Well, today is the first day of the new week (I know, most people consider Sunday. But I'm choosing today, so there). I am DETERMINED to have a better week than last week (kinda setting the bar a little low, aren't I?).
One of the bees that got into my bonnet today was charitable giving. It occurred to me that I am past my 56 days of waiting to be eligible to give more blood. Fortunately, there's a blood drive on Thursday, so I've put that on my calendar to do. I love the feeling I get after I've donated blood, like I've really done something worthwhile. It's only a short time out of my life (although the last time I had to wait freakin' forever, because I was a walk-in...I really should schedule a time for this one), and it really helps people, possibly even saving a life. Plus, I have veins in the crook of my elbow that you can pretty much see from across the room, so the techs LOVE me. They could throw the needle across the room like darts and still hit 'em.
Another thing I try to do is click on the Hunger Site every day. (see the button on the left side of the page....have you clicked it??) In addition to donating 1.1 cups of food each day, there are five other charity sites you can help just by clicking a button. Why would you NOT do this?? I have a daily email reminder sent to me so I remember to do it.
Beyond that, I do try to do a little donating each year. I send money to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. I have donated to the Pine Tree Society, the March of Dimes, Cambodian mosquito nets against malaria, I've sent stuff to local food banks, participated in book drives for the children's wing of the local hospital. I know there's other stuff, but my brain is still a little fried.
What I'm getting to is that I'm in search of some new charities. I'm fussy: I don't want to send my money somewhere where 90% of it is going to be eaten up by administrative costs. I want to know that my money actually, truly does make a difference. I'd rather help people than animals, although I'm not opposed to suggestions for our furry friends (no skunk charities, please). I'd prefer *not* to have to donate a set amount each month, which leaves out sponsoring children.
So, suggestions, please. What are your favorites? Thanks for your help! mk
2 comments:
Hey there,
We've supported Compassion International ever since we got married. They provide clothes/education/basic needs to children in third world countries. It's always great to see a child graduate from school and the program, knowing they've been fed and provided for during the years that they would not be able to do it for themselves.
-bm
p.s. hope you found some entertaining fun from those websites people listed at my blog. everyone has such different taste in humor. :)
I'm a big fan of Doctors without Borders. They rock!
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