Helping Others to Make A Difference

Save The Music

2011-08-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

To learn more, please visit: www.vh1savethemusic.com

The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring instrumental music education in America's public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child's complete education. To date, the Foundation has provided more than $47 million in new musical instruments to 1,750 public schools in more than 100 cities around the country, impacting the lives of over 1.6 million children.

The VH1 Save The Music Foundation helps develop long-term, sustainable instrumental music programs that provide children with equal access to music education regardless of their financial situation. Through strategic partnerships with school districts, the Foundation provides brand-new musical instruments to public elementary and middle schools, jump-starting dormant music programs across the country. The school districts commit to funding certified music teachers’ salaries, providing maintenance and supplies, and scheduling instrumental music classes during the school day. The Foundation maintains a partnership with the district until instrumental music is in place in every school. The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is dedicated to restoring instrumental music programs to ensure that all children have access to a complete education. In the communities with which we grant, we work at the district level, from the top down. If a need for instrumental music education exists, we look to the superintendent and school board for a commitment to restore music in every school within a district. With a common goal of fully rebuilding, community partnerships are created and instrumental music education is brought back to life.

The VH1 Save the Music Foundation has provided access to instrumental music education to children in more than 1750 public schools across the United States, with this number growing steadily each year. The Foundation is actively working in dozens of communities around strategic rebuilds to fully restore instrumental music education.

Help girls be cinderella for a night

2011-07-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

To learn more, visit: www.donatemydress.org

DONATEMYDRESS.ORG ENCOURAGES GIRLS TO DONATE THEIR PROM AND SPECIAL OCCASION DRESSES TO OTHERS WHO NEED THEM.

You can donate a dress from your closet or you can hold a dress drive in your community. Here are some stories of how www.donatemydress.org has helped young women have a cinderella night.

The year of my high school prom, I was homeless and living in a car or sleeping outside on the street. I had nothing other than my (very few) school supplies and the clothes on my back, but I knew if I kept going to work and school, I would be OK. I just wanted a real prom and when I picked up the flier for the Princess Project at school, it made all the difference. Because of them I was able to have a real prom with a dress, accessories, and makeup! There's no way I would have been able to do that before and I can' t thank them enough for making my year a little more enjoyable.

Rachel

I wanted to personally thank you on behalf of myself and my mother for the wonderful experience we had picking out a dress for me. My senior year has been extremely expensive and with so much to pay for, the help with the dress, jewelry, purse, and makeup is truly appreciated. I was like a kid in a candy store picking out the perfect dress for a well-deserved night of dress up and fun. Your organization is a gift to all deserving young women and men who are working so hard to finish school admist all the challenges we face daily. I will be in touch to find a way to volunteer next year and make someone else's day just as special.

"Very Lucky"

Even though I was working part-time while attending high school, I still did not have the money to attend my senior prom. I lived in a single-parent home and although I was well provided for, extras, like a prom dress, were simply not feasible. My co-worker found out about the Fairy Godmother Project and nominated me. I was nervous when she told me, but as the day approached, my excitement grew. At the event, all the volunteers were kind and so helpful. Everyone made me feel as if I was the star. I found a beautiful green gown that fit me perfectly and my prom was everything that I had ever hoped it would be.

Throughout college I reflected on the kindness that those people showed me and just waited for a period in my life when I could return the favor. Now that I have finished college and am a successful businesswoman, I have seized the opportunity to return the love and acceptance that this organization provided me. Everyone may not have my same story, but I am doing my part to assure that every girl feels that same love and acceptance at such a crucial period in life.

Heather

I am a senior in high school and homeless. I live with my mom in our station wagon. I'm lucky that I get two free meals at school every day. Some days my mom doesn't get to eat. It's been like this ever since my dad left.

I already knew there was no way I was going to any dances this year. Then, when I had my visit with my school counselor, she told me about you. And did I find the perfect dress! It was a lot of fun to come in and have a person dedicated to helping me. I must have tried on 30 dresses and she didn't care that I was taking a long time, she was so friendly and fun - and she knew all about fashion and what dresses look good on my body type, and what colors look good on me. I felt like Cinderella when she helped me find shoes to match!

She helped me with jewelry and makeup, and even gave me the undergarments I needed for my dress. And a gift certificate for dinner at the Keg!

I'm coming back for prom - and I already know which dress I want! Thank you for making my dream come true.

Kelsey

Locks of Love helps disadvantaged children suffering from medical hair loss

2011-07-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

For more information, please visit: www.locksoflove.org

Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses we provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to return a sense of self, confidence and normalcy to children suffering from hair loss by utilizing donated ponytails to provide the highest quality hair prosthetics to financially disadvantaged children. The children receive hair prostheses free of charge or on a sliding scale, based on financial need.

How Can YOU Help?

Make a Hair Donation or Financial Contribution

Plan an Event to Benefit Locks of Love

Register as a Participating Salon

Help in our National Headquarters

Events and Fund Raisers help to raise awareness and donations for Locks of Love.

Registered Salons provide continuing support as part of our very large network.

Referrals for children who might benefit from our services are always needed.

Locks of Love Bears are available for purchase at www.locksoflove.org.

Jordann Jewelry will donate 25% from the sale of each Locks of Love Magnolia necklace. www.locksoflovenecklace.org

Albertsons Supermarkets donates a portion of their profits to Locks of Love when shoppers swipe a Locks of Love key tag when at their stores. Please request your tag by e-mail or call our office.

Goodsearch.com donates a penny every time a supporter uses the site to search the internet.

Banner Links are available to post on your web site to show your support for Locks of Love.

Your Birthday Gift

2011-07-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

More and more often I am seeing friends and family who are thinking of others on their own personal birthdays. In the years past, people used to give an adoption of a panda or a star in the sky as a gift to the birthday girl or boy. Now a days, people are asking that in lieu gifts, for the guests to donate to the guest of honors favorite charity, or to donate blood, or hold a fundraising event. This is such a great idea to get everyone involved from family to friends and young to old. Of course we all want to receive something as well. By donating you will receive a sense of giving, selflessness, happiness, honor, and more. If you are having a party, request that each guest bring a donation, a gift for a child to give at an orphnage, a book for a school classroom, or even tennis balls to donate to a retirement home (they put them on walkers so they move easier).

Think about what you want for your next birthday and how you can help others at the same time.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

2011-07-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

For more information on Alzheimer's Disease, please visit www.alz.org

* Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

* Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases.

With local chapters, support groups, a many more ways to help, everyone can find something.

Surfers For Autism

2011-06-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

For more information, please visit www.surfersforautism.org.

Mission Statement

The Surfers For Autism mission is to unlock the potential of people with developmental disabilities, support advocacy for autism issues and scientific research. Our focus is to eliminate stigma through public awareness and education and to unite communities through volunteerism.

Our History

It was December of 2007 when a simple idea was presented to a small group of South Florida surfers by a member whose life and family have been touched by autism. The concept of introducing children on the autism spectrum to surfing took hold and the group began planning for the inaugural Deerfield Beach event. California-based Surfers Healing, an organization taking children with ASD surfing, was having great success and Florida would soon follow suit.

Fundraising efforts help us fulfill our mission of bringing these life-changing events to as many communities as possible and to help fund autism research, awareness and advocacy. Fundraising would be conducted by soliciting local businesses to donate product and services for a raffle and through the sale of event specific T-shirts.

On April 5, 2008, the inaugural Surfers For Autism event was held on the north side of the Deerfield Beach Pier where 40 surfers with autism hit the water and over $10,000 was raised to benefit autism associated charities. The organization has since hosted events in several locations on Florida's East Coast, and single events have registered as many as 200 surfers and raised close to $20,000.

At a SFA event, our surfers are provided a safe environment where two to four highly skilled and trained surf instructors carefully guide them into waves. Our surfers and their families are treated like rock stars and enjoy a day filled with a range of activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, live music, face-painting, games, bounce houses, fire engine tours and much more. A catered lunch is also provided, all at no cost. This is a very special day where children with ASD interact with typical peers and wow families with their capabilities. These events are examples of inclusion at the highest level.

EVENT

At a Surfers For Autism event, our surfers are provided a safe environment where two to four highly skilled and trained surf instructors carefully guide them into waves. Our surfers and their families are treated like rock stars and enjoy a day filled with a range of activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, live music, face-painting, games, fire engine tours and much more. A catered lunch is also provided, all at no cost.

This is a very special day where children with ASD and related disabilities interact with typical peers and wow families with their capabilities. These events are examples of inclusion at the highest level.

Be Someone Else’s Hero Today and Volunteer Online

2011-06-12T16:27:00.000-07:00

To learn more, visit www.sparked.com

Be Someone Else’s Hero Today and Volunteer Online Via Sparked
RACHEL ROSSITTO | 2011-06-06 03:00:43

We know you have a lot going on … and that’s why you have not gotten around to volunteering at the local homeless shelter, or even cleaning out your closet to drop off the clothes you were planning to donate, even though it was on your list of New Year’s resolutions.

Despite spending over 700 billion minutes a month on Facebook and watching more than 3 billion YouTube videos a day, if it can’t be done while procrastinating in front of a computer, we all seem to fall back on the excuse that there are just too few hours in a day.

What if you could take a few minutes waiting at the doctors office, 10 minutes after work or a half hour before bed and volunteer online or through your phone? Today we’re featuring a website that can help you volunteer without leaving your computer.

Sparked is the world’s first micro-volunteering network that makes it convenient for busy professionals to use their skills to help nonprofits. The website matches individuals based on their interests with organizations in need. Nonprofits will post “challenges” to the network like, “Can you help us design a new logo for our organization?” and micro-volunteers can respond.

Check it out!

Recycle Jeans

2011-06-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

For more information, please go to: www.thighhighjeans.com

MEMPHIS ORIGINAL REMADE THIGH HIGH JEANS
We remake jeans that move beyond function and become catalysts for positive social change.

BE A FASHION PHILANTHROPIST
5o% of profit from each pair is donated to a selected local, national, or global non-profit organization of your choice.

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE
All our packaging is recyclable. Plant your hand-printed Thigh High tag and watch it sprout wild flowers.

Thigh High Jeans helps organizations Locally, Nationally, and Globally! Check it out!!

Thanks!

Break The Cycle

2011-05-27T09:40:00.001-07:00

For more information, please visit: www.breakthecycle.org

OUR MISSION:
Break the Cycle engages, educates and empowers young people to build lives and communities free from domestic and dating violence.

Teen dating violence is an urgent, silent epidemic. One in three teens will experience abuse in a dating relationship and more than two-thirds of them will never report it to anyone.

Break the Cycle believes everyone has the right to safe and healthy relationships. We are the leading, national nonprofit organization addressing teen dating violence. We work every day towards our mission to engage, educate and empower youth to build lives and communities free from domestic violence.

Our Values
Break the Cycle commits to creating positive change. We believe knowledge is the key to empowerment. As employees, as an organization and as a leader in the community, we work to shape a world in which everyone is safe from relationship violence. We believe such a world is possible and that it is our duty to nurture its growth.

Break the Cycle trusts young people as experts in their own experience and needs. We value them as decision makers and believe they have the power to build upon their inherent capacity to change the world.

Break the Cycle values diversity in its many forms. We are committed to providing services that meet the unique needs of all youth, regardless of gender, class, sexual preference or race. We serve many distinct subpopulations, including homeless, rural, incarcerated, disabled and immigrant youth.

Break the Cycle evolves to meet the communities’ needs, working together to create lasting solutions to dating violence. We are dedicated to providing competent, respectful and personalized services by collaborating with partner organizations, being fiscally sound and building grassroots, community support.

Break the Cycle values innovation. We seek and implement pioneering ideas to better serve young people. We believe this creative vision sets our programs apart in their ability to create lasting and effective change.

Children's Tumor Foundation

2011-05-16T20:59:00.000-07:00

To learn more, please visit: www.ctf.org

Mission Statement
The Children's Tumor Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) medical foundation, dedicated to improving the health and well being of individuals and families affected by the neurofibromatoses (NF).

The mission of The Children's Tumor Foundation is to:

Encourage and support research and the development of treatments and cures for neurofibromatosis types 1 and 2, schwannomatosis and related disorders (hereafter collectively referred to as "NF");

Support persons with NF, their families and caregivers by providing thorough, accurate, current and readily accessible information;

Assist in the development of clinical centers, best practices and other patient support mechanisms (but not including direct medical care) to create better access to quality healthcare for affected individuals; and,

Expand public awareness of NF to promote earlier and accurate diagnoses by the medical community, increase the non-affected population's understanding of the challenges facing persons with NF, and encourage financial and other forms of support from public and private sources.

Help Prevent Child Abuse

2011-05-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

For more information, please visit: www.in-n-out.com/foundation

Since 1984, In-N-Out Burger has been helping abused and neglected children. It is our way of giving something back to the communities where we live and do business. More importantly, it is a way of giving victims of abuse something they might not have...hope!

The In-N-Out Burger Foundation (the “Foundation”) was established in March 1995 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The Foundation’s purpose is to assist children who have been victims of child abuse, and to prevent others from suffering a similar fate. The Foundation supports organizations that provide residential treatment, emergency shelter, foster care, and early intervention for children in need.

The Foundation is supported primarily through donor contributions and internal fundraising activities sponsored by In-N-Out Burger. In addition, In-N-Out Burger pays all costs associated with the Foundation, so that every penny raised goes directly to help abused and neglected children!

Urban Born

2011-04-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

To learn more, please visit: www.urbanborn.org

Our History – “Urban Born” is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. The organization has been a philanthropic activity of Johnel Langerston (Founder & President) since 1999, consisting primarily of high school visits in participation of their respective Career Day. As a guest speaker, Johnel was often invited to give motivational presentations highlighting himself and his successful urban marketing company Phatefx, Inc. (www.phatefx.com). During these visits, Johnel enjoyed interacting with media savvy youth and providing encouragement, counseling and motivation. Far too often, however, he found himself crowded into the same room as other guest speakers where his ability to reach students on a one-on-one basis was diminished. He also notice that, in many cases, the high school students had a determined and made-up mind about the path they wanted to take, whether positive or negative. So he decided to focus his energy toward reaching middle school students and set them on a productive and positive path, so that they would be ready for the “Rite-of-Passage” that awaits them.

Statement of Purpose – To create a paradigm shift in urban communities nationwide through intense cause-and-effect programs, interactive multimedia content, seminars, and events for middle school age students to help them make better life choices, avoid crime, improve their lives and contribute to their community.

Mission Statement – Creating a positive change in the urban community, through assist its students with making informed and positive decisions by showing them the harsh realities of life from an urban perspective, using “Mental Straight” programs and techniques.

Vision – To be the paramount organization creating a positive paradigm shift in the lives of youth in the urban community, so that they can realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens, illuminating the primary social ills plaguing our nation.

Goals:
• To encourage the youth to stay in school off of the streets and drugs, out of gangs and in school.
• To instill in the youth respect for themselves, others and their community in order to contribute to the battle against teen pregnancy, gangs, graffiti and tagging.
• To inspire racial harmony, primarily between African-Americans and Latinos.

Why We Do What We Do
Did you know that in the United States well over 1 million students drop out of school every year? In other words, that means over 6000 students a day which comes out to at least 1 student every 29 seconds. According to national data, students from low-income families are 2.4 times more likely to become a “drop out” than children of middle-income families, and even 10.5 times likelier than children of high-income families.

Think that this is just an urban or inner city problem? Think Again! There are extreme social implications as the result of a child dropping out of school and dealing with the stresses and frustrations associated with their choices. Our nation’s prisons and death row inmates are made up of, by a disproportionate percentage, “dropouts”. According to one research study high school “dropouts” make up 82% of the America prison population. “Dropouts” are eight times more likely to be in jail or prison than high school graduates; and likely to make almost $10,000 less per year than high school graduates; and is at least twice as likely to slip into poverty than high school graduates, and three times as likely than collage graduates.

Your donation goes towards programs, workshops, equipment and more that’s used to keep our youth off the streets and out of gangs and in school, while providing them with positive life and career skills.

It’s Easier To Catch On Now, Than To Catch Up Later.

Inspire Change Foundation

2011-04-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

For more information, please visit: www.inspirechangefoundation.org

The Inspire Change Foundation was established in 2010 by former Biggest Loser contestant and nationwide health advocate Tara Costa as a way to pass on the lessons learned through The Biggest Loser and pay it forward for generations to come. Through her own inspirational journey, Tara has become a master motivator and inspirational mentor for thousands of people all over the world. The Inspire Change Foundation is yet another dream Tara has seen come to fruition with hard work, desire and an unmatched passion for giving back. Stay tuned for more details! In the meantime, feel free to contact us at info@inspirechangefoundation.org with any questions or comments!

MISSION:
The mission of the Inspire Change Foundation is to promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging you to embrace positive changes to achieve your goals and inspire change in yourself and others.

VISION:
The Inspire Change Foundation strives to be the most trusted source for inspiring you to become empowered to lead a healthy active life.

What’s stopping you? Join Tara now…
Get Inspired. Change Your Life.

Youth In Need

2011-04-26T17:50:00.000-07:00

To learn more, please visit: www.youthinneed.org

Youth In Need is a nonprofit child and family services agency, headquartered in St. Charles, Mo. Through a variety of crisis prevention and intervention programs, Youth In Need is dedicated to building positive futures for the community’s most vulnerable children, teens and families.

Each year, Youth In Need serves more than 10,000 children, teens and families with residential homes, foster care case management, homeless outreach, counseling and support groups, education and infant, child and family development at more than 25 sites, spanning 100-miles, in six counties in eastern Missouri.

Youth In Need was founded by community volunteers, who opened the organization’s Emergency Shelter in 1974. It is through the generous support of community volunteers, business leaders and donors that Youth In Need has been able to continue its mission of believing in the power of potential.

Because every child deserves a future...
Youth In Need has been serving the greater St. Louis area since 1974, when volunteers reached out to the agency's first client. A teenage runaway, who left her home after another beating, was picked up on the streets and taken to the local jail with adult criminals. Troubled by the community's response to runaway and homeless teens, volunteers changed the way these teens were treated by opening Youth In Need's Emergency Shelter.

Today, more than 300 full- and part-time staff serve more than 10,000 of the area's most vulnerable children, teens and families at 25 locations in six counties in eastern Missouri.

A reputation for excellence...
Youth In Need is applauded for the professionalism of its staff and effectiveness of its programs.

Youth In Need:

Is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
Is a recipient of the United Way of Greater St. Louis' highest possible quality rating.
Is a recipient of the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance Seal of Approval.
Is recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as an "exemplary program."
Practices evidence-based programs, based on solid research and proven, effective approaches.

Habitat For Humanity

2011-04-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

For more information, please visit: www.habitat.org
You can also make a donation in honor of Mother's Day at: https://www.habitat.org/cd/giving/one/donate.aspx?link=387&askstring=1&source_code=DHQOA1104W1005&tgs=NC8yNS8yMDExIDg6NDU6MzQgUE0%3d

Habitat for Humanity fact sheet (frequently asked questions)

What is Habitat for Humanity International?

A nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry.
We seek to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.
To accomplish these goals, we invite people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need.
Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 by Millard Fuller, along with his wife, Linda.
Today, we have helped build over 400,000 decent, affordable houses and served more than 2 million people around the world.

Habitat volunteers and homeowners build side-by-side in New Orleans, Louisiana

How does it work?

Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses alongside our homeowner (partner) families.
Habitat is not a giveaway program. In addition to a down payment and monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor (sweat equity) into building their Habitat house and the houses of others.
Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit and financed with affordable loans.
The homeowners’ monthly mortgage payments are used to build still more Habitat houses.
How are partner families selected?

Families in need of decent shelter apply to local Habitat affiliates.
The affiliate’s family selection committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program and their ability to repay the loan.
Every affiliate follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection.
Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing the families who receive Habitat houses.
What are Habitat affiliates?

Community-level Habitat for Humanity offices that act in partnership with and on behalf of Habitat for Humanity International.
Each affiliate is an independently run, nonprofit organization.
Each affiliate coordinates all aspects of Habitat home building in its local area—fundraising; building site selection; partner family selection and support; house construction; and mortgage servicing.
Where does Habitat for Humanity operate?

Habitat is a worldwide organization, operating in all 50 states of the United States, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and dozens of other countries. Use our search engine to find local affiliates and connect with Habitat in your community.
Our operational headquarters are located in Americus, Georgia, USA.
Our administrative headquarters are located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
How are donations distributed and used?

Donations, whether to a local Habitat affiliate or to Habitat for Humanity International, are used as designated by the donor.
Gifts received by HFHI that are designated to a specific affiliate or building project are forwarded to that affiliate or project.
Undesignated gifts are used where most needed and for administrative expenses.
HFHI’s most recent audited financial statement is available online.
Who controls and manages Habitat for Humanity International?

An ecumenical, international board of directors determines policy and oversees and guides the mission of Habitat for Humanity International.
Board members are dedicated volunteers who are deeply concerned about the problems of poverty housing around the world.
The HFHI headquarters office operates with an administrative staff, assisted by a core group of professional and support employees and supplemented by volunteers.
Each local Habitat affiliate is managed by its own local volunteer board.
How does Habitat work with the government?

Our Government Relations and Advocacy team works with legislators and housing regulators to increase support for affordable homeownership and eliminate poverty housing.
We monitor public policies related to housing, community and international development.
We advocate policy choices that increase access to decent, affordable housing for people around the world.
We accept government funds for infrastructure, utilities, capacity building or training, and house building. We accept these funds so long as they have no conditions that would violate Habitat’s principles or limit its ability to proclaim its Christian identity.
How does a Habitat for Humanity affiliate get started?

Habitat affiliates start when concerned citizens of diverse backgrounds come together to address the problem of poverty housing in their community.
These volunteers research the community’s affordable housing needs and resources and evaluate the potential success of Habitat’s self-help model in their community.
The group then applies to HFHI to become an official Habitat affiliate.
If you are interested in eliminating poverty housing in your community, please call (800) HABITAT or (800) 422-4828. Those calling from outside the United States may contact HFHI headquarters at 01-229-924-6935.
How can I become a volunteer?

Use our search engine to find your local Habitat for Humanity and their volunteer opportunities.
Explore our Get Involved section.
How can I get more information?
Through any of the following methods:

Explore our Contact Us page.
Write to Habitat for Humanity International, 121 Habitat Street, Americus, GA 31709-3498, USA.
Call 1 (800) 422-4828.
E-mail us with your General Questions.

American Diabetes Association

2011-04-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

For more information please visit, www.diabetes.org.

DIABETES BASICS:
Diabetes mellitus (MEL-ih-tus), or simply, diabetes, is a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose levels that result from defects in the body's ability to produce and/or use insulin.

Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.

DIABETES SYMPTOMS:
Type 1 Diabetes
Frequent urination
Unusual thirst
Extreme hunger
Unusual weight loss
Extreme fatigue and Irritability

Type 2 Diabetes*
Any of the type 1 symptoms
Frequent infections
Blurred vision
Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet
Recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections
*Often people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms

DIABETES STATISTICS:
Data from the 2011 National Diabetes Fact Sheet (released Jan. 26, 2011)
Total prevalence of diabetes
Total: 25.8 million children and adults in the United States—8.3% of the population—have diabetes.

Diagnosed: 18.8 million people
Undiagnosed: 7.0 million people
Prediabetes: 79 million people*
New Cases: 1.9 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed in people aged 20 years and older in 2010.

* In contrast to the 2007 National Diabetes Fact Sheet, which used fasting glucose data to estimate undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes, the 2011 National Diabetes Fact Sheet uses both fasting glucose and A1C levels to derive estimates for undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes. These tests were chosen because they are most frequently used in clinical practice.

Under 20 years of age
215,000, or 0.26% of all people in this age group have diabetes
About 1 in every 400 children and adolescents has type 1 diabetes

Age 20 years or older - 25.6 million, or 11.3% of all people in this age group have diabetes
Age 65 years or older - 10.9 million, or 26.9% of all people in this age group have diabetes
Men - 13.0 million, or 11.8% of all men aged 20 years or older have diabetes
Women - 12.6 million, or 10.8% of all women aged 20 years or older have diabetes

Warriors In Pink

2011-04-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

For more information, visit www.fordcares.com

Ford is proud of its 17-year National Sponsorship of the Komen Race for the Cure®. To date, Ford has dedicated more than $110 million to the cause. Our commitment runs well beyond raising funds. We know that awareness leads to early detection and early detection saves lives, so we are also working to increase breast cancer awareness, last year creating over one billion media impressions. We also encourage our employees to participate. More than 75,000 Ford employees have participated in the Race for the Cure and thousands of our dealers support local events in their area.

More than 75,000 Ford employees have run or walked in Races across the country to support the cause, and thousands of Ford Dealers across the nation have gotten involved by participating in their local Komen Race for the Cure events.

Nancy Brinker founded Susan G. Komen for the Cure in 1982 in memory of her sister, who died of breast cancer at age 36. 1983 marked the beginning of the Komen Race for the Cure, which has grown from one Race in 1983 to more than 127 Races and more than 1.7 million participants planned for 2011.

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Series raises significant funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer, celebrating breast cancer survivorship and honoring those who have lost their battle with the disease. With funds raised by the

Komen Race for the Cure Series, Komen, along with its Affiliate Network, is able to fund breast cancer research grants, meritorious awards and educational, scientific and community outreach programs around the world.

For information on how to sign up for the Komen Race for the Cure® in your area, please call 1-888-603-RACE or visit komen.org.

Ronald McDonald House Charities

2011-04-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

To learn more about Ronald McDonald House Charities visit: www.rmhc.org

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well being of children. Guiding us in our mission are our core values:

* Focusing on the critical needs of children.
* Celebrating the diversity of the programs we offer and the staff, volunteers and donors who make them possible.
* Staying true to our heritage of 36 years of responsible stewardship.
* Operating with accountability and transparency.

Vision
We believe that when you change a child’s life, you change a family’s, which can change a community, and ultimately the world.

We strive to be part of that change and part of the solution in improving the lives of children and their families by providing programs that strengthen families during their most difficult or challenging times. We extend our reach and impact by leveraging our 36 years of experience and strong relationships with local communities and people in the field to continually establish Chapters across the globe. We continually work to improve and expand our core programs, while also developing new services to address the unique needs of the communities we serve.

We don’t do it alone. We rely on our Chapters to identify needs and carry out our mission on the ground. We rely on our strong relationships with the medical community to provide access to health care. We rely on strategic alliances with organizations that have the knowledge and infrastructure to extend our reach. We rely on you – our donors, volunteers, staff and friends.

RMHC makes an immediate, positive impact on children’s lives through our global network of Chapters in 52 countries and regions and through our three core programs: Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

We award grants to other nonprofit organizations that align with our mission to positively impact the health and well being of children.

We are also committed to education. Local Chapters award thousands of scholarships each year through RMHC U.S. Scholarships to students entering college across the United States.

Boys & Girls Club of America

2011-04-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

In every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.

Boys & Girls Clubs offer that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.

Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow – all while having fun. It is the place where great futures are started each and every day.

There are 6 main programs that we concentrate on. Education & Career, Character & Leadership, Health and Life Skills, Arts, Sports, Fitness and Recreation, and Specialized.

To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America, please visit: www.bgca.org

Make-A-Wish Foundation

2011-04-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

To learn more about Make-A-Wish Foundation, please visit: www.wish.org

Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation's mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish® experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors and entire communities.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in 1980 after a little boy named Chris Greicius realized his heartfelt wish to become a police officer. Since its humble beginnings, the organization has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, reaching more than 250,000 children around the world.

Although it has become one of the world's most well-known charities, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has maintained the grassroots fulfillment of its mission.

A network of nearly 25,000 volunteers enable the Make-A-Wish Foundation to serve children with life-threatening medical conditions. Volunteers serve as wish granters, fundraisers, special events assistants and in numerous other capacities.

As the Foundation continues to mature, its mission will remain steadfast. Wish children of the past, present and future will have an opportunity to share the power of a wish®.

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research

2011-04-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease through an aggressively funded research agenda and to ensuring the development of improved therapies for those living with Parkinson’s today.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder of unknown cause that affects nearly 5 million individuals worldwide. While advancing age remains the greatest risk factor, PD can strike people even under age 30. The full spectrum of Parkinson’s disease is not well addressed by current treatments, which can only mask some symptoms as the underlying disease continues to worsen. Learn more here about the disease, how to cope with diagnosis, and why MJFF believes a cure is within reach.

To learn more and help The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, log on to www.michaeljfox.org.

The Light Foundation

2011-04-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

www.mattlightfoundation.org

Mission:
The Light Foundation strives to instill and augment the values of responsibility, accountability, and hard work by providing youth with unique outdoor learning experiences that assist them in reaching their highest potential. Our goal is to lead young people down a path to becoming responsible member of their communities who are capable of passing on the torch of leadership and achievement to their friends and families.

Article found on www.tonic.com
An NFL Pro Making a Profound Difference in Kids Lives
BY JENNIFER BIRN | APRIL 8, 2011

As the NFL faces the possibility of a lockout and delayed start to the season, players like The Patriots three-time Super Bowl winner Matt Light are dedicating the time to causes they care about. For Light, that’s The Light Foundation, a non-profit he began to help at-risk children grow into becoming the best adults they can be by employing tactics that he attributes to his own success.

Aiming to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators, The Light Foundation’s mission is to, “Instill and augment the values of responsibility, accountability, and hard work by providing youth with unique outdoor learning experiences that assist them in reaching their highest potential.”

Light says, “I believe in helping out any way you can. I feel like there’s a real purpose for every person in life and believe we’re all here for a reason,” adding, “I think we all need to help each other out, and honestly and accountability and working hard are things I personally embody.”

The Light Foundation accomplishes their goals by providing college scholarships to high school kids who have shown leadership skills but may not have the means to build upon their potential and since 2008, it has been focusing its funds and attention on The Vohokase Camp at Chenoweth Trails in Greenville, Ohio. Each summer Light hosts at-risk a group of children from varied social classes and backgrounds during a week at the camp where they do a community service project, go on a career day to big area businesses, engage in fireside chats about goals and expectations and participate in activities such as fishing and various athletics activities.

“The main goal of the camp is to break down prejudices and barrier,” says Light. “At the end of the day, these kids realize that even with different backgrounds, they have a lot I common, like family issues and peer pressure – but they find common ground and learn from one another. It’s always a great experience for all of us.”

Those that do today’s deed and make a donation to The Light Foundation here, will be entered to win a football or jersey personally autographed to you by Matt Light!. Our goal is to help raise $5000, so we need 200 football fans to make a donation of $25. That's not too much to pay to help create a great memory for a kid while getting yourself in the running for priceless memorabilia!

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

2011-04-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

ALL LIVES HAVE EQUAL VALUE

Their belief that every life has equal value is at the core of their work at the foundation. They follow 15 guiding principles, which help define their approach to their philanthropic work, and employ an outstanding leadership team to direct our strategies and grantmaking.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The 15 principles below reflect the Gates family's beliefs about the role of philanthropy and the impact they want this foundation to have. The principles guide what we do, why we do it, and how we do it.

While many of them are fundamental to the way we operate, we will remain open to amending them as we grow and learn more about our work.

Guiding Principle #1: This is a family foundation driven by the interests and passions of the Gates family.

Guiding Principle #2: Philanthropy plays an important but limited role.

Guiding Principle #3: Science and technology have great potential to improve lives around the world.

Guiding Principle #4: We are funders and shapers—we rely on others to act and implement.

Guiding Principle #5: Our focus is clear—and limited—and prioritizes some of the most neglected issues.

Guiding Principle #6: We identify a specific point of intervention and apply our efforts against a theory of change.

Guiding Principle #7: We take risks, make big bets, and move with urgency. We are in it for the long haul.

Guiding Principle #8: We advocate—vigorously but responsibly—in our areas of focus.

Guiding Principle #9: We must be humble and mindful in our actions and words. We seek and heed the counsel of outside voices.

Guiding Principle #10: We treat our grantees as valued partners, and we treat the ultimate beneficiaries of our work with respect.

Guiding Principle #11: Delivering results with the resources we have been given is of the utmost importance—and we seek and share information about those results.

Guiding Principle #12: We demand ethical behavior of ourselves.

Guiding Principle #13: We treat each other as valued colleagues.

Guiding Principle #14: Meeting our mission—to increase opportunity and equity for those most in need—requires great stewardship of the money we have available.

Guiding Principle #15: We leave room for growth and change.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GATES FOUNDATION PLEASE GO TO: www.gatesfoundation.org

Thank you!

Dizzy Feet Foundation

2011-04-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

www.dizzyfeetfoundation.org

Dizzy Feet Foundation was founded in 2009 by Nigel Lythgoe, Adam Shankman, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Katie Holmes to support, improve, and increase access to dance education in the United States. Guided by a board consisting of some of the most illustrious names in the American dance community, the foundation's mission is threefold: (1) to provide scholarships to talented students studying at accredited dance schools, studios, or institutions; (2) to establish national standards for dance education and an accreditation program for dance schools in all of the major styles of dance; and (3) to develop, provide, and/or support dance education programs for disadvantaged children through and with local community organizations.

DFF offers scholarships to dance students through its Scholarship Program. Scholarships of up to $10,000 will be granted annually. The Scholarship Program guidelines and application process will be posted on the DFF website in the near future. DFF also aims to increase and standardize the quality of dance instruction throughout the United States by offering accreditation and/or certification to dance schools and studios in most styles of dance, including ballroom, contemporary, ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop. DFF's Accreditation Program will be known as the American gold standard of dance instruction and will ensure that students know that they are receiving high-quality dance instruction based on a national standard. In addition, DFF also sponsors, funds, and/or offers community-based dance programs which will expose children in low-income areas to the lifelong benefits of dance education.

In order to further its mission, DFF accepts tax-deductible contributions from corporations, patrons, supporters, and dance fans and raises additional funds through direct solicitations, fundraisers, and other events.

Ryan Seacrest Foundation

2011-04-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill and injured children through unique programs that utilize multimedia and interactive platforms to enlighten, entertain and educate.

RSF’s first initiative is to build broadcast media centers, named THE VOICE℠, within pediatric hospitals for patients to explore the creative realms of radio, television and new media. RSF’s aim is to contribute positively to the healing process for children and their families during their stay by developing these centers to bring an uplifting spirit to the hospital community. We believe access to multimedia experiences will bring patients exciting and stimulating adventures to encourage optimistic thoughts during treatment and for the future. It is also our intent to reach out to the community and involve students from local journalism schools, colleges and universities to provide them with the opportunity to gain first hand experience in broadcasting, programming and operating a multimedia center.

The Ryan Seacrest Foundation has selected The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as its newest site for the construction of The Voice, an interactive broadcast multi-media center for sick and injured children.

For more information, go to www.ryanseacreastfoundation.org

The Mary Kay Foundation Helps Women in Violence and Cancer

2011-04-06T15:13:00.000-07:00

Check out the great work that The Mary Kay Foundation is doing.

http://www.marykayfoundation.org

There are many organizations and foundations that are out there helping women today. Mary Kay Ash started The Mary Kay Foundation in 1996 with a mission to eliminate cancer and to end the epidemic of violence against women. There are many ways to help. You can donate money, suits that you don't wear any more (still in good condition), walk, shop at certain grocery stores, recycle laptops, hand out cards with a violence information hotline and much more.

If you are interested in finding out more about the The Mary Kay Foundation, click on the link above.

Thanks!
Sheryl

Back to School

2010-08-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

This week has been a HUGE week for a lot of friends, family and pretty much everyone I know and don't know. Kids of all ages are headed back to school. On Facebook, I have seen photos of many kids standing outside their home front door, classroom door, in front of the locker, or sitting at their desk. In these photos I have also seen new books, new clothes, and new shoes. I have seen new school supplies, new bag packs, and new lunch boxes. I have seen tennis balls on school chairs, new folders and new computers.

With all of this "new" going on I have to wonder where is the old and what is being done with it? As you are reorganizing your closest or classrooms (for all you teachers out there), please consider making a difference in a young child or teenagers life. Pass those clothes on that don't fit anymore. Donate those supplies to an orphanage where kids of all ages and use them for their studies.

Have a great year of school!
Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Patience and Taking Turns

2010-07-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

Remember in kindergarten when we had to line up single file and take turns at the water fountain? It's funny how we were being taught those skills at such a young age so that we could carry them through life but somehow, we lose them along the way. I left Atlanta yesterday and went through 4 states in 6 1/2 hours. I have to say that Kentucky has the nicest drivers. They really do follow the rules of driving on the right and passing on the left. When getting on and off the highway, they take turns and are polite to let others in. I am a control freak when it comes to being behind the wheel but I have definitely learned a lesson for the rest of my trip.

Have patience on the road. Be nice and let others in.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Hundreds of Gulf-area pets homeless

2010-07-16T05:59:00.000-07:00

Many of you know my love of animals. I do not believe that they are just animals but are a part of the family as well. I do have a tendency to treat my dogs as humans, however, to be fair they do behave better than some humans out there. When a disaster happens to a neighborhood, town, or even a region, it is important for us to remember that it isn't just the humans that are affected. Because of the oil spill in the Gulf, there are hundreds of animals that have no home, or have died. Below are a few links to check out. Copy and paste them into your browser and who knows... you might be able to find $5 to donate or quite possibly even have a new member of your family.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

www.Facebook.com/DawnSavesWildlife

www.volunteerlatinamericablog.com/volunteer-at-gulf-oil-spill-animal-rescue

www.gcwr.org

http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/07/15/reporters-notebook-oil-and-the-family-pet/?on.cnn=1

Extra books?

2010-07-08T07:01:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and a lot of extra reading is getting done. Not only are you reading more while on vacation but perhaps your children are on the summer reading program. As your children grow up, what can you do with their baby/children's books? Certainly you don't want to keep all of those books cluttering up your house. Whether you have extra books that are yours or your child's, take them to a local orphanage or even a nursing home.

Things to include would be books, magazines, newspapers, and even catalogs.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Take a Chance

2010-07-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

In two weeks I am heading out for LA. I am getting in my car and driving across the country to take a chance. I am doing an internship with a charitable foundation that The Cheesecake Factory started. There I will be working with the Director learning how to start and run fundraising events. I made a commitment to myself this year that I was going to help others more. I have started and continued this blog. I have rode a bike for MS. I have done many volunteer "jobs". I have collected shoes for the people of Haiti. I have collected soda tabs that turn into money, and more. This I believe to be my greatest commitment thus far.

When I return from LA, I will be working on projects to raise money for groups such as The Ronald McDonald House, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and more. I have never done this before but believe that we can all do a little more to help others. And wether or not you realize it, when you are helping others, you end up helping yourself too.

Take a chance and volunteer. Just one day a month is a great place to start. Below is a website where you can go to find somewhere to help others. Make it fun and bring the family.

Members Project / TakePart Social Action Network: Important Issues, Activism, Environmental, Human Rights, Political News
http://www.takepart.com/membersproject

Thanks for Listening!
Sheryl

Mistakes and Change

2010-06-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

Over the last week or so I have been watching a lot of sporting events. Not that that is really different than normal but now I have added on the World Cup and the US Open. With the World Cup there are many teams that fell victim to bad calls from the refs. When something is called wrong, you can see the teams are now even more stressed and mentally it is much harder to get back in the game. What would have happened if the calls were made right? Would it bring more fans to the sport? Would it make a difference in peoples lives?

Now heading to the US Open, many times you are planing for yourself. There has been the longest game in history (3 days). What would have happened to John Isner if they would have given his body a full day of much needed rest before his next match? Maybe he would have not gotten creamed. Maybe he would have lost still but don't you think that much like a pitcher in baseball, rest is needed. There have also been many upsets. The Williams sisters are out of the doubles, and #1 Roger Federer literally just got beat by the #12 seed. What a boost this gives #12 Tomas Berdych from Chech Republic!

With all the hype for the big players in whatever sport it may be, change is good. Change brings new and exciting drama to the sport. Change brings new/old talent up for more recognition. Change brings interest and intrigue. If the same team/person were to win each and every year, it would get boring.

The same is said for our own lives. Change is good. Change doesn't have to be big or elaborate. Maybe it is a date night with your honey. A special day with your kids. A change in wardrobe, hair, or shoes. Change could be a different place to eat out this week. Change could be making a phone call instead of sending a text or an email. What if you took that day with your kids and you went to the local food pantry and bagged food? What if the place you went out to eat was donating a percentage of your bill to help the children's hospital? What if the change in your wardrobe meant that while you were getting something new for yourself, you were donating your old stuff to the homeless? What if by calling someone you brightened their day just because they heard your voice and they passed along the happiness to others?

Change is good. We all need change.

Thanks for listening,
Sheryl

2010-06-23T12:10:00.001-07:00

Today the US soccer team came back in the 91st minute to win the must win game. Even with the bad call last week and the same bad call today, they still believed. They believed in themselves. They believed in their bodies. They believed in the fight. The fight for a title for the USA. When you think the referees and the world are against you, fight for yourself. Believe in you. Landon Donovan believed and followed through. Keep believing.

Eat out for LESS MONEY!

2010-06-21T06:22:00.000-07:00

Want to eat out for less money? Go to www.restaurants.com and you can buy $25 gift certificates for just $2.00. I have used this several times and it saves a ton of money.

Enjoy!
Sheryl

Politeness and Manners

2010-06-19T11:55:00.001-07:00

I was out shopping today (which I hate) and I was astonished at the politeness of people in the mall. I was at Macy's for their "One Day" Sale and as usual, it was insane. I shopped for a little bit and went to the fitting rooms. It gets a little tiring walking around and standing with this boot on my leg. Anyway, while waiting in line, I had several women ask me if I would like to sit in a chair and I would still be able to keep my place in line. It was very generous of them but I respectfully declined. I went in to the fitting room, tried on my clothes and proceeded to the nearest register. A worker asked to hold my clothes at the register while I waited in line. It was awfully nice of her. She did not have to do that.

I moved on to the next store. While shopping in the store, it was nothing different than I would experience on a normal day. The associates were polite and helpful but nothing more. And to be honest, nothing more was expected. I finished my purchases and began walking out of the mall, I noticed about half a dozen people just staring at me on my way out to the parking garage. I understand that it isn't everyday you see someone walking around with a bit boot on their leg but still... It isn't nice to stare.

When I entered the parking garage, I went to the elevator. I parked up on the 2nd level. I waited for about 5 minutes for the elevator and it never came. As I was about to gather my bags and head up the 4 flights of stairs, a few girls were coming down. One said to me, "Ma'am," like I am old or something, "I think the elevator is stuck on an upper floor." I thanked her and began heading up the stairs. I had 3 heavy bags full of purchases and my purse (which really should be considered a bag itself). As I rounded the the top of the first flight of stairs a teenage boy and his father were passing me on their way down. The boys were approaching me first. The first passed, the second slowed down, stopped and asked me if I would like some help with my bags. I respectfully declined as I did earlier but I was pleased to see a kid with manners.

So often as children we are taught manners and know when to use them, but choose not too. And as parents we hope that what we instill in our children stays with them and they choose to take what they have learned and use it correctly. Not only was I happy to see a teenager with manners, but I was also proud of his parents for teaching him what is right.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

It's not all about you.

2010-06-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I found a few websites for everyone to look.

www.charityhappenings.org
You can find events to attend in your area to help others. If you have an event that you are hosting and would like to post for others to see, you can post it on there as well.

www.tonic.com
Find programs and people who care about helping others. Share in their stories, be inspired and get ideas on what you can do to help those less fortunate not only around you but far away.

www.citizenyou.org
This site is about how active citizens can bring about social change. Jonathan Tisch wrote a book and is helping to change the world. He is sharing his secrets with us. You can post your story and also find places to volunteer.

It is important to remember that while volunteering makes us feel good, it is not about us. It is about those in need. If you find a cause that is important to you, ask them what they need help with the most.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Struggles

2010-05-15T06:23:00.000-07:00

There are so many things in life that we as people (and human beings) struggle with. Many of times we are aware of our struggles. Perhaps we even put our own selves in the situation on purpose. For instance, the bike ride for MS that I did. I on my own, put myself in a struggling situation. I hadn't rode a bike since junior high and then I committed to riding one for 63 miles. With that being said, it was a good struggle.

Other times there are struggles within ourselves. For instance it could be what we want to be when we grow up, how to deal with a loss in our life, or simply a way to get through the day. It is hard to deal with these struggles as there is no cure, there is no remedy and there is no definite end. When times like this arise, I am reminded of a sign that my friend has hanging by her front door. Much like the Footprints poem, remember you are not alone. Her sign reads:

"To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did. When God takes something from your grasp, He is not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you. Something good will happen to you today."

I hope you have a fantastic day and that you will remember the above quote when you have a struggle of any kind.

Thanks for listening,
Sheryl

MS Bike Ride

2010-05-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It has been quite some time since I have last been on here. The time came closer and closer to the bike ride for Multiple Sclerosis and I found myself consumed. I was on the bike 6 days a week and my last ride ended up being 44 miles. The thing is, is that the path that I have been riding for the 6 weeks prior to the ride is only 7 miles in length. So to ride it back and forth for hours can get pretty mundaine.

As I prepared for my ride, I was also planning travel, working, and continuing to fundraise for MS. We left and were off to the Martha's Vineyard. The weather was fantastic! Apparently the last 3 or 4 years it was just cold. People were wearing earmuff and gloves. This year it was upper 70's and sunny. I told everyone that I packed the sun in my suitcase and brought it with me from Atlanta. I actually have suntan lines on my legs from my bike shorts.

There are a lot of hills in Martha's Vineyard. I had no idea! The first 23 miles were nothing but hills but after that, it was a slight incline and riding along the coastline. Just beautiful! I finished in just under 6 hours with 3 water breaks and a 20 minute lunch break. 6 hours was my goal so I am very pleased with myself.

All in all I raised nearly $2,500 for MS and had the experience of a lifetime! I was able to ride for those who can't. I was able to ride for those who some can't even walk. I was able to raise money from family and friends to help find a cure for MS.

Thank you all who donated and supported me throughout the journey.

Thank You!

2010-04-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

It has been a few weeks since I have written anything or educated you on a new subject. My bike ride is coming up in just 11 days and I spend extra time out on the bike training. I am getting so very excited for the ride and can't believe it is so close. I was out riding yesterday and after about 2 hours, my butt was starting hurt. I mean seriously, why wouldn't it. Anyway, I thought I would start to head back to the house. Then I started thinking about all the people who have MS and how many of them can't even walk. I was also thinking about all of those people who have donated. I kept thinking that if all of these people have donated then they believe in me. They believe that I can make a difference. They believe that me riding a bike for 62 miles can make a difference and possibly help find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. I continued to ride for another hour. So "Thank You!". "Thank You!" to all of those who have donated. "Thank You!" for believing in me and for caring about others. You all have made a difference in me.

Thanks for listening.
Sheryl

Shoes for children - TOMS Shoes

2010-04-08T05:58:00.000-07:00

TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One. Using the purchasing power of individuals to benefit the greater good is what we're all about. The TOMS One for One business model transforms our customers into benefactors, which allows us to grow a truly sustainable business rather than depending on fundraising for support.

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.

You must OFFICIALLY register at http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com to be entered to WIN a TOMS Shoe Drop!!

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FAQ:

. . Why would a shoe company sponsor an event to not wear shoes...
Why would a company GIVE away a pair of shoes for every pair they sold? Sure, it might sound crazy at first but One Day Without Shoes expresses everything we stand for: educating consumers about the impact a pair of shoes can have on a child's like and empowering them with simple actions that address the need for shoes. Learn more at http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com

. . Sorry, I work... I can't participate!
There are a ton of creative ways to participate in One Day Without Shoes. Walk for an hour barefoot after work, plan a barefoot evening event or breakfast with friends, participate simply by sharing the message with friends who are able go with no shoes. The possibilities are endless, and people are getting creative. There are plenty of events all across the country: search by zip code at http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com

. . Will i get in trouble for not wearing shoes??
We hope not. But we've anticipated your coworkers, teachers, principals, or community leaders having questions. We have a letter you can download and send to them at http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com. Go check it out!

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LATEST NEWS:

- Find events in your area or create your own event by visiting http://www.onedaywithoutshoes.com

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SHARE THE FACTS:

Fact #1:In some developing nations, children must walk for miles to food, clean water and to seek medical help.

Fact #2:Cuts and sores on feet can lead to serious infection.

Fact #3:Often, children cannot attend school barefoot.

Fact #4:In Ethiopia, approximately one million people are suffering from Podoconiosis, a debilitating and disfiguring disease caused by walking barefoot in volcanic soil.

Fact #5: Podoconiosis is 100% preventable by wearing shoes.

Autism

2010-04-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the brain, autism interferes with the normal development of the brain in the areas of reasoning, social interaction, and communication skills. Children and adults with autism typically have deficiencies in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities. The disorder makes it hard for them to communicate with others and relate to the outside world. They may exhibit repeated body movements (hand flapping, rocking, etc.), have unusual responses to people or attachments to objects and resist changes in routines. In come cases, aggressive and/or self-injurious behavior may occur. Individuals may also experience sensitivities to the five senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.

How is Autism Diagnosed?
There are no medical tests for diagnosing autism. An accurate diagnosis must be based on observation of the individual’s communication, behavior, and developmental levels. However, because many of the behaviors associated with autism are shared by other disorders, various medical tests may be ordered to rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms exhibited.

A diagnosis of autism is based on the standards set forth in a diagnostic handbook, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, now in its fourth edition (DSM-IV). The diagnosis of autism is made when a specified number of characteristics listed in the DSM-IV are present in ranges inappropriate for the child’s age. By comparison, a diagnosis of PDD-NOS may be made when a child exhibits fewer symptoms than in autism, although those symptoms may be exactly the same as those in a child with an autism diagnosis. Asperger’s disorder tends to involve symptoms more markedly different than those seen in autism, although there are some similarities.

A brief observation in a single setting cannot present a true picture of an individual’s abilities and behaviors. Parental input and developmental history are very important components of making an accurate diagnosis. At first glance, persons with autism may appear to have mental retardation, a behavior disorder, problems with hearing, or even odd and eccentric behavior. To complicate matters further, these conditions can co-occur in autism. However, it is important to distinguish autism from other disorders so that an appropriate and effective educational and treatment plan can be determined.

Most professionals will agree that there is no standard “type” or “typical” person with autism. Parents may hear more that one label applied to the same child: for example, autistic-like, communication disorder with autistic tendencies, significant developmental delay with autistic tendencies, high functioning or low functioning autism, mild or moderate or severe autism. These labels don’t describe the differences between the children as much as they may indicate differences in professionals’ training, vocabulary and exposure to autism. More important than the term used is to understand that, whatever the diagnosis, children and adults with autism can learn and function productively and show gains with appropriate education and treatment.

Many professionals still argue whether Asperger’s is truly a form of autism. Some professionals believe the distinction between autism and PDD-NOS is not significant. Some may believe they are “sparing” the parents by giving a diagnosis of PDD-NOS rather than autism. Unfortunately, this can lead to failure to obtain the appropriate services for the child. It is important to understand that whatever the type of autism diagnosis, these children are likely to benefit from similar approaches to education and treatment. We cannot stress enough, the importance of securing a timely and accurate diagnosis.

What Causes Autism?
Medical researchers are exploring different explanations for the various forms of autism. Although no one cause of autism is known, current research links autism to biological or neurological differences in the brain. Scans such as the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) show abnormalities in the structure of the brain, with significant differences within the cerebellum including the size and number or Purkinje cells. In some families there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities. This suggests there is a genetic basis to the disorder, although no one gene has been directly linked to autism. In all likelihood, research will show that several genes are involved.

Several previous theories about the cause of autism have been proven false. Autism is not a mental illness. Children with autism are not unruly kids who choose not to behave. Autism is not caused by bad parenting. Furthermore, no known psychological factors in the development of the child have been shown to cause autism.

Here are some helpful websites if you want to learn more.

www.autism-society.org
www.autismspeaks.org
www.autism.org
www.asaga.com

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

2010-04-05T05:52:00.001-07:00

As I continue to help others and keep everyone educated about things, it is heavy on my heart to write about today's topic.

SIDS is the sudden death of an infant under one year of age which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation, including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical history. (Willinger et al, 1991).

In a typical situation parents check on their supposedly sleeping infant to find him or her dead. This is the worst tragedy parents can face, a tragedy which leaves them with a sadness and a feeling of vulnerability that lasts throughout their lives. Since medicine can not tell them why their baby died, they blame themselves and often other innocent people. Their lives and those around them are changed forever.

In the last 25 years the rate of SIDS has gone dramatically down. However, since the death is unexplainable, it it hard to know how to prevent it. There are some things that can be done to help reduce the risk of SIDS. So, What can be done?

Unfortunately, we cannot expect to prevent all SIDS deaths now. To do so requires a much greater understanding of SIDS, which will be achieved only with a commitment from those who value babies and with a considerably expanded research effort. However, there are things that can be done to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Parents-To-Be

1. Get medical care early in pregnancy, preferably within the first three months, followed by regular checkups at the doctor's office or health clinic. Make every effort to assure good nutrition. These measures can reduce the risk of premature birth, a major risk factor for SIDS.

2. Do not smoke, use cocaine, or use heroin. Tobacco, cocaine, or heroin use during pregnancy increases the infant's risk for SIDS.

3. Don’t get pregnant during the teenage years. If you are a teen and already have one infant, take extreme caution not to become pregnant again. The SIDS rate decreases for babies born to older mothers. It is highest for babies born to teenage mothers. The more babies a teen mother has, the greater at risk they are.

4. Wait at least one year between the birth of a child and the next pregnancy.The shorter the interval between pregnancies, the higher the SIDS rate.

Parents

1. Place infants to sleep on their backs, even though they may sleep more soundly on their stomachs. Infants who sleep on their stomachs and sides have a much higher rate of SIDS than infants who sleep on their backs.

2. Place infants to sleep in a baby bed with a firm mattress. There should be nothing in the bed but the baby - no covers, no pillows, no bumper pads, no positioning devices and no toys. Soft mattresses and heavy covering are associated with the risk for SIDS.

3. Keep your baby’s crib in the parents’ room until the infant is at least 6 months of age. Studies clearly show that infants are safest when their beds are close to their mothers.

4. Do not place your baby to sleep in an adult bed. Typical adult beds are not safe for babies. Do not fall asleep with your baby on a couch or in a chair.

5. Do not over-clothe the infant while she sleeps. Just use enough clothes to keep the baby warm without having to use cover. Keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for you. Overheating an infant may increase the risk for SIDS.

6. Avoid exposing the infant to tobacco smoke. Don't have your infant in the same house or car with someone who is smoking. The greater the exposure to tobacco smoke, the greater the risk of SIDS.

7. Breast-feed babies whenever possible. Breast milk decreases the occurrence of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Studies show that breast-fed babies have a lower SIDS rate than formula-fed babies do.

8. Avoid exposing the infant to people with respiratory infections. Avoid crowds. Carefully clean anything that comes in contact with the baby. Have people wash their hands before holding or playing with your baby. SIDS often occurs in association with relatively minor respiratory (mild cold) and gastrointestinal infections (vomiting and diarrhea).

9. Offer your baby a pacifier. Some studies have shown a lower rate of SIDS among babies who use pacifiers.

10. If your baby has periods of not breathing, going limp or turning blue, tell your pediatrician at once.

11. If your baby stops breathing or gags excessively after spitting up, discuss this with your pediatrician immediately.

12. Thoroughly discuss each of the above points with all caregivers. If you take your baby to daycare or leave him with a sitter, provide a copy of this list to them. Make sure they follow all recommendations.

WANNA KNOW HOW YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE?

Give a cash donation. Send a check or make a donation on-line (www.sids.org) with a credit card. If this donation is in memory of a SIDS infant or another loved one, an acknowledgement will be sent to the family of the deceased.

Hold an Event. An event to benefit the American SIDS Institute can help raise awareness about SIDS while raising much needed funds for research. For information about fundraising events call 1-800-232-7437 and ask for the Director of Development.

Donate Stock. By donating stock you can fight SIDS and probably receive a charitable tax deduction and avoid capital gains taxes at the same time. If you would like information about stock donations or planned giving call 1-800-232-7437.

Shop and Help Fight SIDS. Although the Institute does not endorse products we have entered into co-marketing agreements with several companies. The companies have agreed to provide us with a certain amount of money for every product sold. Therefore, if you are considering buying products such as those featured on our website, please buy those products that provide money for our research.

Donate an Auction Item. If you have an item(s) that you would like to donate for our silent or live auctions please call the American SIDS Institute 1-800-232-7437.

Use a Planned Giving Strategy. Talk to your financial advisor about building the American SIDS Institute into your planned giving strategy. Call the Institute and request a planned giving brochure.

In whatever way you choose to give, know that you are helping to defeat the number one cause of death in infants from one month to one year of age. Thank you!

Thanks for listening!!
Sheryl

Heart Disease

2010-04-01T18:33:00.000-07:00

Did you know that HEART DISEASE IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH for men and women in the US ? !

Some ways to prevent heart disease are:
* quit smoking (I know this hard. I have done it myself.)
* lower your cholesterol
* control your high blood pressure
* maintain a healthy weight
* exercise

If you would like to know more and learn more about Heart Disease click on one of the following links:
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease
www.americanheart.org
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heart-disease/DS01120

Helping those with Lupus

2010-03-31T12:16:00.000-07:00

Let's start off with, What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Chronic means that the signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for many years. In lupus, something goes wrong with your immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs ("foreign invaders," like the flu). Normally our immune system produces proteins called antibodies that protect the body from these invaders. Autoimmune means your immune system cannot tell the difference between these foreign invaders and your body’s healthy tissues ("auto" means "self") and creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Lupus is also a disease of flares (the symptoms worsen and you feel ill) and remissions (the symptoms improve and you feel better). Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
Lupus is not contagious, not even through sexual contact. You cannot "catch" lupus from someone or "give" lupus to someone.
Lupus is not like or related to cancer. Cancer is a condition of malignant, abnormal tissues that grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, as described above.
Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS the immune system is underactive; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.
Our research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. The actual number may be higher; however, there have been no large-scale studies to show the actual number of people in the U.S. living with lupus.
It is believed that 5 million people throughout the world have a form of lupus.
Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age (15-44). However, men, children, and teenagers develop lupus, too.
Women of color are 2-3 times more likely to develop lupus.
People of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus.
More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country

Please click www.lupus.org to find out more information such as what causes lupus, the different forms of lupus, symptoms, and how to diagnos lupus.

HOW TO HELP THOSE WITH LUPUS...
* donate money
* walk for lupus
* conduct a health fair
* become an advocate
* find your local office and volunteer using your administrative abilities

You can find all this information and more at www.lupus.org

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Coupons & Discounts

2010-03-24T21:27:00.000-07:00

I was at an event this evening taking some photographs and while swaping biz cards, I received a card from a lovely lady Aimee Brittian. Aimee does work for you by finding coupons and discounts. Click on her link below and the hard work has been done for you.

Have fun shopping!

http://thecoupondiva.com/

Better Yourself

2010-03-22T05:56:00.000-07:00

Today is going to be a little different. I am sitting here on the couch pouting because it is cold and rainy outside and I "can't" ride my bike outside. I don't really want to go to the gym because they don't have good channels over there so there is nothing good on tv.

As you know I am in training for a 62.5 mile bike ride for Multiple Sclerosis. I am taking one thing at a time and while procrastinating on the internet (and a Facebook friend) I have found a great website that helps us new exercisers learn to do things right and not to over do it.

Today's blog is to help yourself. Get up off the couch, go for a run, a ride, or just do some sit-ups during the commercials. Anything to get going. Summer is on the way and we will all want to be outside as much as possible.

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

Call a cab or find a sober driver

2010-03-17T06:47:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Today there are a lot of festivities going on. There are parades, pub crawls, parties, and just going out drinking that little thing we call green beer. While being irish is great and today is a free reason to party (like we need one), just remember to be safe while having fun! Find a designated driver or call a cab to take you home.

Have fun and Happy St. Patty's Day to ya!

Coupons & Discounts

2010-03-09T19:11:00.000-08:00

I have a friend on Facebook and let me tell you... She ROCKS!!! Every day she is posting something new about a discount that she has found. She posts links with coupons. I am going to "steal" all of her information and pass it on to you. I hope you are able to get something from all of the information that is being passed on to you.

DISCOUNTS & COUPONS:

Become a fan (on Facebook) of Physicians Formula for a Buy 1 Get 1 Free Coupon (up to $19.99)! All you need to do is click on the 'register now' button after becoming a fan. I had to click on this twice before the registration form appeared. After registering you will receive your coupon via e-mail.

"Papa's In The House" HOOPS Sweepstakes
Enter NOW to win everything you need – a flat screen TV, Papa John's pizza and Coke Zero - for viewing great NCAA® Division I Men's and Women’s Championship Basketball Games!

Many Walgreens across the country have Sally Hershberger Shampoos &
Conditioners (originally $9 - $12) on clearance for $2.39! Use the $2.00 off coupon on RedPlum to make these $0.39! Keep
in mind that prices may vary by location and not all Walgreens will have this as a clearance item but it is definitely worth checking out! www.coupons.redplum.com

From the Coldwater Creek Facebook Fan Page: Through Thursday, 3/11/10, you will receive $25 off of your $50 purchase at Coldwater Creek. Just use the coupon code: FB2550 online, in stores or by phone.

Become a fan of Panda Express on Facebook and then print a coupon for a free single entree of Honey Walnut Shrimp on Wednesday, March 10.

It's hard to come by gas coupons but here is one that you will want to print! Go here
to print a coupon to save $2 off a $10 gas purchase at Murphy USA.
These are located at Walmart stores! This offer expires 03/16/10.

MURPHY USA E-NEWSLETTER
offers.murphyusa.com
Gas Coupons?! In the month of January, we had a pretty nice gas coupon. And from what we heard from all of you, you wanted to see more of the same from us! It can never be said that Murphy USA is not ...

Become fan of SunChips on FB and you will get a coupon for FREE Sunchips! (Offer is only for the first 100,000, so hurry)!

The North Face is offering a $10 Gift Certificate when you sign up for mobile text alerts. Keep in mind that text messaging rates will apply.

Value Mags is offering a free 10-issue digital subscription to Garden Design Magazine. These offers never last long so sign up now if your interested!

Free Offer for Garden Design Digital
www.valuemags.com
Enjoy 10 digital issues to Garden Design. No strings attached. You'll never receive a bill.Garden Design is a lifestyle magazine designed for the upscale, design-conscious reader who is passionate about gardening and landscape design. ...

www.lorealparisusa.com for FREE samples and coupons

Become a Ruby Tuesday Fan on Facebook and get a printable coupon for a Free appetizer with a purchase of $10 or more!

Nescafe is offering a new sample of their Tasters Choice stick packs. All you need to do is become a fan and then click on the Nescafe Samples tab to register.

Pureology is offering 2 samples and you get to choose your favorite. Go here and choose from their SuperSmooth RelaxingSerum or SuperSmooth SmoothingCream! *They will select winners randomly for the free samples.
Pureology Giveaways
www.pureology.com

Kroger's website has a new Instant Win Game called Hit the Hoops! Basically, you shoot the basketball for a chance to win prizes, coupons or a $5.00 credit to your shoppers card!

Taste of Home has drastically marked down their cookbooks to clear out the warehouse! We're talking $5 a cookbook! I plan on buying a fair amount and stock up for back up gifts (yes even for Christmas)! Don't wait though, these
go fast! Email $5 Cookbook Special From Shop Taste of home | Shop Taste of Home
www.shoptasteofhome.com $5 Cookbooks for our special customers

become a fan of Skittles on Facebook. After doing so, click on the “Coupon the Rainbow” tab and fill out the form to print a coupon valid for a FREE Skittles single serve product with the purchase of one!

Find out how restaurants across the country stack up, based on reviews and ratings from people who've eaten there.
www.yelp.com

Thanks so much Jennifer for all of your work in finding this information and passing it along. You are amazing!!

Thanks for listening and good luck to everyone!!
Sheryl

Discount at Gap while they help the environment

2010-03-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

Do you have old jeans that you don't want anymore. Now is a great time to pay it forward and get a little something in return. Starting tomorrow through the 14th, you can bring in your old denim (any brand) to Gap and receive a 30% discount off a new pair. If you use your Gap store card, you’ll get 35% off!

Where to find Volunteer Work

2010-03-02T12:06:00.001-08:00

Hands On Network is the company that is currently working with Disney in the "Give A Day, Get A Day" program. Now you can go through www.disney.com to find something and sign up for a free ticket to Disney, or you can just go to the Hands On Network website and find something.

www.handsonnetwork.org

Put in your zip code and you can find tons of events and places to volunteer. Help someone out today and sign up!

Thanks for listening!
Sheryl

2010-03-01T05:44:00.001-08:00

Donate your magazines, newspapers, etc to nursing homes or hospitals.

Thanks for listening!!

Half Off EVERYTHING!!

2010-02-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

Over the last few months I have been writing about Helping Others and encouraging YOU to Make A Difference. Today, I am going to Help YOU! I have been introduced to this website www.halfoffdepot.com. It is such a great site and you can get 1/2 off on EVERYTHING!! We are talking books, tickets, even if you want to ride in a real racecar! Below I have posted how to find your goodies but it is easy as pie (which you could probably get 1/2 off as well). ENJOY!!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Here's how Half Off Depot works, in two easy steps:

1. You go to HalfOffDepot.com, select your city, and pick out gift certificates to your favorite businesses. You then purchase these gift certificates from us for half their face value.

2. Once your certificates arrive in the mail, you take each gift certificate to the business that issued it, and use the full value of your gift certificate (twicewhat you paid for it) toward your purchase there.

Seriously, that's all there is to it. Whatever you spent at HalfOffDepot.com, you will redeem twofold at the businesses you've selected. And you can expect to be treated as a first-class citizen, because the businesses aren't giving you anything for free — the other half of your gift certificate has already been paid for by our publishing partners. All that makes you is a smart shopper!

Hospital Volunteer Work

2010-02-25T10:35:00.000-08:00

Helping Others at a local hospital is a great opportunity! Not only are you Making A Difference, and gaining personal satisfaction, you are contributing to the community. You can also learn new skills and make new contacts. A few things that hospitals need help with are:

* Support staff in the caring of babies

* Taking photos of newborns

* Working in the gift shop

* Delivering flowers

* Transporting/escorting patients/help with wayfindng

* Visiting and cheering patients

* Assisting and supporting patient families

* Helping at the information desk

Go on to your local hospitals website and find out what they are looking for. There is always rooms for more people to help.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Help Tide Help Others

2010-02-22T16:05:00.000-08:00

I saw a commercial today about Tide (the detergent). During the month of February, Tide is taking the money from the sales of their vintage t-shirts and donating to Haiti. Not only are they taking the sales, they are matching all sales up to 250,000!!!

www.tide.com

The United Way is Helping Others and Making A Difference

2010-02-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

Not only does the NFL give their time and volunteer with The United Way but you can too!! Read the information below and click on the link to put in your zip code to find out what needs to be done around your area!

http://national.unitedway.org/volunteer/

Volunteer Motivation and Motivating Volunteers

Earthquake in Haiti. Hurricane Katrina. When human suffering and widespread destruction are highly visible, caring people are motivated to act…to actually go and help or to send or raise money, supplies, and other support for those in need and working on the ground to bring relief.

But what motivates volunteers to serve our communities in equally important ways—to tutor a child, to work a shift at the food bank, or to advise a low-income family on their options with Earned Income Tax Credit? Volunteer motivation has been studied* extensively. Many of the top reasons why people volunteer will be familiar to United Ways.

And three reasons why people continue to volunteer?

· They were ASKED!—A number of studies consistently conclude that a majority of people will volunteer—if simply asked. This is consistent throughout the world. The best way to recruit volunteers is to ask them—intentionally, deliberately. People want to "help out" if they can and if there are ways for them to be effectively engaged.

· They make a difference—People want to make a difference in the lives of others or in the community. Opportunities with impact are critical.

· They enjoyed the experience—Volunteering provides a variety of personal benefits and satisfaction to the volunteer, in addition to the benefits received by charities and society as a whole. People are more likely to volunteer for a second time if their first experience was satisfying.

Volunteer recognition programs, like United Way Chittenden County's Hometown Hero of the Week and Month are a great way to thank and motivate volunteers in a very public way.

Wondering how to not motivate a volunteer? Josh Pedersen, United Way of Northern Utah, offers these humorous but useful tips in How to Lose a Volunteer in 10 Days:

· Don't ask —Failing to ask appropriately is the first step in losing potential volunteers

· Give 'em Sunglasses—Blinding your volunteers to their role in your organization will certainly limit their engagement with your organization

· Be a Terrible Trivian—Giving your volunteers meaningless and trivial tasks will help them find substantial work elsewhere.

Read seven more ways to lose a volunteer, and the sequel!

*Studies include Volunteer Functions Inventory by Clary, et al;, Theory of Needs, McClelland; 3 Categories of Motivation, Fitch; Six Aspects of Adult Motivation, Wlodkowski; Volunteer Motivation Inventory, Esmond & Dunlop.

Volunteering and Haiti

Since the earthquake rocked Haiti, people around the world are asking to volunteer their time. Because of conditions on the ground, United Way is not currently sending volunteers to Haiti.

If you have prior disaster relief experience, have fluency in Creole and have expertise in technical fields such as medicine, communications logistics, water/sanitation engineering, we encourage you to register with the Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI.org) volunteer database.

As Haitians enter the United States as repatriates, refugees, and adoptees, United Way will work to provide for immediate needs such as emergency shelter, food and clothing, as well as services such as emergency health care and family reunification.

Longer-term support includes transitioning refugees from emergency shelters into appropriate housing and establishing a system of social services to help refugees settle in the community of their choice and achieve self-sufficiency. Please use the opportunity finder below or contact your local United Way directly to find out about these types of volunteer opportunities.

Help Others by Donating Blood

2010-02-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

Give Blood

To learn more about blood donation opportunities, visit www.redcrossblood.org/ or
call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).

Every minute of every day, someone needs blood. That blood can only come from a volunteer donor, a person like you who makes the choice to donate. There is no substitute for your donation.

When you make a blood donation, you join a very select group. Currently only 3 out of every 100 people in America donate blood.

From its beginning, the American Red Cross has formed a community of service, of generous, strong and decent people bound by beliefs beyond themselves. The American Red Cross blood donor embodies this principle. Please join us in our mission to maintain a safe and stable blood supply by making your appointment to donate blood today.

To find out where you can donate, visit www.redcrossblood.org/ or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).

Want to know if you're able to give blood? Review the donor eligibility guidelines.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

	Be in generally good health and feeling well.
	Be at least 17 years of age; upper age 60 (420d*).
	Weigh at least 110 pounds (45 kg).
	Pulse: 80 to 100 beats/min and regular.
	Temperature: Should not exceed 99.5 (37.5c).
	Blood Pressure: acceptable range is 160/90 to 110/60.
	Skin: the venipuncture site should be free of any lesion or scar of needle pricks indicative of addiction to narcotics or frequent Blood donation (as in the case of professional Blood donors).

DONATION FREQUENCY (may vary)

	Whole Blood donors may donate every 56 days.
	Plasma donors may donate twice a week (max. every 48 hours.)
	Platelet donors may donate a maximum of 24 times per year.
	Other specialized donations are subject to other rules.

DO NOT DONATE BLOOD IF:

	You have ever tested positive for HIV,
	You have ever injected yourself with drugs or other substances not prescribed by a physician,
	You are a man and have had sex with another man, even once,
	You have hemophilia or another Blood clotting disorder and received clotting factor concentrate,
	You have engaged in sex for drugs or money since 1977,
	You have lived in western Europe since 1980,
	You have been held in a correctional facility (including jails, prisons and/or detention centers) for more than 72 hours in the last 12 months,
	You were born in, lived in or had sex with anyone who lived in, or received Blood products in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Niger or Nigeria since 1977 (this list changes frequently; updates are very important) or,
	You are, or have been a sexual contact of someone in the above list. NOTE: There is a special watch for potential donors who have visited or lived in England/United Kingdom from 1980 to 1999, and those who have lived and/or worked in Western Europe since 1980.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

	Accident & Injury: can donate if otherwise healthy
	Aids: can not donate
	Allergies: can donate if there is no infection present and there is no treatment ongoing
	Anemia: defer donation until no symptoms exist
	Arthritis: can donate if mild and not on medication
	Asthma: those with severe asthma requiring regular treatment can not donate; can donate ifthere are no symptoms evident
	Babesiosis: can not donate
	Blood disorders or bleeding tendencies: can not donate
	Blood Pressure: acceptable range is 160/90 to 110/60. (see medication section below for medication restrictions.)
	Brain or spinal surgery that required a transplant of brain covering (dura mater): can not donate
	Bronchitis: defer donation until four weeks or after recovery
	CJD: When a Blood relative has been diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), or there is an increased family risk of CJD; can not donate
	Cancer: Basal cell, squamous cell skin cancers and keratosis; can not donate until removed and healed. Melanoma; can not donate. Malignant tumors; can donate five years after removal of early stage contained solid tumor, no chemotherapy, and in remission
	Chicken Pox: defer donation until four weeks after recovery
	Chlamydia: like all other venereal diseases; a minimum of a one year deferral is required
	Colds, fever, flu, sore throat: can not donate until symptoms (sore throat, cough, respiratory infection, headache) are completely gone
	Cold Sore, Fever Blister, Canker Sore: can donate
	Colitis: can not donate
	Colostomy: can not donate
	Dementia: can not donate
	Dengue: defer donation until four weeks after recovery
	Dermatitis: can donate if mild; defer donation if severe
	Diabetes: can donate if treatment is by diet control and condition is stable; defer donation if on medication
	Diarrhea: defer donation until three weeks after recovery
	Eczema: can donate if mild. defer donation if severe
	Emphysema: can not donate
	Filariasis: can not donate
	Food Poisoning: defer donation for one week after full recovery
	Gastroenteritis: defer donation for one week after full recovery
	Gall Stone: can donate if not on medication
	Gonorrhea/Syphilis: defer donation for one year after complete recovery
	Gout: can not donate
	Heart attack: can donate if greater than one year since, and no symptoms present, the attending Blood authority physician must carefully evaluate
	Heart surgery, Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) or angioplasty: can donate one year after surgery, if no history of heart attack, and the donor is on no medication for the heart (aspirin is okay)
	Hemochromatosis: can not donate
	Hepatitis: Hepatitis or undiagnosed jaundice after age ten; can not donate. Positive hepatitis test: can not donate. Can donate if the history of hepatitis is pertaining to mononucleosis or CMV infection
	Herpes (genital): can donate four weeks after lesions completely clear
	Leprosy: can not donate
	Malaria; had Malaria in last three years: defer donation for three years after full recovery (also see Travel and Residency Restrictions below)
	Pregnancy and Miscarriage: can donate after six weeks of full term normal delivery. Can donate six weeks after termination in third trimester. First or second trimester miscarriage can donate after stable
	Prostate: can not donate
	Sexually transmitted diseases - Genital herpes: can not donate until all lesions are completely clear
	Sickle Cell Trait: can not donate
	Seizures in the last five Years: can not donate
	Spondylosis: can donate if feeling well and not under any treatment at all
	Strokes: can not donate
	Surgery (all): can donate after healed and released from physician care.
	Syphilis: see Gonorrhea
	Thyroid: for Hypothyroid, can donate if feeling well and euthyroid on thyroxine for six months. For Hyperthyroid: can not donate until euthyroid for six months.
	Tuberculosis: can not donate until two years after complete cure
	Viral Infection: can donate after cure and off treatment
	Worms: can donate after complete cure

MEDICATION GUIDELINES

	Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol): may be taken in normal moderate doses before any Blood donation
	Accutane: four-week deferral

	Allergy medication: can donate
	Antibiotics: 72-hour deferral after infection is healed
	Anti-inflammatory drugs (Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin and Naprosyn): may not be taken within 24 hours before a platelet donation (some other rules may apply)
	Aspirin-containing products or Feldene and Lodine XL: may not donate within 36 hours before platelet donation
	Birth control pills: can donate
	Blood pressure medication: can donate under present FDA and American Red Cross standards in force
	Depression medication: can donate
	Diabetic medication - Injected bovine (beef) insulin since 1980; can not donate
	Diet pills: can donate
	Diuretics: can donate
	Female hormone pills: can donate
	Any human pituitary-derived hormone (i.e. growth hormone): can not donate
	Soriatane (Acitretin): three-year deferral
	Tegison (used to treat a severe skin disorder): can not donate if ever taken
	Thyroid medication: can donate if stabilized

IMMUNIZATION EXCLUSIONS

	Polio, mumps, smallpox: two-week or more deferral
	Rubella or Rubeola (types of measles): four week deferral
	Tetanus, diphtheria, flu, Hepatitis B: can not donate until any reaction is over

OTHER POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS

	Acupuncture: one-year deferral
	Alcohol: defer donation if consumed in last 12 hours
	Body piercing: one-year deferral
	Cocaine: taking through the nose (snorting); one-year deferral minimum, local Blood authority will prevail
	Dental work - Cleaning and fillings: one-day deferral; Root canal: three-day deferral after work is complete
	Ear piercing: can donate if the piercing was performed in a doctor’s office (with written verification) otherwise, one-year deferral
	Electrolysis: defer donation for one year
	Hepatitis exposure: one-year deferral
	Menstruation: can donate
	Rape: one-year deferral
	Smoker: can donate
	Tattoo in the last 12 months: one-year deferral
	Transfusion: defer donation by one year if undergone transfusion with Blood products. Candonate if undergone autologous transfusion only

TRAVEL and RESIDENCY OUTSIDE of the UNITED STATES

	England/United Kingdom - visited or lived in from 1980 to 1999: deferred indefinitely (this standard varies between United States FDA and The American Red Cross and the American Association of Blood Banks.
	Western Europe - visited or lived in since 1980 deferred indefinitely
	Born in, lived in or had sex with anyone who lived in, or received Blood products in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Niger or Nigeria since 1977 (this list changes frequently; updates are very important): deferral indefinitely.
	Lived or traveled in an area where Malaria is prevalent (Central America and South America, etc.): three-year deferral,
	Other international travelers: different restrictions apply as precaution against mad cow disease, depending on what blood bank and region

For up-to-date information or opinions about American Red Cross rules about Blood donor deferrals, call 1-800-448-3543.

IMPORTANT 2010 Census Information

2010-02-16T09:13:00.001-08:00

WARNING: 2010 Census Cautions from the Better Business Bureau

Be Cautious About Giving Info to Census Workers by Susan Johnson

With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race, and other relevant data.

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.

REMEMBER, NO MATTER WHAT THEY ASK, YOU REALLY ONLY NEED TO TELL THEM HOW MANY PEOPLE LIVE AT YOUR ADDRESS.

While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, YOU DON'T HAVE TO ANSWER ANYTHING AT ALL ABOUT YOUR FINANCIAL SITUATION. The Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers, nor will employees solicit donations. Any one asking for that information is NOT with the Census Bureau.

AND REMEMBER, THE CENSUS BUREAU HAS DECIDED NOT TO WORK WITH ACORN ON GATHERING THIS INFORMATION.. No Acorn worker should approach you saying he/she is with the Census Bureau.

Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census.

Never click on a link or open any attachments in an Email that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org http://www.bbb.org.

Cut 6 pack plastic rings

2010-02-15T16:12:00.000-08:00

Do you know where your plastic goes? To the ocean. Let's put two and two together. You know those plastic "rings" that hold a 6 pack together? When they are thrown away (even though they should be recycled), they go out to the ocean and when fish / dolphins are swimming around, the "rings" get caught around their noses. The dolphins cannot break free, cannot open their mouths to eat, or if the "rings" get to tight, can stop their breathing and they die.

After taking off the "rings" from the 6 pack of soda, beer, ginger ale, etc make sure you cut them apart. Cut the "rings" even if you are going to recycle. Don't take chances.

I know it's cliche, but "Save The Dolphins".

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Donate clothing

2010-02-13T11:32:00.001-08:00

Losing weight because of your New Year's Resolution? Are your kids growing out of their clothes? There are shelters & orphanages who are more than happy to take them!!! Donate them! Not only are you Helping Others, but you get a tax deduction as well.

CLOTHING DONATION: GET A TAX DEDUCTION FOR CLOTHES THAT DON'T FIT ANYMORE

by Deborah Mitchell

Clothing donations are needed by many of the 600,000 homeless families in the United States. But the need doesn't end there: more than 28 million children living in low-income families and their parents could also benefit from donated clothes.

Clothing donations to qualified charitable organizations are tax deductible. For tax deduction purposes, The Salvation Army andGoodwill Industries publish guidelines for the valuation of donated items, including clothing and shoes.

Clothing-donation needs include: school clothes, coats and other cold-weather accessories, professional clothing for employment interviews, and shoes, which wear out quickly and must be replaced often, especially among growing children.

Donated clothes are critical for mothers and young children who must flee their homes because of domestic violence or abuse. Often these women and children leave under dangerous circumstances with only the clothes on their backs.

Clothes donations are also especially needed by homeless veterans. Up to 40 percent of homeless adults are veterans, with more joining their ranks from the Iraqi and Afghanistan wars.

Clothing donations should be clean, undamaged, and reasonably wrinkle-free. Clothing can be folded and packed in sturdy boxes or bags; avoid hangers. Items that come in pairs (shoes, gloves, socks) should be kept together (shoe laces can be tied together, gloves and socks can be stuffed inside each other). Pockets should be emptied and any belts should be securely fastened to their appropriate items.

The Salvation Army, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart will pick up clothing, shoes, and household items from most locations in the United States. If you don't have a lot of items, you may want to ask friends, neighbors, and coworkers if they would like to make a clothing and shoe donation as well. The Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries both have drop-off locations for your clothing donations and other items. Some Big Brother Big Sister facilities accept donated clothing and shoes as well. (Click "find my local agency" to see if the one near you accepts donations.)
Check with schools and day care centers in your area. Many of these facilities have family centers that collect clothing and shoes for students who are in need.
If you live or work in an area where you have access to homeless people, you can offer clothing and shoes to them personally.
Soles4Souls is a nonprofit that collects gently used shoes for children and adults in need.
If you have clothing suitable for women who have special needs, see Hand-Me-Down Used Clothing for Women.

Your clothing donation can make a big difference in the lives of children and adults in need. For tax purposes, you should keep a list of the clothing you donate. Donation centers usually give you a tax receipt, but if you mail your clothing or shoe donation to a charity, also send a self-addressed, stamped envelope so it can send you a receipt. Shipping costs are tax deductible as well.

Proper Disposal of Expired Medication

2010-02-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

Below I have posted a link of an article about expired medication. There are many reasons to properly dispose of them. Expired medication should NOT be flushed down the toilet, it is bad for the water and the animals in it. Expired medication should NOT be thrown away, there is potential of it getting in the wrong hands.

Click the link or copy & paste for more information.

http://www.wisegeek.com/how-do-i-dispose-of-expired-medicine.htm

Reduce unwanted catalogs

2010-02-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Control your mail preferences and simplify your life. Catalog Choice is a free service that lets you choose which catalogs you no longer wish to receive. Reduce the amount of unsolicited mail in your mailbox. You decide what gets in! Reduce your mailbox clutter, while helping save natural resources.

www.catalogchoice.org

Pop (Soda) Tab Collection for $$$

2010-02-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

At Ronald McDonald House, a pull tab from a soda can can make a world of difference. Read on and start saving those tabs! It is so easy to Help Others and Make A Difference!

Collecting pop tabs is a great way to teach kids about philanthropy and the importance of recycling, and raise funds to help children and their families at the same time. Some of our Chapters raise thousands of dollars with their pop tab collections.

Why?

Ronald McDonald Houses collect pop tabs instead of entire aluminum cans because the tabs are pure high-quality aluminum, unlike cans, which consist of aluminum and other alloys. Tabs are also easier to store than whole cans.

Where?

If your local Ronald McDonald House participates in the program, it’s likely cardboard collection containers in the shape of a house have been distributed to schools, community and civic groups and other organizations in your area. Collect pop tabs to drop off at one of these areas, or contact your local House about getting a collection container that you can be responsible for filling through one of your own groups.

How much?

After the tabs are collected, the local RMHC Chapter brings the collection to local recycling centers, where they are weighed to determine their value (values can vary significantly). The recycling center then sends the local RMHC Chapter a check for the total value.

Write A Letter To The Person At The Top

2010-02-08T06:16:00.000-08:00

Last year I began a letter to the CEO and founder/creator of The Cheesecake Factory. I literally wrote 3 lines of it and then got distracted. I put it in my 'drafts folder' in my email and had intended on returning to it. Twelve months later... I did! I wrote to him and told him my concern for the environment and some things that The Cheesecake Factory could be doing to help out. Recycling, changing the type of light bulbs used, etc. I sent it off. A week later, the CEO and founder/creator of The Cheesecake Factory contacted me. He would like to talk to me on the phone and discuss things with me that The Cheesecake Factory has in progress to help the environment and things that could be done in the future. I did it. I took something that seemed so little and it made a difference! I am making a difference and am excited about it!!

WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR THAT INSPIRES ACTION

by Ann Mason

Writing letters to the editor can be an effective way of sharing your opinion and inspiring others to take positive action on issues that are of concern to you.

Political leaders and other policy makers rely upon the editorials in newspapers to gauge the views of their constituents. The philanthropic actions of civic organizations are often inspired by issues facing the community that were initially inspired by letters to the editor.

A letter to the editor, an op-ed piece, or a posting to a blog website may inspire everyday citizens to take action that truly makes a difference, and it even may inspire a reporter to pursue the issue further with a more in-depth article focusing on your issue.

Have you ever heard someone tell a story or read something that immediately inspired you to take action? Maybe you heard about a family who lost all of their possessions in a fire, or you read about the imminent cancellation of a valuable community program due to funding cuts. Without the effort of another person bringing these issues to your attention, you never would have been in a position to help. Writing a letter to the editor is a way that you, too, can inspire others to take action and make a difference in countless areas. So, when you read about an issue that moves you, or see a story on television that makes you want to get involved, don't just sit there. Writing a letter to the editor gives you a chance to inspire action in people whom you will probably never meet.

The key to getting your message out is to write a letter that has a chance to be published. Newspapers and other media receive many more letters than they have room to publish. So, ensure that your letter is concise, makes one simple point or deals with one basic issue, and follows the policies set forth by the media outlet. That way, you strengthen your chances of seeing your letter in print and of inspiring others to take action on your issue.

Step 1: Choose an issue. The newspaper is filled each day with potential topics for your letter. Just pick something that moves you to share your opinion and your call-to-action with an audience.
Step 2: Choose an outlet for your editorial. Newspapers are the traditional recipients of letters to the editor. Lists of newspapers all over the world and links to their websites can be found at RefDesk.com and the Internet Public Library. You also might consider sending your letter to a blog, where people discuss their views on issues, or to television and radio news programs that may not read your letter on the air but may be inspired to take action of their own and follow-up with a more in-depth story on your issue.
Step 3: Write your letter. Don't worry about making it perfect. You won't be receiving a grade from your high school English teacher. Just try to keep it brief (150-200 words) and to the point. You might want to read some sample letters to the editor to get a feel for the standard format. Be sure to run spelling and grammar checks.
Step 4: Proofread your letter, but not immediately after writing it. Set the letter aside for a while and come back to look it over with fresh eyes. When you read it, consider the reader. Does your letter communicate your point clearly? Do your words inspire action? If you're not sure, ask a friend or family member to read your editorial before you send it.
Step 5: Send your letter to the editor. You can do this by email, fax or standard mail. Check with the recipient organization on the preferred method. If you are sending a letter to a newspaper, be sure to sign your letter and provide your name printed clearly along with your address and telephone number. Newspapers will not publish anonymous letters, and although the newspaper will not share your address and phone number with its readers, someone from the paper may call you to confirm your identity.

Don't worry if your letter does not get published. Someone read it. What matters most is that you took the time to express yourself, and that is a powerful thing. Write another when your conscience challenges you to act.

Cell Phone Recycling

2010-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

CELL PHONE RECYCLING: DONATE YOUR OLD MOBILE PHONE

by Michelle Sawyer

Discarded cell phones account for nearly 65,000 tons of toxic waste each year.Cell phone recycling is critical because each cell phone can pollute up to 132,000 liters of water.

More than 500 million unwanted cell phones are either awaiting disposal in the home, or seeping hazardous lead, mercury, cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and arsenic into the environment. And with new features available every year, a cell phone's average life is now less than 18 months, adding more than 125 million cell phones (and their batteries) to our landfills each year — or 2 million toxic mobile phones dumped each week. Because the United States has yet to establish federal regulations requiring mobile phone recycling, donating or recycling cell phones is at less than 1 percent.

The good news is that mobile phone manufacturers have recognized the need for cell phone recycling, stepping up their efforts to stop this enormous threat to the environment. All five national mobile phone carriers have instigated a mobile phone recycling take-back plan, accepting unwanted cell phones at any of their retail locations nationwide.

Even without a wireless service plan, donated cell phones are reusable, because any working mobile phone can dial a 911 call center (an FCC requirement). As a result, recycled cell phones can be used as emergency lifelines for:

senior centers
senior citizens living alone, who are especially vulnerable to accidents
senior citizens with disabilities and limited incomes, who are especially vulnerable to elder abuse (physical abuse, assault, exploitation, or neglect.)

Recycled cell phones are also an important emergency link for women's shelters. Donated cell phones could save a life by enabling victims of domestic violence with instant access to emergency services.

Before donating your mobile phone, erase any stored information, including your contact list, text messages, and listings of incoming/outgoing numbers. Most cell phones use a "master reset" to delete information quickly and easily. Also, verify that your account has been cancelled with your service provider.

Cell Phone Recycling

Cell phones that are too old to be refurbished or reused should go to a recycling center to keep poisonous mercury, lead and other dangerous toxins from harming the environment. Batteries, plastics, and other components will be disposed of according to EPA guidelines.

Stores such as Radio Shack, Best Buy, Office Depot and Staples offer mobile phone recycling centers, where you can simply toss your unwanted mobile phone into their in-store "recycling bin."

Exchanging your old cell phone when you upgrade is the easiest way to recycle, but if you have a mobile phone or two in a drawer at home, Call 2 Recycle can give you the location of your nearest cell phone recycling center.

Cell Phone Donation

Using a padded envelope, you can mail your unwanted cell phone to The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which collects and distributes working cell phones to victims of domestic violence so that they may call 911 for help in emergencies.

Phones For Life gives seniors a lifeline by providing them with a 911-capable working mobile phone, enabling them to call for emergency help should they suffer an accident or emergency. Their drop-off locations are in a number of states, or you can donate your mobile phone by mail.

Donate A Phone and Call to Collect have partnered to accept cell phones at convenient locations throughout your state; refurbishing and distributing the cell phones to domestic violence shelters in need.

More information about cell phone recycling and donation is available from The Recycling Alliance, Charitable Recycling, Collective Good and Wireless Recycling.

No More Plastic Bags!!

2010-02-03T06:36:00.000-08:00

PLASTIC BAGS? BRING CANVAS SHOPPING BAGS INSTEAD

by Deborah Mitchell

Plastic bags begin their lives as natural gas or other petrochemical substances, which are finite, polluting, and increasingly expensive resources.

The next time a grocery clerk asks, "Are plastic bags okay?" why not reply, "I'll use my canvas shopping bags instead, thank you."

"Paper or plastic?" has become as commonplace and casual as "Have a nice day." But there's nothing casual about the use of plastic bags and paper bags for groceries in America. According to Worldwatch Institute, factories around the world manufactured 4 to 5 trillion plastic bags per year. Although many of these bags are recyclable, each year Americans return only 0.6 percent of the 100 billion plastic bags they use and toss the rest.

Are paper bags better? Let's compare paper and plastic. Plastic bag production requires 40 percent less energy, results in 80 percent less solid and 94 percent less waterborne wastes, and generates 70 percent less air pollution than the manufacture of paper bags. Plastic bags also take up less room in landfills.

But many plastic bags are littered or fly away, where they clog up sewers and waterways, become entangled in vegetation and fences, and get caught in the throats of animals. Plastic bags are found in the stomachs of sea turtles and on the shores of remote islands. Once plastic bags are in the environment - whether in a landfill or polluting a lake - it can take hundreds of years for them to decompose, and they contribute toxins to the soil and water as they do.

And paper bags? Although they are more likely to be recycled (about 10 to 15 percent), the environmental impact is staggering. Beyond enormous energy costs, 14 million trees in 1999 alone were cut down to manufacture the 10 billion paper grocery bags used by Americans.

On the other hand, canvas bags are strong and reliable, don't tip over, hold more than plastic bags, and are good for the environment. Take them shopping today!

Break the plastic shopping bag habit. First, get several sturdy canvas or cloth shopping bags that you can take with you to the grocery store. Here are a few sources:

Look around the house. Many people have canvas and cloth tote bags stashed away, forgotten, in the back of a closet.
Canvas tote bags are often offered as free gifts when you join a club, enroll in a program, or donate to an organization. Ask for a canvas tote for your birthday, Mother's Day, Christmas, or other holiday.
Check out thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets.
Ask family, friends, and coworkers if they have any extra canvas bags they don't need. Tell them about your plans, and they may want to join you in making a difference!

Next, keep canvas bags in your car and, if you have a few extra, some by the front door or the door to the garage. After you use the bags for groceries, fold them and place them near the door so you can pick them up on your way out. It's also a good idea to keep a few extra canvas bags in the trunk. Never leave home without them!

Here's a way to teach young children the value of recycling too: if your grocery store offers cents back for each canvas bag used, let your children collect the pennies and nickels you get back. It pays to protect the planet.

Send Card to Hospitalized Child

2010-02-02T16:17:00.000-08:00

SEND A GET WELL SOON CARD TO A HOSPITALIZED CHILD

by Abigail Beal

Get Well Soon Cards help hospitalized children feel less isolated and lonely.

When a seriously ill child remains hospitalized for months, family visits can become less frequent, particularly when the child is transferred to a specialized hospital far from the parents' home. These parents may have other children to care for, and jobs they must keep to maintain medical insurance or to pay uncovered medical bills.

As a result, children requiring long-term care may get most of their human contact during routine – and often impersonal – treatment from doctors and nurses. While these professionals help with the child's physical pain, there is usually little time to deal with the emotional pain of isolation, confusion, and homesickness.

Sending Get Well Soon Cards to hospitalized children is a wonderful way to help cheer them. This contact, and message of caring, can be the highlight of a hospitalized child's day.

Light-hearted, humorous cards are well-received. If laughter is indeed the best medicine, then your Get Well Soon Card can be a big help.

Find a Recipient:
There are several organizations who feature eager recipients of Get Well Soon Cards:
Each of these websites provides helpful guidelines for communicating with children receiving long-term hospital care.
Carefully Review the Child's Biography:
- Consider the recipient's physical limitations (e.g., do not send musical cards to a deaf child).
- Discover interests that you might be able to incorporate into your card (e.g., favorite cartoon characters).
Select a Card:
Mindful that some chronically ill children may never recover, your card should aim to cheer-up the child without saying "get well soon" directly. Instead, "Thinking of You" and "Friendship" cards convey the spirit of "get well soon" without raising false hope in children who may never get better.
Craft Your Message:
Keep your message light and cheerful. Referring to the child's interests will make him or her feel special. Jokes are always fun for children. There are many appropriate children's jokes on Aha Jokes.
If you don't want to create your own message, you could follow this sample message to enclose in your card:
Hello (Child's First Name)!
I just wanted to say hello from [City and State]. I am wishing you a day full of great big smiles and bright blue skies. I would like to share a Knock Knock joke with you:
Knock Knock
Who's there?
Aardvark!
Aardvark who?
Aardvark a hundred miles for one of your smiles!
I hope you thought this was funny; I sure did!
Have a super day!
Sincerely yours,
[First Name Last Name]
Send Your Card Via USPS Postal Mail:
All Get Well Soon Cards must be sent through postal mail (usually to P.O. boxes), since none of the children accept Get Well Soon e-Cards.

Note: Most families will not respond to your Get Well Soon Card. While they appreciate your good wishes, most families are simply too busy to respond. Always include your contact information, however, when sending a Get Well Soon Card, so that the child's family knows from whom the card was sent.

Stop Junk Mail

2010-02-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

REMOVE YOURSELF FROM JUNK MAIL LISTS

by Deborah Mitchell — Senior Editor, Environmental Protection

Junk mail is more than a nuisance: unsolicited mail has a tremendous negative impact on the environment. At least 100 million trees are destroyed each year to produce junk mail, and 28 billion gallons of water are used to produce the paper. All of these resources are wasted to produce items many people don't even look at: about half of all junk mail is thrown out unopened or unread, and the rate of response to junk mail is less than 2 percent. The result is that more than 4 million tons of paper is wasted every year, according to the Native Forest Network (now known as the WildWest Institute).

Junk mail also has a direct negative economic impact as well. An estimated $320 million of local taxes are used to dispose of junk mail annually, and transportation of junk mail costs about $550 million per year, not to mention the air pollution generated during transport.

You can fight back. Read on to learn about effective ways to reduce and even eliminate junk mail in 15 minutes or less!

Register to have your name removed from mailing lists. There are two main resources you can access to accomplish this. One is a free service called the National Do Not Mail List, offered by DirectMail.com, which makes the list available to mailing list owners and users for one reason only: so they can remove (or add) your name to their lists based on your stated preferences. When you complete the online National Do Not Mail List form, you can indicate if there are any types of mailings you would like to receive (a list is provided). You can choose as many or as few—or none—as you want. DirectMail.com will contact you every six months via e-mail so you can review and update your preferences. The second service is the Mail Preference Service, which historically was free but which now charges $1. You can register online or by regular mail. Your request is good for five years, and you cannot state preferences. (Note: Neither DirectMail.com nor the Mail Preference Service can guarantee that your name will be removed from ALL mailing lists on which you appear. Therefore you may want to try some of the suggestions stated below as well.)
When you order something from a catalog, your name and address is likely given to Abacus, an alliance of mostly catalog and publishing companies. To have your information removed from Abacus, contact them with your name (including any middle initial), current address, and previous address if you moved recently. Abacus can be reached either via e-mail (optout@abacus-us.com) or by mail: Abacus, Inc., PO Box 1478, Broomfield CO 80038.
To stop sexually oriented advertising, contact your local post office and ask for Form 2150 to stop mail from a particular company, or Form 1500.
Whenever you subscribe to a magazine, join a group, or make a donation and supply them with your name and address, ask that they not rent your name to other companies. Your request may be ignored, so it is best to contact them a few weeks later and make the request again.
To be removed from the mailing list of major sweepstakes mailers, contact the following: Publishers Clearinghouse, by phone: (800-645-9242) or by mail: Consumer & Privacy Affairs, Publishers Clearinghouse, 382 Channel Drive, Port Washington NY 11050; or by e-mail:privacychoices@pchmail.com. And Readers Digest Sweepstakes, phone (800-310-6261) or by mail: Reader's Digest, PO Box 50005, Prescott AZ 86301-5005.
Contact your banks and credit card companies and tell them not to release your name, address, social security number, e-mail address, or phone number to anyone for any type of marketing or promotional reasons.
If you move, do not fill out the permanent change of address (COA) form supplied by the post office. Permanent COA information is provided to third parties. Instead, complete the temporary (10 month) form and notify companies and others on your own. Address changes can be done easily by completing the change of address form found on the back of bills.
Don't mark your junk mail "return to sender" or return it in the postage-paid envelop and request to be removed from their mailing list. The fact that you responded, even in a negative way (and expect your request to be ignored), usually means your name and address will be used again by the company that purchased it. Instead, contact the company that mailed the items to you and ask to be removed from their list. If there is no phone number on the junk mail, you may find the company on the Internet. If no phone number is supplied, make your request via e-mail.
To eliminate handbills from being left in your door, put up a "no handbills" or "no soliciting" sign on your door.
To eliminate extra or redundant telephone books, contact the producer of the book (should be listed inside the front of the book) and ask to be removed from their list.
For catalogs that "slip through" and continue to be delivered even after you have contacted MPS and Abacus, here's an easy plan:

Choose a convenient place to collect your catalogs, such as in a basket next to the phone .
Whenever you have a spare few moments, select one or more catalogs, call the toll-free customer service number listed (usually on or near the order form), and ask to be removed from their mailing list.
Place the catalog in your recycle bin!
An optional fourth step is to help an elderly friend or neighbor reduce his or her junk mail by offering to do the same service for them.

For more information on how to eliminate junk mail and similar unwanted printed materials, visit thePrivacy Rights Clearninghouse.

Bicycle Rules of the Road

2010-01-31T16:44:00.000-08:00

As I continue to prepare for my bike ride, I am finding that people, including myself, are not very educated on bicycle road safety. Here are a few things that you should know.

* Bike riders are allowed to have 6 feet of space. What does this mean? It means that they ride in the lane with you.

* Bike riders are to use all turn lanes as vehicles do.

* Bike riders are to use arm signals when making turns.

* Bike riders are to obey all traffic signals.

Even if you are not a bike rider, it is important to be educated on what and where bicycles/bicyclists are allowed to be. Visit www.nhtsa.gov and go to Traffic Safety for more information.

Be safe and share the road.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Volunteer Match

2010-01-30T14:51:00.000-08:00

Did you know that there is a website that will match volunteers to their criteria listed? Simply go to www.volunteermatch.org, put in your information and hundreds of opportunities will come up for you volunteer at. It is amazing!

Tomorrow I start collecting shoes for Haiti victims. Did you know that children in Haiti cannot attend school without a pair of shoes? If you are interested in helping me in the cause, please feel free to ship your shoes to me or check out my last blog.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Soles 4 Souls

2010-01-25T09:57:00.000-08:00

Today I went into my DVR and began watching Extreme Home Makeover. Beside the fact that I cry every week when I watch that show, this week was especially touching for me. The mom Delores is one heck of a woman! I don't understand how people let their houses get like that but Delores was not only attempting to fix up her house but also other houses in the community. This is a woman who really cared about others just as much as herself and her family.

Delores grew up in Jamaica and had to walk 8 miles to school every day with no shoes. So this week on Extreme Home Makeover a group called Soles 4 Souls came in and basically what they do is collect shoes and send them around the world to those in need. I went to their website www.soles4souls.org and found out that they have donated over 7 million pairs of shoes to date. Also on the website you can find local stores in your area that participate, you can donate, fundraise and even volunteer to travel with them to hand shoes out!

It is amazing what we take for granted each and every day. Check out this site and see what you can do to help!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

More ways to HELP HAITI

2010-01-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

If you are interested in donating money to the victims, you can do so in several different ways:
1. Text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to the American Red Cross which is also aiding in the efforts.
2. Obviously if you are aware of any charities sending money to the victims, these would work as well.

Here is a long list of organizations participating in Haiti as of right now, so if you have the money to spare, please give what you can to help these people.http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/01/13/haiti.earthquake.how.to.help/index.html?hpt=T2

UPDATE: Actor Ben Stiller has just announced that ALL donations given through his charity StillerStrong (http://www.stillerstrong.org/) will go directly toward the disaster relief in Haiti. This is just another excellent way to show your support for the Haitian people.

IMPORTANT: If you are searching for relatives or friends who may have been in Haiti at the time of the earthquake, go to http://www.familylinks.icrc.org/WFL_HTI.NSF/DocIndex/locate_eng?opendocument. It is an excellent site that hopefully will reunite you with anyone that may be missing.

I would just like to take this chance to explain some things that I've been noticing in the wall posts. This event is in absolutely no way limited to just wearing red as a show of support. In fact, I would encourage EVERYONE to donate, no matter how much or how little they can manage. Obviously only wearing red is going to send no tangible help to the citizens of Haiti, but what it WILL do is draw more attention to the cause, hopefully ultimately resulting in greater donations to the disaster relief. Will wearing red solve this crisis? No. But directing a greater scope of attention to the situation is extremely important, and THAT is the core purpose of this event.

Ways to HELP HAITI

2010-01-15T06:15:00.000-08:00

While we all have to be careful not to give to the wrong group, we still want to be able to help out. During times of tragedy, some people see a "light" and take advantage of the situation. I have done research and here are some legit groups and ways to HELP HAITI.

* American Airlines is taking doctors and nurses to Haiti for FREE. Please call 212-697-9767

* Through the Red Cross you can text "HAITI" to "90999" to automatically donate $10

http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/13/1-million-in-donations-for-haiti-via-text-message/?ref=technology

* Donate for FREE each time you search the web

http://www.goodsearch.com/nonprofit/amer-haitian-bon-zami.aspx

* Send items to Haiti

http://www.ahbz.org/donate.php

* St. Louis Peeps

http://www.umocm.com/festival.htm

Thin Mints for Soldiers

2010-01-10T19:19:00.001-08:00

Another way to support the Girl Scouts in our lives and the Soldiers who are fighting for our lives. A friend of mine was in the Navy and she sent me this, "Operation Thin Mint is great as well. When I was in the Navy they sent a box of Girl Scout Cookies to every single person in our Battle Group (about 7000 people). It was one of the greatest day ever! I still remember savoring my box of Tagalongs. Here's the link...http://www.facebook.com/l/70484;www.sdgirlscouts.org/operation-thin-mint/

Let's do it and help them out!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Stock Food Shelves

2010-01-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Here is a really simple way to help and it only takes 5 seconds:

KARE 11 & Land O'Lakes are donating $1 for every person who clicks on their web site. Go to the website listed below and on the right side of the screen there is the green area where it says: You Click, We donate. It's that easy. Please pass to all of your friends.

1 in 8 Americans is struggling with hunger. You are already on the computer, so just do it!

We know that the food shelves are really hurting this year. Click on the green box in upper right hand side!

http://www.landolakesinc.com/company/corporateresponsibility/foundation/

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Girl Scout Cookies

2010-01-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

I received an email from a very good friend of mine the other day letting me know that her daughter is selling Girl Scout Cookies. Is it that time of year already? Of course I am willing to support others, after all I was a Girl Scout myself, however I really don't want those cookies in my house. First of all, it is the new year and a lot of people have make resolutions to eat better. Secondly, I have been working very hard for the last year and a half to lose weight and get in shape. And I have conquered that. So I simply told her that I would send her a check for some cookies but they are to stay there with her and be for her kids. After a bit she sent me a message. She learned that there are many people out there like me. So what her daughter's troop is doing, is giving the purchased and unwanted cookies to a local nursing home.

I encourage you this year to support the Girl Scouts. Ask them if they have a program like this and if not, put one together. It would only take a few moments to set it up. This way the Girl Scouts win, the recipients of the cookies win, and you win for not eating them while you are on your resolution. Although I must say, she is only the first of many that I know I am going to have to dodge and pass up those Thin Mints! Dang those Thin Mints! (fists in the air)

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Box Tops

2010-01-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

You know those little pink and white looking stamp things on certain boxes of cereal, granola bars, etc? Well, I have started to collect them. All you have to do is rip them off the boxes and take them to the local school. Each box top earns points for free stuff for the school. Could it get any easier?!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Resolutions

2010-01-01T19:06:00.001-08:00

I have been thinking a lot about the past year and what I have accomplished. Along with that, I am making new "resolutions" as I am sure most of are about what we want for this year. Here is what I have come up with. I want to Make A Difference. I realize that this may be just a bit obvious hence the blog and all but lets take it a little further.

When I started this blog, I said that I wanted to get on here every day and help you find other ways to Help Others. I realize that I can not do this every day. A lot of time we let our emotions take over and we over commit. I am still going to come on here as much as I can and help you to find ways to Help Others.

This year my number one resolution is to Make A Difference. How am I going to do that? Well, each month I am going to volunteer. For instance, in January, I am going to have a clothes swap at my work (Nov 8 blog entry). Then I am going to take the left over clothes to a local shelter and donate my time there. In February, I will be serving meals to families who are staying at Ronald McDonald House. These are just the first 2 of 12 ways that I will volunteer this year. What will you do?

Earlier I mentioned that I had been reflecting on 2009. I have not only been thinking of what I have accomplished, but the people who have helped me to do just so. There are so many people that I would like to thank (Nov 14 blog entry) and I will be doing so before the month is over. The media has also been going over not only the last year, but the last decade. What have we all been through and accomplished in the last decade? Yes, we have a black president. Yes, we have lost many iconic people. Yes, our country was made vulnerable by the attack on September 11, 2001. Please remember the lives that were lost and remember the people that were lost.

Yesterday my husband and I were watching a college football game. For the life of me I can't remember which one. It doesn't really matter. What does matter is that one of the running backs set a school record for most yards. He knew at the beginning of the game that it was a possibility. With minutes left in the game, he was fortunate enough to receive the ball and make a big play. When we went over to the sideline, he asked the statistician if that put him over the yards to break the school record. The answer was yes. What he did next was even more amazing that breaking the school record. He immediately went over to the front line and thanked each one of them. The front line does the blocking so that he is able to make catches and to run with the ball. He knew that he could not and did not break the record alone. This was an incredibly selfless act.

On this first day of January 2010, maybe you are still thinking of what your new year's resolution is going to be. Please remember those who have helped you along the way, those who have given you tools to be who you are, and those who you can help.

Thanks for listening and Happy New Year!

Sheryl

Ring A Bell

2009-12-14T14:53:00.000-08:00

During this time of the year it seems that everywhere you go there is some one ringing a bell for the Salvation Army. My brother and his family were bell ringers this week outside of a grocery store. So go to www.salvationarmy.com to find out how you can become a bell ringer to Help Others and Make A Difference.

Free Restaurant $$

2009-12-09T20:37:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me an email today with free money in it. You can go to www.restaurant.com and send your friends free money! We could all use a little help these days. Enjoy!

Donate

2009-12-04T07:36:00.000-08:00

The rule that I like to use is, if you haven't worn it in a year, donate it. If we are talking items that aren't clothing, if it doesn't have sentimental value and is cluttering up your home, donate it. You can find a Good Will store, an orphanage, or a Salvation Army closer than you think. One man's used items is another man's treasure.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

2009-12-03T20:24:00.001-08:00

Tell someone you love them. So mant times we take each other for granted. It is so easy to just turn to a family member or a friend and say, "I love you!". Make A Difference in someone elses day.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

2009-12-01T20:15:00.001-08:00

Donate your old cell phones. Schools can take them sometimes or churches. Even national sporting events are collecting them. By donating them you can help battered women, abused children and more. Make A Difference and Help Others for FREE!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Send Holiday Cards to Soldiers

2009-11-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

In this season of hope and giving the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes, Inc. have joined forces to invite Americans to “send a touch of home” to United States service members and veterans across the country and abroad. In its third year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program is an opportunity to share joy and thanks with our service members throughout the holiday season by way of a greeting card.

Today over 1.4 million men and women serve in the U.S. armed forces and over 24 million veterans have served in the past. The holiday season is the perfect time to honor and extend a warm holiday greeting to those who’ve served and continue to do so.

How Holiday Mail works

We have established an extensive process to ensure all cards sent to our service members are safe and arrive in time for the holidays. Holiday cards will be collected through a unique P.O. Box address from Monday, November 2 through Monday, December 7*.

First, cards from across the nation must be sent to this address:

Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456
Every card received will be screened for hazardous materials by Pitney Bowes and distributed to participating Red Cross chapters nationwide. Once the cards arrive at the Red Cross chapters, they are sorted and reviewed by volunteers who then distribute them to service members, their families and veterans in communities across the country.
Please don’t forget to follow these guidelines while preparing your holiday greetings!
Do...
Sign all cards
Entitle cards “Dear Service Member, Family or Veteran”
Limit cards to 15 per person or 50 for school class or business group
Bundle groups of cards in single, large envelopes (there is no need to include individual envelopes and postage for cards)
Don’t...
Send letters
Include personal information such as home or email addresses
Use glitter – excessive amounts can aggravate health issues of wounded recipients
Include inserts of any kind as they must be removed in the screening process

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Be Positive

2009-11-29T06:43:00.000-08:00

Again, my apologies for being out for a few days. Sometimes when I get sick, I just can't do anything else. I am back and ready to go.

Lately I have been going into work and there are a few people who just don't love their job and they show it! I am not saying that you have to love your job to to work there but why ruin it for everyone else. It's easy to complain about what is wrong. This person doesn't do this. That person doesn't do that. Why not turn our negatives into positives? Help to teach those that aren't doing something right, how to. If there isn't something to teach them and you are just venting, vent in private or to yourself. Just as positive attitude is contagious, so is negative attitude. Work goes much easier if we are all in a positive mood.

Make A Difference and Help Others to be positive.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

SMILE! :)

2009-11-23T17:02:00.000-08:00

So I have been M.I.A. for the last few days. With the holidays approaching I am getting busy as I am sure that most of you are as well. Over the next month or so we are going to do the easiest things ever to Make A Difference. Today all I want you to do is SMILE :). More often than not I will wake up, get ready, have breakfast, and leave the house in an awesome mood! Then I get to work or the store and someone there is in a bad mood and it rubs off onto me. That is so bad when all it takes is a SMILE :) to brighten up someone else's day. So SMILE :) and Make A Difference to someone else's day.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Hotel Shampoo, Conditioner & Soap

2009-11-20T14:46:00.000-08:00

It always seems that besides the summer time, the holidays are the busiest travel time of the year. Sometimes we stay with family, sometimes in a hotel. Sometimes we fly, sometimes we drive. Whatever you do during the holidays or any time you travel and stay at a hotel, gather up the FREE little bottles of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and soap. Then when you are passing by the Salvation Army, and orphanage, the YMCA, or even a church, drop them off. A church is a great convenient place to drop off needed items. Churches distribute items to people who could use them. Help Others and Make A Difference!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

2009-11-19T19:22:00.001-08:00

Today is Make A Difference for yourself. Set aside some time for you. Before the hustle and bustle of the holidays start, take a little time for you. Read a book, bake some cookies or go to the movies. You deserve it!

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Serve Food On Thanksgiving

2009-11-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is soon approaching. Many places will be serving meals to the homeless. Churches, YMCA's, orphanages, and including The Salvation Army. Each year many of The Cheesecake Factory's team up with The Salvation Army to help set up, serve, cook, etc for homeless.

Call your local establishment and see if they need help. Maybe you only have 2 hours because you have to set your dining room table and decorate it with squash bowls for soup, fold the napkins and put place tags in the little pilgrim holders. Then it is time to baste the turkey, season the stuffing, plate the cranberry sauce, and whip the mashed potatoes. Now think about not only doing those things for you and your family, but for those who have no home and no consistent meals on their "table" every day.

I hope that you feel inspired by what is written above. It is only meant to get your mind thinking about what you do every day, that can Help Others and help to Make A Difference.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Tennis Balls for Walkers

2009-11-17T04:21:00.000-08:00

Man am I busy! I have been working on 3 wedding albums, bartending, working out, running my usual errands, keeping in touch with friends, and getting ready for the holidays. As always, there is more to get done and it seems that the list never ends. Last night I didn't go to bed till 1 in the morning and was up at 6 am so I can start work again and get ready for my kick boxing class. Now I can't continue to get only 5 hours of sleep a night or I will be completely useless and it is bad for my body.

With all that being said, I am on a mission and today, my mission continues. Have you ever played tennis and still have all your tennis balls tucked back in a closet somewhere? Maybe you play tennis now and while you are out on the courts practicing you grab a ball out of your 75 count hopper only to find that when you bounce it, it is flat. If you are like me and play in a park that is near the woods, you take your flat tennis ball and chuck it in the woods. Well, not anymore!

Yesterday I was talking with my friend Amanda and she was telling me about how she is going to take all of her old tennis balls to a retirement home so that they can use them on the bottom of their walkers. How simple was her idea? It just goes to show that we don't have to search hard for ideas or take a lot of time Help Others and Make A Difference.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Share Your Services

2009-11-16T07:12:00.000-08:00

I got a call a few days ago and a company wanted to know if I would be willing to set up a time and take some photos. They were thinking that maybe we could set up a day where multiple families could come in and get some photos taken for the holidays. I thought that this would be a great opportunity to help out. I agreed to help out. I love taking photos and as you know, I love to Help Others. So what I am doing is donating the sitting fee to a charity. It is just a little way that I can Help Others and do what I love at the same time.

What can you do? If you have a special talent that can Help Others and Make A Difference put it to good use. You can be a coach to a kids sports team, tutor studies, teach someone to paint or draw, teach someone to play piano or cook. Whatever your special talent is, Make A Difference in someone else's life and bring something new to them.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Donate Books

2009-11-15T19:38:00.001-08:00

I was talking to a friend of mine today and she is going to let me borrow a book from her. I really nor a big reader but there are many who are. Today your way to Make A Difference is to gather the books, magazines, newspapers, etc in hour house or office and donate them to a local school, YMCA, orphanage, or retirement home. Help Others to learn and get their imagination going.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Write A Letter

2009-11-14T07:23:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up I was taught a valuable lesson from my Great Aunt Pat. She was the little amazing woman who was so giving, loving, and honorable. I remember going to her home and when you walked in the door there was a little table with a guest book on it. As a guest, I would sign that book every single time I went to her house. Aunt Pat was proud of the people she had in her life and she wanted to document them.

One way that she showed she cared was to send birthday notes, thank you notes, etc. She did this for everyone and everything. A lot of time people will go to the store, pick out a card, sign it and send it off. While it is great that we remember birthdays and anniversaries, it seems so much more personal and important if there were note cards with a hand written message in it. It is a little extra step to show someone that you took extra time to think about them and show them how much you care. This will help to Make A Difference in their life.

In 2001 at the age of 94 my Great Aunt Pat passed away. One thing that I will always remember about her is how she made others feel. How she made them feel that they were important to her, by doing something simple. So leave the email for work or everyday conversation, leave the comic cards at Target or Walmart. Grab a blank note card and handwrite a message to someone just to say hi and you are thinking of them.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Get Others To Join

2009-11-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

Todays way to Make A Difference is to get others to join this blog. The more people that read this blog, the more people that are out there wanting to Make A Difference. It is so important to spread the word about this blog. Helping Others for FREE and still being to live our lives day to day.

Have a great weekend!

Thanks for listening!

Click on a Website and Feed for FREE

2009-11-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I have such a HUGE heart for animals. I just love them and they give complete and unconditional love. Sometimes I feel that I need to do more for them as well. Click on www.theanimalrescuesite.com and click on the big purple button. It is FREE for you and what happens is that sponsors give money for all the clicks. Add this link to your toolbar and click on it as much as possible. Animals make our world a better place. If for some reason you are not an animal lover, someone you know and love it. Do it for them. Make A Difference for not only yourself but for others as well.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Donate to Vietnam Veterans

2009-11-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

Today is Veterans Day! Thank you to all of the service men and women of yesterday and today for all you do. It comes to my mind, since you have done so much for us what can we do for you? Well, we can call 800.775.8387 or go to www.vva.org and schedule and appointment for the Vietman Veterans to come by your house and pick up any and all household goods, clothing & shoes, bedding, jewelry, toys, games, small furniture, small appliances, housewares & glassware, tools, and more!

Now for my update. As you know I have made a commitment to ride 150 miles for Bike MS. I took yesterday off from working out, as we should all take a day off every now and then. Today I doubled up. I didn't just go to kick boxing today... I went twice!

I hope you all are doing well with your Helping Others. Please keep me informed on what you are doing to Make A Difference.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Help A Food Bank

2009-11-10T12:14:00.000-08:00

The holidays are coming up a lot sooner than you think. Believe it or not there is only 45 days left till Christmas! The holidays are the busiest time of year for Food Banks. Call your local Food Bank or go to www.feedingamerica.org to find one and donate some of your time. You can help to sort out food, put bags together for families, or help stock the shelves.

What kind of people use the Food Banks? Believe it or not, you don't have to be homeless or jobless to get the support of a Food Bank. It might be the person sitting next to you at work or the person who lives next door to you.

Food Banks need help all year round but especially during the holidays. All it takes is a few hours to help out. If you feel that you don't have a few hours to give, grab a couple of extra things at the grocery store and drop them off. Every little bit helps.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Cook A Meal

2009-11-09T21:25:00.000-08:00

Hey all! I know it is late today and technically it is tomorrow but what a busy day! I started the day off with a great breakfast full of protein. I need lots of protein these days as I prepare for my 150 miles bike ride for Bike MS. Yes, I am still excited about it!

So let's see... today Cook A Meal to Make A Difference for someone. Maybe there is a neighbor that you would like to introduce yourself to or a single parent who has to work several jobs just to put food on the table for his/her kids. Three could be many reasons to Cook A Meal for someone but the biggest reason is to Make A Difference. Below I have listed some scenarios in which it would be awesome to Cook A Meal for someone.

* A family/person with someone in the hospital

* A family/person with one of the parents out of town

* A family/person that just had a death in the family

* A neighbor that you would like to introduce yourself to

* A single parent who had to work several jobs just to put food on the table

* Someone who did a favor for you

* Someone you want to spend time with

* Someone who achieved something great

* Someone who needs a little pick-me-up

Again, these are just a few reasons to Cook A Meal for someone and you can Make A Difference in someone today.

Have a clothes swap!

2009-11-08T19:12:00.000-08:00

Today's Make A Difference is to have a clothes swap. What is it you ask? Easy, invite a bunch of people over to your house. Ask them to go through their closets and bring clothes that they do not wear anymore. When everyone gets to your house, separate the clothes into sizes and start "shopping"! You can also bring kids clothes, hubby clothes, etc. Free clothes and a great time! Now I know, generally when people come over you may feel that you need to entertain and have goodies out to nibble on. Ask your guests to bring an item as well.

Now to update you on my training for the Bike MS. I am starting to get back in my workout routine. Yesterday I played a little golf, yes I said golf. Believe it or not, it does work out your muscles. For future notice to all of you, stretch before you play golf. Today Matt (my husband) and I played some tennis. It was such a beautiful day and so I wanted to do something outside. Tomorrow will be kick boxing.

Have a great clothes swap and thanks for listening!

Sheryl

Make a Difference

2009-11-07T08:03:00.000-08:00

Last night was a big night for me. I decided to start this blog and I am so excited! I have so many ideas. So many ideas to help get people (YOU) involved in Helping Others and to Make A Difference.

There are several things that I am hoping will happen with this blog.

1. To get a lot of followers and inspire people (YOU) to Make A Difference

2. To do research for you and help to educate you on ways that you can Make A Difference without money and still being able to live your normal day-to-day lives.

3. I keep you up-to-date on my training and goal for Helping Others with my 150 mile bike ride for Multiple Sclerosis.

What can you do today to help others? Super easy! Go to your linen closet. Get out a bunch of old towels and sheets. Drop them off at a local veterinary office, animal shelter, or humane society. The use for these items is to make a bed for animals, to clean up after them, and bathe them.

Thanks for listening!

Sheryl

The Decision to Help Others

2009-11-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

I am sitting on an airplane on my way home to Atlanta from Chicago. For the last three days I have been doing a photo shoot for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This is my third year shooting their annual conference for them. Each year as I listen to the speakers, the award winners and the doctors talk about MS and their fight to have "A World Free of MS" I become a little more inspired.

Let's start a little farther back in time. I have been wanting to do something to help others for quite a while now. I have been feeling like there is something missing in my life. Apparently this is usual for people no matter what age they are. I have been using my Facebook status updates lately asking my friends for suggestions. I have had some great ones and will share with you in the days, weeks, and months to come.

I have my photo business since it is more of a hobby for me and not 'work' I have been trying to think of something to do in that area. Not really finding anything that I feel would reach enough people, I kept on the mission. It isn't that I feel that I need to reach millions to help others, I just didn't get that it was the right thing to do. After all, if I get one person to help another I am on the right track.

I work at Cheesecake Factory part-time and love it! I have some great friends and I love to bartend and meet new people. Business travelers, families, groups of friends and even the ever-so-often ladies in their 60's or 70's who haven't seen each other since college. I am not kidding, it happens more than you would think! Back in September The Cheesecake Factory as a company teamed up with Feeding America. I instantly went to the management staff and told them that I wanted to head up a team to help raise money. And that is what I did. In less than a month we raised $600 and were able to purchase 2,300 cans of food for our local food bank in Atlanta. I was so pleased. But what was I going to do when September ended?

My thoughts started going again. My husband and I moved to Atlanta from Chicago we decided to live in an apartment since we still had a house in Chicago. Going from a full house to an 1100 sq. ft. apartment is a big change and we didn't have the room for all of our stuff. A lot of it went into a storage unit. So with the wheels turning, I decided to clean out the storage closet and donate stuff. That I did. I gave boxes and boxes of clothing, kitchen stuff, electronics, etc. to Goodwill. Of course it was a great satisfaction to get the storage unit clean, but it felt even better to be able to donate items that others could benefit from. We weren't using the items and there are others who could use my items to help them in life.

So that was October. It is now November and we are back to the three days that I just spent at the annual conference for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Phil Koeghan was a speaker this year. He talked very little about his book "No Opportunity Wasted" and about his life list. I had one of those once. I do know where it is but haven't pulled it out in a a few years. If I brought it out I could probably cross one or two items off but I would also add a lot of things as well. Another speaker talked about how to reach out to others to help raise money for MS. Naturally she suggested Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. I was starting to get the wheels turning. As I shoot this conference each year I have the pleasure not only learning about MS and how to help but also talk to hundreds of people who are affected by it directly or indirectly. There is Walk MS and Bike MS that thousands of people each year all over the world participate in. 2-Day walks and 150 mile bike rides to raise money and help to support MS. Here is where it gets good! I have decided that I... yes I... am going to participate in a 150 mile bike ride in 2010 to help create "A World Free Of MS"!

I feel that this is what I am supposed to be doing. I am supposed to be helping others and raising awareness. Over the next days, weeks, and months I will be raising awareness not only of MS but Helping Others in general. Each day I will update you on my training for the bike ride and will also give you suggestions on how you can help others. You won't even need any money.

It is tough times right now and a little help goes a long way. If I have inspired you please keep up with my blog and hopefully something will get your wheels turning. Then you can help turn other wheels.

Let's Help Others!