Of all things, a status update on Facebook reminded me to remind you of some things. My friend Janna, who is doing her part to raise 2 adorable, intelligent, caring girls, said that they spent some time emptying closets to reorganize and allocate items for donation. This got me thinking (thanks, Janna!) It's a new year. What sorts of things do you do to get ready for the coming year? And how can you help out others with those efforts?
Janna started in a great place. Why not sort through your clothes or your toys? Ask your family to donate something to a worthy cause. A game, a toy, a gently used sweater or coat. These things can make a huge difference in someone's life. Did you know that you can ask organizations like Goodwill, the Salvation Army, or even your local church for a receipt on items received? It's a tax deduction and there's a standard rate for each item donated. It can add up, believe me!
Have you tried calling local soup kitchens to volunteer some time? It's cold in my neck of the woods and a hot meal might be just what someone needs to maintain their strength or to keep up a job search.
Also, I just received our copy of The Giving Book. It is FABULOUS. It's filled with ways to get kids thinking about others, how they can help and how they've personally been helped and encouraged. Ellen Sabin writes in a way that kids can understand. She doesn't scare them about big social issues, but makes them aware of the need for help. I'm trying to get my hands on a couple more copies. When I do, I'm going to host a few contests this year, and use these little gems as give-aways. Stay tuned.
Lastly, please take a look at some of the sites I've linked to in today's post. They are well worth the visit!
Ellen Sabin, Author
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Be well and thanks for reading!
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Sara
5 comments:
Great ideas Sara! I know I'm going to have a lot to get rid of when we get back to our storage unit back home.
Aw, yay! Thanks for addressing such an important topic (and for the shout out). :D
Thanks, lovely ladies! Keep feeding me ideas, winter drains my brain! :-)
Nice work. I love your giving spirit!
Great thoughts, Sariii!!!
The Charities are really hurting right now.
Goodwill has a cool online site as well. Shopgoodwill.com It helps.
I have what's called 13 Thursdays-- trash day. The evening before trash day, each member of my family is supposed to bring me at least 13 items. Their wants, not their needs, items they no longer use. No whining allowed. Then I separate into two piles, toss for trash for thursday trash day and donations to go to the Goodwill or Veterans Society. And I get rid of a lot of clutter--simplify!
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