cancer. After being misdiagnosed for over two months the tumor was finally discovered by her doctors. She was told she had little chance of survival but Meaghan decided to fight. She was immediately flown to Boston where she received treatment at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. After receiving internal/external radiation, chemotherapy and numerous surgeries Meaghan was on her way to recovery. While in the hospital many people visited Meaghan, she also received many cards and gifts along the way. Meaghan credits these small touches of love with giving her the extra strength to keep fighting for her life.

Looking for a way to reach out to others Meaghan started a blog http://cancerlost.blogspot.com/ where she wrote openly and honestly about her experience. Many began to find her on her blog and were able to receive answers as well as comfort. Realizing she was helping others began a healing process of her own. Wanting to make more of a difference she thought hard about what else she could do. Finally the answer came. Remembering the cards and gifts she received and how they lifted her spirits during a desperate time, Meaghan decided to match those who wished to give with those who needed support. Thus began SPIRIT JUMP.
Spirit Jump is a grassroots non-profit organization with a mission to provide hope and comfort to the many men, women and children battling cancer. Spirit Jump accomplishes this by providing uplifting cards and inspirational gifts during this most difficult time.

Visit the website and you can sign up to be a spirit jumper.. or if you know someone who needs encouragement, you can sign them up as a jumpee! It's easy and once you join, you will have access to the names and addresses of individuals who have signed up asking for someone to send encouragement their way. A very simple way to help someone who is battling a big disease! Also, check out the companion site http://www.cards4cancer.org/ and see how you can be a part of Cards for Cancer Day.

On April 10th 2010 Spirit Jump along with Bloggers Unite and its sponsors are pleased to bring you our First Annual Cards 4 Cancer Day. Battling cancer can be one of the most difficult and loneliest experiences a person can go through. With cancer touching so many lives around the world it’s time to let them know they are not alone. Our mission is to provide hope and comfort to the many men, women and children who are involved in this battle. With your help Spirit Jump hopes to collectively deliver over 100,000 cards.

Is this something you can help with?

Source: Spirit Jump

March 24 (Day 24) It's Butt Kickin' Time

                                                   

Today is KICK BUTTS DAY!   On March 24, thousands of youth in every state and around the world will STAND OUT … SPEAK UP … and SEIZE CONTROL AGAINST BIG TOBACCO.  Kick Butts Day is a day of activism that empowers youth to take action against tobacco use at more than 2,000 events from coast to coast.  Click here to find events in your area.

TOBACCO 101:

•The tobacco industry addicts more than 1,000 youth every day
•Worldwide, tobacco use kills one person every 6.4 seconds
•Big Tobacco spends more than 13.3 billion an year on deceptive advertising and marketing. •Adult male smokers lose an average of 13 years of life.

•Almost 90 percent of adults who have ever been regular smokers began smoking by the time they were 18.
•Tobacco companies spend over $23 million a year on lobbying in the U.S. Congress and contributions to federal candidates and political parties
•People who consume 8-10 dips or chews per day of spit tobacco receive the same amount of nicotine as a smoker who smokes 30-40 cigarettes a day.

Claim:

Smokers have a right to smoke if they want to. It's their choice. Smoke-free laws and tobacco tax increases take away their freedom.

The Facts: There is no right to smoke. No court has ever recognized smoking as a protected right. Plus, decreasing tobacco use is in the interest of public health.  Additionally, many smokers would like to quit smoking but cannot because they are addicted. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "research suggests that nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol" and 70% of current U.S. adult smokers would like to quit smoking.

Also, smoking does not just harm the smoker. According to the CDC, nearly 50,000 Americans die each year from lung cancer and heart disease because of secondhand smoke exposure.

Claim: Cigarette tax increases do not reduce youth smoking (or any smoking).

The Facts: Cigarette tax increases do reduce smoking rates. In fact, every 10 percent increase in the retail price of cigarettes reduces overall cigarette consumption by approximately three to five percent. Among youth, it reduces smoking by six or seven percent.  Actually, the cigarette companies have stated, both publicly and in internal company documents, that raising cigarette prices reduces smoking, especially among kids. The fact is well proven by scientific research and by the actual experiences of states that have raised their tax rates.

If you, or someone you love, is trying to stop smoking and looking for smoking cessation information, check out this website for resources to help you or your loved one.  Need additional reasons to quit smoking?  Check out the health benefits below...

When Smokers Quit—The Health Benefits Over Time

20 minutes after quitting: Your heart rate and blood pressure drops.

(Effect of Smoking on Arterial Stiffness and Pulse Pressure Amplification, Mahmud, A, Feely, J. 2003. Hypertension:41:183.)

12 hours after quitting: The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1988, p. 202)

2 weeks to 3 months after quitting: Your circulation improves and your lung function increases.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, pp.193, 194,196, 285, 323)

1 to 9 months after quitting: Coughing and shortness of breath decrease; cilia (tiny hair-like structures that move mucus out of the lungs) regain normal function in the lungs, increasing the ability to handle mucus, clean the lungs, and reduce the risk of infection.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, pp. 285-287, 304)

1 year after quitting: The excess risk of coronary heart disease is half that of a smoker's.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, p. vi)

5 years after quitting: Your stroke risk is reduced to that of a nonsmoker 5 to 15 years after quitting.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, p. vi)

10 years after quitting: The lung cancer death rate is about half that of a continuing smoker's. The risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, cervix, and pancreas decrease.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, pp. vi, 131, 148, 152, 155, 164,166)

15 years after quitting: The risk of coronary heart disease is that of a non-smoker's.

(US Surgeon General's Report, 1990, p. vi)

Last Medical Review: 10/22/2008

Last Revised: 10/22/2008




Resources: Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids

                  American Cancer Society

Related Links:  http://kickbutts.org

                  www.cancer.org

March 23 (Day 23) The Gift of Water is the Gift of Life

March 22-26 is World Water Week...

Though we use it constantly, we think very little about water and its place in our lives. Here are some water facts to ponder:

• More than half of Africa's people lack access to safe drinking water (UN)
• Of all the renewable water available in Africa each year, only 4% is used -- because most Africans lack the wells, canals, pumps, reservoirs and other irrigation systems. (Africare)
• In developing countries, one person uses an average of ten liters of water per day. In the United States, one person uses an average of 75-80 gallons in the same time period (www.epa.gov)
• Each flush of the toilet uses the same amount of water that one person in the Third World uses all day for washing, cleaning, cooking and drinking. (http://www.whrnet.org/).  
• In the past ten years, diarrhea has killed more children worldwide than all the people lost to armed conflict since World War II. (Water Aid)
• Twelve million people die each year from lack of safe drinking water, including more than 3 million who die from waterborne diseases. (WHO)
• Over 80% of the disease in developing countries is related to poor drinking water and sanitation. (WHO)
• 1.5 billion people in the world are suffering from parasite infections, which can cause malnutrition, anemia and delayed growth, due to the presence of solid human waste in the environment. Many of these infections could be controlled with improved hygiene, clean water and sanitation. (http://www.whrnet.org/)
• The average distance a woman in Africa and Asia walks to collect water is 6 km (3.75 miles)(www.whrnet.org)
• The weight of water that women in Asia and Africa carry on their heads is equivalent to the maximum baggage weight allowed by airlines 20 kg, or 44lbs (www.whrnet.org)
• Women are the primary caretakers for those who fall ill from water-related diseases, reducing their time available for education and productive economic efforts. (www.unfpa.org)
• One-third of women in Egypt walk more than an hour a day for water; in other parts of Africa, the task can consume as much as eight hours. (www.unfpa.org)
• Medical research has documented cases of permanent damage to women's health as a result of carrying water, such as chronic fatigue, spinal and pelvic deformities, and effects on reproductive health including spontaneous abortion. (www.unhabitat.org)
• In some parts of Africa, women expend as much as 85% of their daily energy intake on getting water, increasing incidences of anemia and other health problems. (http://www.unhabitat.org/)

 

Drop in the Bucket is a non-profit organization that was formed in 2006 by a group of ordinary, everyday people. After learning about the deadly water crisis in sub-Saharan Africa, we set out to learn as much as possible about the situation and join in to help find solutions. In the three years since we formed, we have aligned ourselves with the best and brightest engineers, innovators and experts on African culture and economics, in an effort to better understand the unique challenges associated with the developing world’s water crisis.

Currently, we have constructed close to 60 wells and a number of sanitation systems at locations in Tanzania, Mozambique, South Sudan, Chad and Uganda. We hand pick our local African contractors and work directly with them on the projects. DITB is involved in everything from targeting locations and mobilizing communities, to approving budgets, monitoring schedules, and tracking success rates. We are also dedicated to contracting labor and purchasing materials from within the communities we are working. We feel that, along with our efforts to dispense humanitarian aid, it is also our responsibility help stimulate the local economy, whenever possible.  In most cases the water is literally under the feet of the villagers who so desperately need it. They just have no means of accessing it. DITB provides everything from hand-dug shallow wells, drilled borehole wells and rain water harvesting tanks, to an advanced sanitation system that includes the most environmentally sustainable, permanent septic system available in rural sub-Saharan Africa.

Currently no one in the organization takes an annual salary and we operate as an all-volunteer group. A cornerstone of our approach is low overhead and minimal operating costs. We are dedicated to guaranteeing our donors that as much of their hard-earned money goes into the program as possible. Much of the funding for DITB projects comes from regular people (schools, families, individuals). If someone sponsors a water-well or funds a complete water and sanitation system, DITB will place a tile with the inscription of their choice on the project. This gives donors tangible proof of their humanitarian impact.

Visit their website to read their stories and see how you can help out this very worthwhile charity! 

Source: Drop in the Bucket.org

March 22 (Day 22) I Love Me a Good Bake Sale!!

Hunger is a Reality for Children in America

THIS YEAR, NEARLY 1 IN 4 CHILDREN IN AMERICA STRUGGLE WITH HUNGER.

THAT'S ALMONST 17 MILLION KIDS.

Share Our Strength's Great American Bake Sale is a national campaign that mobilizes volunteers to host bake sales in their communities in an effort to help end childhood hunger in America.  Nearly 17 million children struggle with hunger. That’s almost one in four. But there is hope, it starts with a bake sale. Join us today! Your efforts will help to surround kids with the nutritious food they need where they live, learn and play. Once you register you will have access to lots of helpful materials that will help make your bake sale a success!

Great American Bake Sale National Challenge -  April 16th-18th
How many bake sales can our volunteers hold in one weekend? 300, 500 or maybe 1,000! Can we have a bake sale in every state? We’re answering these questions April 16th-18th with the first annual Great American Bake Sale National Challenge! Let’s come together this weekend in April and bake to end childhood hunger in America. Select a day, choose a location and be counted. If you can't participate this weekend, Bake sales can be held anytime that your schedule permits.

This is a fun, easy and very tasty way to help!!  Everyone loves a good bake sale!  Make sure you visit Bakesale 101 for resources to help you hold a successful bake sale. If you can't hold a bake sale, check out the site and see if there is a bake sale in your area that you can support.  I'm getting hungry already! 


Source:  Share Our Strength / Great American Bake Sale

March 21 (Day 21) Connecting Military Parents & Kids

The Dog Tags for Kids Project is dedicated to helping United States Service men and women most in harm's way connect with their children at home. Specially engraved Dog Tags in the appropriate service color are provided FREE to the service members for their children.


The dog tags must come from the parents so all dog tags are sent to Iraq, Kuwait, or Afghanistan at the request of the service members to send back to their children; from their hearts to their children’s hearts. We are a grassroots project depending entirely on volunteers and donations to continue this mission. All donations go through the Kids Charities of the Antelope Valley, a 501(c)3 charity. Our goal is to see that every parent soldier who wants a dog tag for his/her children receives one at no charge to the service member or their families.
 
100% of Your Donation Delivers Smiles

Help send dog tags to troops in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan so they can send them to their kids back home! This is a grassroots effort to show support for the troops and their families.

Your donation will help send a tag in the appropriate service color to an appreciative service member. There is NO charge to the service member or their family for these tags. As of December 1st, 2009, they have sent 500,580 tags to the troops overseas to send home to their children. Check out the website to see how you can help.  Please help make a difference and thank our troops by putting a smile on their kid's faces!


Source: Dog Tag for Kids
Related Link:  www.dogtagforkids.com

March 20 (Day 20) Reach Out and Read

Reach Out and Read (ROR) is an evidence-based nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by giving new books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud. ROR builds on the unique relationship between parents and medical providers to develop critical early reading skills in children, beginning at 6 months of age. The 3.8 million families served annually by ROR read together more often, and their children enter kindergarten better prepared to succeed, with larger vocabularies and stronger language skills.

There are currently Reach Out and Read Programs located in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and U.S. military bases overseas, and we continue to grow! Reach Out and Read Programs are housed at hospitals, health centers, clinics, and private pediatric practices. To find a program near you click here.

There are dozens of ways that you can support Reach Out and Read's mission today and help ensure that every child arrives at kindergarten ready to read, ready to learn, and ready to succeed. The single most important thing that you can do is to read to your child every day. It's the most effective strategy for developing critical early reading skills in children and promoting school readiness. 

There are many ways you can help... You can become a volunteer reader and read to children, you can donate funds, you can advocate...click here to discover the many opportunities available to help. 


"Children are made readers on the laps of their parents."  — Emilie Buchwald

Source:  Reach Out and Read