Salvation Army vs. United Way
The Salvation Army and United Way are just two of many well known charities in the United States. Have you ever wondered which one was the better place to volunteer? Maybe you wondered where you would make the most impact? We are about to take compare each charity apples to apples, let's see what the numbers say to you!
Volunteers make a significant impact on many people and communities around the world on a daily basis, so no matter where you volunteer it is going to make a difference. There are many charities who visibly ask for donations and support, but there are also many charities that aren’t as noticeable but need assistance just as much.
Both Salvation Army and United Way have been active for over 100 years. The Salvation Army was founded by a preacher named William Booth in 1865 (Salvation Army p 2). Currently the Salvation Army is active in 107 countries and assists 33 million people annually (Salvation Army p 2). United Way was founded by a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi in 1887 (Live United p 1). United Way’s network is available in 45 countries and territories (Live United p 1). Both Salvation Army and United Way touch millions of lives every year, as you can see their numbers are astronomical.
The Salvation Army has a wide variety of services available with the assistance of 1.6 million volunteers with over 9,000 service units across the country (Salvation Army p 6). Obviously Salvation Army would not be able to touch that many lives without the help of the volunteers. They operate domestic violence shelters, AIDS hospice centers, and missing persons services. The Salvation Army’s League of Mercy assists people who have special needs in nursing homes, hospitals, and even correctional facilities. The Salvation Army even provided front-line war support during both World War I and World War II. The Salvation Army appears to be one of the lesser noticed charities throughout the year, with it being most visible during the holidays. Even if Salvation Army seems to be quiet through the year they are very active year round. Their holiday season campaign seems to be the most noticed. I’m sure that everyone has seen the bell ringer that stands outside of stores for donations. The Salvation Army assists an astounding 6 million people during the holiday season, so it is important to give those bell ringers a donation whenever possible (Salvation Army p 3). Their slogan is “Need Knows No Season”. The goal of the Salvation Army is to meet the physical and spiritual needs of people. Obviously the work of Salvation Army is very important.
The United Way’s mission statement is to “Improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.” They seem to have focus on three main areas but seem to have a wide variety of services available to the public. The United Way focuses on education, income, and health. The United Way helps parents with education by giving them access to quality childcare to give the kids a solid head start to their school-age years. Through their Born Learning campaign they are helping students stay in school and hope to cut the dropout rate by 2018. The United Way has a Financial Stability Partnership program that helps lower income individuals and families get the financial independence they have always dreamed of but thought was never possible. They also work to ensure that people who don't have access to healthcare, with their help will be able to obtain it. As everyone knows healthcare has been a hot topic for many years. Making sure that families have healthcare available helps everyone involved.
Obviously these charities are very important on many different levels but as you can see they have different focuses. The decision that you as a volunteer or donator has to make is where you want to make your impact. What area do you feel needs the most help? Everyone is going to have their own thoughts on this topic. The best thing to do before you donate money is research the charity. Every charity is important because they those who need assistance. Our world would not be the same if charities weren’t around. Donate your time or money, whatever you are able to do and touch the life of someone who needs it. No matter what charity you choose you will be making a difference.
Works Cited:
“About” United Way. United Way Corporation n.d. Web.
http://www.liveunited.org/about/
“History” United Way. United Way Corporation n.d. Web.
http://www.liveunited.org/about/history.cfm
“Quick Facts” Salvation Army. Salvation Army Corporation n.d. Web.
http://www.salvationarmynw.org/contact/quickfacts.asp
Monday, April 19, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Volunteering May Be Good For Your Health
Volunteering is one of most common and oldest ways of giving back to the community. Recently I have had my own experience with volunteering and have found it to an amazing and exciting opportunity. Volunteering has made me feel something I never expected. The feeling is difficult to explain, but the best way I could describe it is similar to the feeling you get when you cuddle a newborn baby. The warm and fuzzy feeling that engulfs your entire body, this is the feeling I get when I volunteer. Volunteering is good for the heart and soul, but recent studies by Corporation for National and Community Service has proven that volunteering has great health benefits too (“The Health” par 3).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of September 2009 63.4 million Americans are volunteering annually, that is 26.8 percent of the population (“Volunteering” par. 1). Those numbers show great deal of people are enjoying the warm and fuzzy feeling from volunteering, but there always could be more. Most volunteers are women aged 35 to 54 years old (“Volunteering” par. 4). Adults who have higher education such as bachelors degree or higher are more likely to volunteer then those that do not. Adults 65 years and old account for 8,712 volunteers (“Volunteering” par. 9). These numbers are great but there are so many more people that should be taking advantage of all of the volunteering opportunities that are available.
Reports published by Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the most common form of
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volunteering is fundraising (“Volunteering” par 16). Nearly 11.3 percent of all volunteer work is fundraising. I would assume that fundraising is the easiest form of volunteering , but based on my own personal experience the volunteer is going to get the most benefit from direct person to person contact. Collecting and preparing food was the next most common way to volunteer. 10.3 percent of men and women volunteers were involved in this. On a sunny Saturday afternoon I got to participate in collecting and preparing food. I was not a member of the church that was organizing the event, but they were warm and welcoming to me. They made me feel as if I had always be a part of their once a month Saturday ritual. We prepared spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, and brownies. After everything was cooked and packaged, we had the pleasure of passing the meals out to the homeless. Out of all of the volunteering activities that I have been involved in during my quest, this was my favorite. I met some incredible people and felt like I actually touched the lives of many people. I feel that this could be something that I could do one Saturday a month for the rest of my life.
In the past research has focused on the benefits received in the community from
volunteering, but in recent years this focus has shifted more on the benefits you receive when you take the time to volunteer. Volunteering has shown to give a new sense of purpose to our older population which has helped them to keep active. The positive effects of volunteering are felt mentally and physically by the person volunteering. It helps people to maintain a strong social network that would not normally be there. According to Adam Voiland in his article “Volunteering Maybe Be Good For Your Health” as little as two hours a week will give added health benefits (“Volunteering” par. 2). He states there is a “helpers high” which is caused by oxytocin released into
Gioffredi 3
the body ( “Volunteering” par 3). I have experienced this helpers high and was amazed at how it
made me felt like I was invincible. It gave me energy and made me feel like I was on top of the world. Just think if everyone took a small amount of their time to volunteer they would find this high to be something they can’t get enough of.
According to Corporation for National and Community Service being involved in volunteer activities gives the abilities to strengthen social ties to protect individuals from isolation during difficult times (“Benefits” 6). It also leads to a sense of self worth and trust. Volunteering can also reduce depression in older adults. A study of older adults provides data supporting that retirees have more life satisfaction when they are involved in volunteering (Harlow and Cantor 1996). Just from my short stint with volunteering I can see how this would benefit everyone young and old.
Analysis of data from The Longititudal Study of Aging showed that people who volunteered had lower mortality rates then those who did not volunteer (Sabin 3). People who volunteered aged 55 years or older showed to have a significant drop in mortality rates. On top of lower mortality rates they also expressed lower amounts of pain and better overall health. These benefits are amplified when the volunteers are working one on one with another human being. After reading these findings, how could someone not immediately sign up to start volunteering. If you could do something good for others as well as doing something beneficial to themselves.
There is a threshold of volunteering though according to Assets and Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old Survey (“Individual“ p3). The maximum benefits are achieved by volunteering no more then 100 hours per year or approximately 2 hours per week. No additional benefits were noticed if more then 2 hours of volunteering per week. Just think of what a small
Gioffredi 4
amount of time 2 hours a week is. A few hours of your time every week will make a great impact on your community as well as give you added health benefits.
Research on the benefit of younger people involved in volunteering is still being done. Everyone who volunteers will benefit by making a difference in their community and with volunteering you can: solve problems, strengthen communities, improve lives, connect to others, and transform our own lives. No matter if you are wanting to help touch the life of someone else or to transform your life the effects of volunteering is great for all.
Works Cited
“Benefits of Volunteering.” Corporation of National and Community Service
“The Health Benefits Of Volunteering.” Corporation for National and Community Service 2007
Luoh, M-C and Herzog, A.R. (2002) “Individual Consequences of Volunteer and Paid Work In Old Age: Health and Mortality.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 43(4), 490-509.
Voiland, Adam, “Volunteering May Be Good For Your Health.” 7 May 2007
“Volunteering In The United States.” News Release 26 January 2010.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of September 2009 63.4 million Americans are volunteering annually, that is 26.8 percent of the population (“Volunteering” par. 1). Those numbers show great deal of people are enjoying the warm and fuzzy feeling from volunteering, but there always could be more. Most volunteers are women aged 35 to 54 years old (“Volunteering” par. 4). Adults who have higher education such as bachelors degree or higher are more likely to volunteer then those that do not. Adults 65 years and old account for 8,712 volunteers (“Volunteering” par. 9). These numbers are great but there are so many more people that should be taking advantage of all of the volunteering opportunities that are available.
Reports published by Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the most common form of
Gioffredi 2
volunteering is fundraising (“Volunteering” par 16). Nearly 11.3 percent of all volunteer work is fundraising. I would assume that fundraising is the easiest form of volunteering , but based on my own personal experience the volunteer is going to get the most benefit from direct person to person contact. Collecting and preparing food was the next most common way to volunteer. 10.3 percent of men and women volunteers were involved in this. On a sunny Saturday afternoon I got to participate in collecting and preparing food. I was not a member of the church that was organizing the event, but they were warm and welcoming to me. They made me feel as if I had always be a part of their once a month Saturday ritual. We prepared spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, and brownies. After everything was cooked and packaged, we had the pleasure of passing the meals out to the homeless. Out of all of the volunteering activities that I have been involved in during my quest, this was my favorite. I met some incredible people and felt like I actually touched the lives of many people. I feel that this could be something that I could do one Saturday a month for the rest of my life.
In the past research has focused on the benefits received in the community from
volunteering, but in recent years this focus has shifted more on the benefits you receive when you take the time to volunteer. Volunteering has shown to give a new sense of purpose to our older population which has helped them to keep active. The positive effects of volunteering are felt mentally and physically by the person volunteering. It helps people to maintain a strong social network that would not normally be there. According to Adam Voiland in his article “Volunteering Maybe Be Good For Your Health” as little as two hours a week will give added health benefits (“Volunteering” par. 2). He states there is a “helpers high” which is caused by oxytocin released into
Gioffredi 3
the body ( “Volunteering” par 3). I have experienced this helpers high and was amazed at how it
made me felt like I was invincible. It gave me energy and made me feel like I was on top of the world. Just think if everyone took a small amount of their time to volunteer they would find this high to be something they can’t get enough of.
According to Corporation for National and Community Service being involved in volunteer activities gives the abilities to strengthen social ties to protect individuals from isolation during difficult times (“Benefits” 6). It also leads to a sense of self worth and trust. Volunteering can also reduce depression in older adults. A study of older adults provides data supporting that retirees have more life satisfaction when they are involved in volunteering (Harlow and Cantor 1996). Just from my short stint with volunteering I can see how this would benefit everyone young and old.
Analysis of data from The Longititudal Study of Aging showed that people who volunteered had lower mortality rates then those who did not volunteer (Sabin 3). People who volunteered aged 55 years or older showed to have a significant drop in mortality rates. On top of lower mortality rates they also expressed lower amounts of pain and better overall health. These benefits are amplified when the volunteers are working one on one with another human being. After reading these findings, how could someone not immediately sign up to start volunteering. If you could do something good for others as well as doing something beneficial to themselves.
There is a threshold of volunteering though according to Assets and Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old Survey (“Individual“ p3). The maximum benefits are achieved by volunteering no more then 100 hours per year or approximately 2 hours per week. No additional benefits were noticed if more then 2 hours of volunteering per week. Just think of what a small
Gioffredi 4
amount of time 2 hours a week is. A few hours of your time every week will make a great impact on your community as well as give you added health benefits.
Research on the benefit of younger people involved in volunteering is still being done. Everyone who volunteers will benefit by making a difference in their community and with volunteering you can: solve problems, strengthen communities, improve lives, connect to others, and transform our own lives. No matter if you are wanting to help touch the life of someone else or to transform your life the effects of volunteering is great for all.
Works Cited
“Benefits of Volunteering.” Corporation of National and Community Service
“The Health Benefits Of Volunteering.” Corporation for National and Community Service 2007
Luoh, M-C and Herzog, A.R. (2002) “Individual Consequences of Volunteer and Paid Work In Old Age: Health and Mortality.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 43(4), 490-509.
Voiland, Adam, “Volunteering May Be Good For Your Health.” 7 May 2007
“Volunteering In The United States.” News Release 26 January 2010.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
The End!
This is the last day of our quest. It has been a great learning experience for me and my family. My kids were involved in some of my quests and keep asking me when we are going to do it again. We are definitely going to continue as much as we are going to be able to fit in.
I have set up to head to the animal shelter and volunteer our time helping to walk the dogs. I will continue to do our Family to Family donations monthly. I cant wait for our Habitat for Hours time this spring.
I have to admit that my entire family looks at volunteering differently.
I have set up to head to the animal shelter and volunteer our time helping to walk the dogs. I will continue to do our Family to Family donations monthly. I cant wait for our Habitat for Hours time this spring.
I have to admit that my entire family looks at volunteering differently.
Only 2 days left!
I have been thinking long and hard about my final quest but unfortunately I have been unable to come up with someone spectacular to do before this assignment ends. I have, however, figured out something that my entire family is going to do this spring.
I was talking with a friend and she told me there was some Habitat for Humanity Houses going up in our community. My friend told mke that they were looking for volunteers to help build the house.
I think this is the perfect way to get my entire family involved. My husband is great with his hands. My oldest son would learn a lot and my youngest two could help too.
I called and got us all signed up! I have to admit that I am very excited for the day to come for us to get started. I think that it will be a learning experience for us all.
I was talking with a friend and she told me there was some Habitat for Humanity Houses going up in our community. My friend told mke that they were looking for volunteers to help build the house.
I think this is the perfect way to get my entire family involved. My husband is great with his hands. My oldest son would learn a lot and my youngest two could help too.
I called and got us all signed up! I have to admit that I am very excited for the day to come for us to get started. I think that it will be a learning experience for us all.
3 more days til the end!
I have been feeling under the weather. I guess it's the change of the seasons but its really wearing me down so today I spent the day mostly on the couch.
I used the time to surf the net for different volunteer opportunities and ways to help out charities.
I found many of them that I would like to do provided I have the time. If there were only 25 hours in a day!
Here is a quote to ponder on:
"In every community, there is work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart, there is the power to do it."
Marianne Williamson
I used the time to surf the net for different volunteer opportunities and ways to help out charities.
I found many of them that I would like to do provided I have the time. If there were only 25 hours in a day!
Here is a quote to ponder on:
"In every community, there is work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart, there is the power to do it."
Marianne Williamson
#2 of the End!
Well nothing has hit me so far to finish with a blast but I had a great opportunity to help someone out today. I was at work and one of my coworkers vehicle was not starting. They were due to come on for the shift that was after me but had no way into work. There was no one that could cover their shift for them.
I overheard a few of my coworkers talking about if they only had someone to go and pick them up. I didn't have anything going on so I told them that I would be more then happy to go and pick them up!
My coworker was very happy for me to pick them up. On the ride in she told me how much she needed the money and told me if there was anything that I needed to be sure to let her know.
I overheard a few of my coworkers talking about if they only had someone to go and pick them up. I didn't have anything going on so I told them that I would be more then happy to go and pick them up!
My coworker was very happy for me to pick them up. On the ride in she told me how much she needed the money and told me if there was anything that I needed to be sure to let her know.
The beginning of the end.
It is the start of our last week. I have been racking my brain the last two days trying to find the perfect way to end my quest.
When we first started this I wasn't too sure how it would go but I have to admit that so far I have truly enjoyed my experience.
I think that this week I am just going to take things as they come and see what falls into my lap. I am hoping that I am going to have a light bulb momemnt of how to end things with a bang!
So far I have nothing so let's hope for a creative night for me!
When we first started this I wasn't too sure how it would go but I have to admit that so far I have truly enjoyed my experience.
I think that this week I am just going to take things as they come and see what falls into my lap. I am hoping that I am going to have a light bulb momemnt of how to end things with a bang!
So far I have nothing so let's hope for a creative night for me!
End of the Doggy Drive
We now have collected from everyone that stated they would donate items for our Doggy Drive. We are very happy with our collection of items and it was time to load them up into my truck.
Our supply mound was quite a bit bigger then what we thought. We filled up the entire back end of my SUV and filled up my husband car as well with our treasures.
We headed up to the shelter. We met with the supervisor and she instructed us where to put the supplies. The employees came out to help us unload the vehicles. They were shocked when they saw how much we had collected.
We had received 8 bags of dog food, $175 in cash donations, at least 20 blankets, 3 boxes of dog treats, dog toys, and a few bottles of dog shampoos.
I have to admit that this is quite possibly the proudest I have been with our accomplishments. We had a great turn out and the kids were very happy with their involvement in it.
The employees from the shelter thanked up over and over. It was a great week!
Our supply mound was quite a bit bigger then what we thought. We filled up the entire back end of my SUV and filled up my husband car as well with our treasures.
We headed up to the shelter. We met with the supervisor and she instructed us where to put the supplies. The employees came out to help us unload the vehicles. They were shocked when they saw how much we had collected.
We had received 8 bags of dog food, $175 in cash donations, at least 20 blankets, 3 boxes of dog treats, dog toys, and a few bottles of dog shampoos.
I have to admit that this is quite possibly the proudest I have been with our accomplishments. We had a great turn out and the kids were very happy with their involvement in it.
The employees from the shelter thanked up over and over. It was a great week!
Day 4 Doggy Drive
It is a gloomy day but I am not going to let that stop the fun things that were going on around my house.
Today is the day that I started receiving the first of the cash donations. In the mail we received $125 in donations. I know thats not a ton but any amount is helpful in some way.
We also headed to the local DAV to see if we could get our hands on some cheap blankets for the shelter. We did score a few nice blankets for very little money.
My daughter also walked another dog today for a few supplies. She seems to enjoy this very much. I think that we have found a little part time job for her.
My laundry room is now overcome with supplies. We have scheduled to drop the supplies off on Saturday.
Today is the day that I started receiving the first of the cash donations. In the mail we received $125 in donations. I know thats not a ton but any amount is helpful in some way.
We also headed to the local DAV to see if we could get our hands on some cheap blankets for the shelter. We did score a few nice blankets for very little money.
My daughter also walked another dog today for a few supplies. She seems to enjoy this very much. I think that we have found a little part time job for her.
My laundry room is now overcome with supplies. We have scheduled to drop the supplies off on Saturday.
Day 3 Doggy Drive
Today we were scheduled to walk two dogs. I picked up my daughter from school. It was a beautiful day to be dog walking.
We headed to our first "appointment" of the afternoon. When we arrived we were pleasantly surprised to find a heap of supplies waiting at the back door.
There were blankets, dog treat, dog food, and toys.
My daughter's eyes lit up when she saw them. We loaded the items up into our truck and she headed on her way for her dogwalk.
The second "appointment" of the day went just as well! We were quite excited on how things were going.
We headed to our first "appointment" of the afternoon. When we arrived we were pleasantly surprised to find a heap of supplies waiting at the back door.
There were blankets, dog treat, dog food, and toys.
My daughter's eyes lit up when she saw them. We loaded the items up into our truck and she headed on her way for her dogwalk.
The second "appointment" of the day went just as well! We were quite excited on how things were going.
Doggy Drive Day 2
Today we spent the day trying to think of ideas on how to get our hands on as much supplies as we could for the shelter.
We decided today that we were going to use technology to help us out. We sent an email to all of our friends and relatives explaining our drive. I actually let my daughter create the email. It was something that was very important to her. She did a great job. She listed all of the supplies that were needed and even offered that she would walk the dog of anyone that donated.
I was very happy and surprised at how many replies that we received back. Many didn't live in the area but were willing to send cash donations. The ones who did live in the area all had items they were willing to supply.
A few also took my daughter up on her offer to walk their dogs so we worked out a schedule to walk their dog and get their supplies.
I can tell its going to be an exciting week!
We decided today that we were going to use technology to help us out. We sent an email to all of our friends and relatives explaining our drive. I actually let my daughter create the email. It was something that was very important to her. She did a great job. She listed all of the supplies that were needed and even offered that she would walk the dog of anyone that donated.
I was very happy and surprised at how many replies that we received back. Many didn't live in the area but were willing to send cash donations. The ones who did live in the area all had items they were willing to supply.
A few also took my daughter up on her offer to walk their dogs so we worked out a schedule to walk their dog and get their supplies.
I can tell its going to be an exciting week!
Doggy Drive.
The local dog shelter has been running low on supplies. I saw an advertisement in the paper asking for donations of blankets, dog food, and other supplies.
My daughter is a huge animal advocate. I have a feeling when she grows up she's going to be a vet. Her and I decided that this was going to be our quest for the week.
We went to the shelter and discussed with a few employees what kind of things they need. We were given a list and started our hunt for supplies.
First thing we did when we got home was go through our blankets. I was surprised at the stock of blankets that we were harboring in our house that we never used. They needed blankets for the dogs bedding. The next step was to head to Walmart to buy the biggest bag of dog food I could find for the shelter as our person donation.
Next we worked on flyers to hand out to our neighbors asking for their assistance. In our flyer we listed all of the items that were needed. We also listed a date and time of when we would be around to pick up the supplies.
I can't wait to see how this one turns out!
My daughter is a huge animal advocate. I have a feeling when she grows up she's going to be a vet. Her and I decided that this was going to be our quest for the week.
We went to the shelter and discussed with a few employees what kind of things they need. We were given a list and started our hunt for supplies.
First thing we did when we got home was go through our blankets. I was surprised at the stock of blankets that we were harboring in our house that we never used. They needed blankets for the dogs bedding. The next step was to head to Walmart to buy the biggest bag of dog food I could find for the shelter as our person donation.
Next we worked on flyers to hand out to our neighbors asking for their assistance. In our flyer we listed all of the items that were needed. We also listed a date and time of when we would be around to pick up the supplies.
I can't wait to see how this one turns out!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Sunday at Walmart.
Yes, I know it seems like I spend alot of time shopping. I have a 14 year old son and 10 year old daughter who are skinny as can be but eat, and eat, and eat!
This time at Walmart I needed to do two weeks of grocery shopping. The weather is beautiful and the sun is shining so I got up nice and early to get it all done.
I had a FULL cart of food. It was nearly overflowing. I checked out then headed to my car to load everything all up. I got it all loaded into my SUV then was taking my cart back to the cart center when I noticed a lady whos cart must have tipped over and it was nearly as full as mine was.
I saw everyone walking by her and shaking their head...as if to say that poor lady! I thought why arent they helping her!
I walked over to her and said "It looks like you need some help!." She looked completely frazzled. She said " Yes I really need some help!"
It only took 5 minutes of my day to help her pack her groceries back into her bags and then help her put them back into her car.
This time at Walmart I needed to do two weeks of grocery shopping. The weather is beautiful and the sun is shining so I got up nice and early to get it all done.
I had a FULL cart of food. It was nearly overflowing. I checked out then headed to my car to load everything all up. I got it all loaded into my SUV then was taking my cart back to the cart center when I noticed a lady whos cart must have tipped over and it was nearly as full as mine was.
I saw everyone walking by her and shaking their head...as if to say that poor lady! I thought why arent they helping her!
I walked over to her and said "It looks like you need some help!." She looked completely frazzled. She said " Yes I really need some help!"
It only took 5 minutes of my day to help her pack her groceries back into her bags and then help her put them back into her car.
Spring cleaning!
My kids and I have been doing our best to be sure that we are not wasteful and be sure to recycle anything that we can. Spring is just around the corner and its time to go through their closets. I told them that this year I wanted to donate any toys and clothes that dont fit them any more to a local abuse shelter. They help women and children that are trying to get away from domestic abuse situations. These women are basically having to start over!
We spent the entire afternoon into the evening working on emptying out the unneeded things from their bedrooms and closets. By the time that we were done I had 9 large bags of clothes and 3 boxes of toys.
Quite a pile of loot..I must say! I dropped them off at the shelter on Friday and they were very thank full! This is really turning out to be a great week!
We spent the entire afternoon into the evening working on emptying out the unneeded things from their bedrooms and closets. By the time that we were done I had 9 large bags of clothes and 3 boxes of toys.
Quite a pile of loot..I must say! I dropped them off at the shelter on Friday and they were very thank full! This is really turning out to be a great week!
Thursdays collections.
I have been using my networking skills to see just how many items I could collect to use on my next feed the homeless stent.
I have been sending out emails and just talking to some people in my neighborhood abougt it. Today was the day to collect them. I have had several people commit to helping out the cause.
I started at the first stop of the day and just picked up a few items...wasnt too sure just how this was going to go. Would it be worth all of my hard work?
By the end of the day my medium sized SUV was full! I dont think that I could have stuffed another thing in there. I was so very proud to deliver the items to the church.
When I got to the church to drop off my items everyone was very surprised at how many things I had for them.
My goal next week is to get items for the local animal shelter..I hope that it goes over just as well!
I have been sending out emails and just talking to some people in my neighborhood abougt it. Today was the day to collect them. I have had several people commit to helping out the cause.
I started at the first stop of the day and just picked up a few items...wasnt too sure just how this was going to go. Would it be worth all of my hard work?
By the end of the day my medium sized SUV was full! I dont think that I could have stuffed another thing in there. I was so very proud to deliver the items to the church.
When I got to the church to drop off my items everyone was very surprised at how many things I had for them.
My goal next week is to get items for the local animal shelter..I hope that it goes over just as well!
Wednesday at Hy-Vee
Wednesday I was starting to run out of food so I headed to Hy-Vee to pick up a few supplies. My kids seem to be eating me out of house and home lately.
When I was heading into the store I noticed an older gentleman fiddling under the hood of his car.
I finished my shopping and headed back out to my car. The guy was still messing with his car and I could hear cuss words flying out from underneath the hood so I know thats not a good sign.
I asked him if he needed help! He signed and said yes...do you have jumper cables. I just happened to have a pair in my trunk. I told him yes and Id love to help him. His battery was dead and he couldnt figure out why.
I proceeded to move my car over near his so that we could get the deed done. We got his car started within the first few tries. The stern serious look on his face was gone, he was now smiling with relief. He thanked me a few times and offered me some money. I told him no thanks that I was just happuy that he was going to be able to go on his way!
He left with a smile and I think truthfully that he made my day more then I made his!
When I was heading into the store I noticed an older gentleman fiddling under the hood of his car.
I finished my shopping and headed back out to my car. The guy was still messing with his car and I could hear cuss words flying out from underneath the hood so I know thats not a good sign.
I asked him if he needed help! He signed and said yes...do you have jumper cables. I just happened to have a pair in my trunk. I told him yes and Id love to help him. His battery was dead and he couldnt figure out why.
I proceeded to move my car over near his so that we could get the deed done. We got his car started within the first few tries. The stern serious look on his face was gone, he was now smiling with relief. He thanked me a few times and offered me some money. I told him no thanks that I was just happuy that he was going to be able to go on his way!
He left with a smile and I think truthfully that he made my day more then I made his!
Mondays madness!
On Monday I was visiting my grandma. She lives in a neighborhood with mostly older people. She lives on a cul de sac so everyone is very close and knows everyone.
I had offered to help her take down her Christmas lights, with spring just around the corner I didnt think that it was appropriate that she still had them up.
The kids and I worked as a team and started peeling them all down. I noticed that a lady down the street needed quite a few things done around her yard. I started to ask my grandma about her. She told me she was recently widowed and all of her kids live out of state. My grandma said she was worried about things getting done around her house.
We both went down to talk to the lady. Her name was Ruth. She was a very thin and sweet. She offered my kids some cookies. We talked about it being time for the Christmas lights to come down. She said she was just thinking of leaving hers up all year long because her son wouldnt be in state for a visit until this summer. My kids and I offered to take them down for her. She first said no thanks but then with a smile said it would be great.
The kids and I went to work. She had some trash that the melting snow had uncovered in her yard. I put my youngest two kids to work on getting that picked up for her and my oldest and I started to work on her lights.
We got everything all done for her in a short amount of time. She was quite thrilled and offered us money when we were done. We told her no thank you. We loved helping her and told her that we would be back in a few weeks to see if she needed anything else done. Of course she gave my kids a few more cookies then we were on our way.
I had offered to help her take down her Christmas lights, with spring just around the corner I didnt think that it was appropriate that she still had them up.
The kids and I worked as a team and started peeling them all down. I noticed that a lady down the street needed quite a few things done around her yard. I started to ask my grandma about her. She told me she was recently widowed and all of her kids live out of state. My grandma said she was worried about things getting done around her house.
We both went down to talk to the lady. Her name was Ruth. She was a very thin and sweet. She offered my kids some cookies. We talked about it being time for the Christmas lights to come down. She said she was just thinking of leaving hers up all year long because her son wouldnt be in state for a visit until this summer. My kids and I offered to take them down for her. She first said no thanks but then with a smile said it would be great.
The kids and I went to work. She had some trash that the melting snow had uncovered in her yard. I put my youngest two kids to work on getting that picked up for her and my oldest and I started to work on her lights.
We got everything all done for her in a short amount of time. She was quite thrilled and offered us money when we were done. We told her no thank you. We loved helping her and told her that we would be back in a few weeks to see if she needed anything else done. Of course she gave my kids a few more cookies then we were on our way.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Sunday's lost child.
My son had a basketball tournament this weekend. It was your usual sweaty boys, lots of balls bouncing around, and anxious parents watching and waiting to see the outcome of their sons game.
We were in between games just hanging out wasting time until my son's next game started. I noticed in the corner there was a child that was crying. I looked around to see if anyone had seen the child hiding. I didnt see any adults that looked like they had a displaced child. I slowly started to work my way over the child. It was a little girl who was as cute as could be. Blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Tears were streaming down her face.
I asked her if she knew where her mommy was at. She shook her head no. I asked her how long she has been hiding back behind the bleachers...she shrugged her shoulders to say she didnt know. I told her that I will see if I could find her mommy. I asked her if she could remember what her mommy was wearing. She told me she was wearing a blue top. Of course as I started to look around I noticed only about 20 women who were wearing blue tops. I then suggested that maybe we should go to the front desk to see if maybe we could have her mom paged. She looked quite scared to go with but agreed.
We got to the front desk, and sure enough sitting at the front desk was her mom crying looking for her daughter as well!
The mom must have thanked me several times. The place was absolutely packed and she had already went through it twice looking for her daughter but was unable to find her. I am sure it was because she had decided to curl up in a ball behind the bleachers.
We were in between games just hanging out wasting time until my son's next game started. I noticed in the corner there was a child that was crying. I looked around to see if anyone had seen the child hiding. I didnt see any adults that looked like they had a displaced child. I slowly started to work my way over the child. It was a little girl who was as cute as could be. Blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Tears were streaming down her face.
I asked her if she knew where her mommy was at. She shook her head no. I asked her how long she has been hiding back behind the bleachers...she shrugged her shoulders to say she didnt know. I told her that I will see if I could find her mommy. I asked her if she could remember what her mommy was wearing. She told me she was wearing a blue top. Of course as I started to look around I noticed only about 20 women who were wearing blue tops. I then suggested that maybe we should go to the front desk to see if maybe we could have her mom paged. She looked quite scared to go with but agreed.
We got to the front desk, and sure enough sitting at the front desk was her mom crying looking for her daughter as well!
The mom must have thanked me several times. The place was absolutely packed and she had already went through it twice looking for her daughter but was unable to find her. I am sure it was because she had decided to curl up in a ball behind the bleachers.
Fridays May-Lay
My Friday didnt go as planned. I was scheduled for a class with my work. I was told that the class was supposed to start at 7:00am on the dot. I arrived promptly at 6:50hoping to be able to be a bit early to get a drink and get settled before the class started.
To my dismay when I got there the door to the classroom was locked. There was a chair that was nearby so I decided to occupy it until signs of life showed up to let me into the classroom. 7:00am came and went. 7:15am passed by as well. I started to get worried that maybe I was in the wrong place or had gotten the time wrong.
I started to make some phone calls on my cell phone to make sure that I was where I needed to be. While I was leaving messages for people to see if I had gotten confused on my information a lady passed by that had a towering stack of items on a table that she was trying to carefully push down the hallway. As she passed over every bump I could see her wincing and obviously praying that the items from her cat didnt go sailing into the air.
She made it nearly all the way down the hall to the elevator until she lost control. The cart went falling over onto its side. The items from the top went flying into the air. I could see the anger on her face.
I walked over to her and asked if she needed some help! The anger from her face disappeared and she replied "Yes, if you have the time that would be wonderful."
Her and I proceeded on picking up the items that were all over the floor. She actually had to take them 2 floors up. I told her she was trying to balance too much so I would be more then happy to help her take then to the destination! She was very happy for the help.
I helped her get them where they were supposed to be and then went back to the classroom where I was supposed to be. This time there was actually someone there and the room was open. They had told me to meet them in the wrong area so they had been waiting for me to show up somewhere else. I guess that I was meant to be where I was so that I could help her with her disaster and hopefully help to make her Friday better.
To my dismay when I got there the door to the classroom was locked. There was a chair that was nearby so I decided to occupy it until signs of life showed up to let me into the classroom. 7:00am came and went. 7:15am passed by as well. I started to get worried that maybe I was in the wrong place or had gotten the time wrong.
I started to make some phone calls on my cell phone to make sure that I was where I needed to be. While I was leaving messages for people to see if I had gotten confused on my information a lady passed by that had a towering stack of items on a table that she was trying to carefully push down the hallway. As she passed over every bump I could see her wincing and obviously praying that the items from her cat didnt go sailing into the air.
She made it nearly all the way down the hall to the elevator until she lost control. The cart went falling over onto its side. The items from the top went flying into the air. I could see the anger on her face.
I walked over to her and asked if she needed some help! The anger from her face disappeared and she replied "Yes, if you have the time that would be wonderful."
Her and I proceeded on picking up the items that were all over the floor. She actually had to take them 2 floors up. I told her she was trying to balance too much so I would be more then happy to help her take then to the destination! She was very happy for the help.
I helped her get them where they were supposed to be and then went back to the classroom where I was supposed to be. This time there was actually someone there and the room was open. They had told me to meet them in the wrong area so they had been waiting for me to show up somewhere else. I guess that I was meant to be where I was so that I could help her with her disaster and hopefully help to make her Friday better.
Thursdays Fun
Thursday was a rather low key day for us. We just hung around our house. We are still trying to battle off some sicknesses that have been hovering around my family so I didnt get out much.
I did get to Walmart to get some supplies. You know the usual sick supplies 7up, kleenexes, saltines, those sort of things.
I came across a young mom that was on her way to the car with the "balancing act" going that I have talked about. She had a kid on her hip, purse, and grocerings in hand. She was definitely struggling.
I did not have any of my kids with me. I offered to help her out. She just gave me this blank stare as if to say "Are you serious?". I smiled and stuck my hand out to take the bags from her.
She still was unsure what to think of me. She hesitated but did let me help her. She was quite happy. I told her that I had been in that position many times. Thinking the entire walk to the car "Why didnt I get a cart? Ugh, next time I am definitely getting a cart!".
She must have said "thank you" a hundred times! Just hearing that was enough to have me smiling the rest of the day!
I did get to Walmart to get some supplies. You know the usual sick supplies 7up, kleenexes, saltines, those sort of things.
I came across a young mom that was on her way to the car with the "balancing act" going that I have talked about. She had a kid on her hip, purse, and grocerings in hand. She was definitely struggling.
I did not have any of my kids with me. I offered to help her out. She just gave me this blank stare as if to say "Are you serious?". I smiled and stuck my hand out to take the bags from her.
She still was unsure what to think of me. She hesitated but did let me help her. She was quite happy. I told her that I had been in that position many times. Thinking the entire walk to the car "Why didnt I get a cart? Ugh, next time I am definitely getting a cart!".
She must have said "thank you" a hundred times! Just hearing that was enough to have me smiling the rest of the day!
Hump Day Happiness
My Wednesday was great! We actually spent the day helping out in a local low income daycare. My daughter and I went if you are wondering why I am saying "we".
They take volunteers in the afternoon on certain daysto help out with craft time and to give the teachers some much needed time for a break to help plan the curriculum and get other things done. We had so much fun with the kids.
I did take some time out of the "fun" to talk to the director about what other things that I could do. She had a list of supplies that they would love to get their hands on. I have another quest...to try to figure up a way to help her get some much needed supplies that are not in their budget. The wheels in my head are definitely turning!
They take volunteers in the afternoon on certain daysto help out with craft time and to give the teachers some much needed time for a break to help plan the curriculum and get other things done. We had so much fun with the kids.
I did take some time out of the "fun" to talk to the director about what other things that I could do. She had a list of supplies that they would love to get their hands on. I have another quest...to try to figure up a way to help her get some much needed supplies that are not in their budget. The wheels in my head are definitely turning!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Tuesdays deed!
Well I FINALLY got my opportunity to do something that I have been wanting to try out. I was leaving Hy-Vee and saw an elderly lady trying to balance two bags and get her keys out of her person. I walked up to her and asked her if she needed help. At first she looked at me just perplexed but then smiled and said that would be lovely.
I carried her bags to her car. She thanked me the entire way. She said no one has done anything that nice for her in a long time.
All I can say is MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Very happy with todays results!
I carried her bags to her car. She thanked me the entire way. She said no one has done anything that nice for her in a long time.
All I can say is MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Very happy with todays results!
Monday, March 1, 2010
My Interview
Anna and I decided to meet for a “lunch date” so that it was a relaxing atmosphere for my interview. We meet at Panera’s bread eatery in Jordan Creek mall. Anna is a very petite and beautiful lady. She is the type that just draws people to her with her smile and demeanor. She sits down and we start to talk. She’s very open from the get go which makes me excited to get started.
She has been a nurse for 6 years in Labor/Delivery and will be working as a midwife in a few months. She is very excited to embark on her new adventure. She tells me, “ I am ready to make a difference in these women’s lives and help to give these babies a good start to life.” She works for a hospital that handles many low income women. She offers them pamphlets regarding services that are available to them but wishes that she could do so much more. She tries to give them any hints and tips on what they can do to be sure that they giving themselves the best care while pregnant, all while being on a budget at the same time.
I explain my quest to her. I tell her that I want to make a difference in people’s life. I want to be able to make them stop and think about how they could help others . Maybe even to spread my generosity and kindness onto someone else in some shape or form. She thinks that my quest is going to be a difficult one, but thinks that I am going to learn a lot from this experience. I told her that learning was my main goal and I was hoping to maybe change the attitude of those around me at the same time. I told her that I was also hoping that this would rub onto my family so they could realize just how thankful they should be for what they have.
We started discussing what made Anna decide to choose this career. She starts to tell me about some things in her life. She met her husband while she was in high school, got pregnant, and married very young but was bound and determined to graduate from college. She says, “The minute that pregnancy test came back positive, it changed my life. “ She was bound and determined to make her dreams come true. She has me convinced that anyone not matter what the circumstances are, can do what they put their mind to. She worked very hard and had the support of her family. She just recently got her Masters degree in Nursing and feels she is living proof with the right support you can live out your dream. She is still married to the same man and has four beautiful children.
We start talking about ways that I am going to be able to help others out. We talk about just the simple things like paying for a coffee and holding the door open then start talking about other possibilities. She suggests feeding the homeless. She invited me to come to her church. Once a month members of her church gather together donated supplies and make meals for the homeless in Des Moines area. After they have made the meals then they load everything up and distribute them. She says, “It’s very rewarding. It seems odd but its something that I look forward to every month. I really enjoy talking with them and seeing the joy on their faces when they have a hot meal. ” I told her I would take her up on this offer. We discussed what kind of food is served. As she is talking a light bulb in my brain goes off. There is so many different ways that I can take this quest. It just depends on how much work I want to put into it and how dedicated I want to be.
She agrees that small things every day is a great goal for my quest but encourages me to do something on a bigger scale. She suggest a helping to do drives maybe weekly or to have a goal for every week. One week do a drive for the local animal shelter and the next collect supplies for feeling the homeless. She says there are so many people and animals in need that the possibilities are endless. She encouraged me to use my imagination. She then started to talk to me about Family to Family. Her family is involved with it and said she thought it would be a great thing for me and my family. I explained to her that I wanted to get my kids involved whenever I could. Family to Family is a nonprofit organization that connects two families together. One family here in the Midwest and then one in a poverty stricken area. Once a month I am given a grocery list of things to purchase and package up costing approximately $31.00. The package is then sent to a family who‘s annual salary is well below poverty level. She says they encourage the kids to include letters about their families and their lives. She said that its something her kids look forward to every month. She feels like it really helps her kids to realize that not everyone has what they need like our family.
She also suggests a few places where I can drop off my kids clothes that they have outgrown. She thinks it’s a great idea to have the kids help to pack them up and determine what can go to the needy kids. One of them is a local shelter for women who are involved in domestic abuse. She said many of these women have nothing but the clothes on their back when they leave their house. These women are trying to start a new life on their own and need all the help they can get.
As Anna talks about the things that she has been involved in I can see the sparkle in her eyes. I can tell that she is very proud of herself for being involved in making a difference, and I hope that once I am done with my quest that I will feel the same way! She really opened my eyes to a lot more possibilities for my quest. I definitely would not have thought of these things on my own. I am very happy that I decided to interview her. My brain was going a hundred miles a minute after our interview. She has planted a few seeds and now I just need to let them flourish to see what will become of them. I cant wait to get started on this quest.!
She has been a nurse for 6 years in Labor/Delivery and will be working as a midwife in a few months. She is very excited to embark on her new adventure. She tells me, “ I am ready to make a difference in these women’s lives and help to give these babies a good start to life.” She works for a hospital that handles many low income women. She offers them pamphlets regarding services that are available to them but wishes that she could do so much more. She tries to give them any hints and tips on what they can do to be sure that they giving themselves the best care while pregnant, all while being on a budget at the same time.
I explain my quest to her. I tell her that I want to make a difference in people’s life. I want to be able to make them stop and think about how they could help others . Maybe even to spread my generosity and kindness onto someone else in some shape or form. She thinks that my quest is going to be a difficult one, but thinks that I am going to learn a lot from this experience. I told her that learning was my main goal and I was hoping to maybe change the attitude of those around me at the same time. I told her that I was also hoping that this would rub onto my family so they could realize just how thankful they should be for what they have.
We started discussing what made Anna decide to choose this career. She starts to tell me about some things in her life. She met her husband while she was in high school, got pregnant, and married very young but was bound and determined to graduate from college. She says, “The minute that pregnancy test came back positive, it changed my life. “ She was bound and determined to make her dreams come true. She has me convinced that anyone not matter what the circumstances are, can do what they put their mind to. She worked very hard and had the support of her family. She just recently got her Masters degree in Nursing and feels she is living proof with the right support you can live out your dream. She is still married to the same man and has four beautiful children.
We start talking about ways that I am going to be able to help others out. We talk about just the simple things like paying for a coffee and holding the door open then start talking about other possibilities. She suggests feeding the homeless. She invited me to come to her church. Once a month members of her church gather together donated supplies and make meals for the homeless in Des Moines area. After they have made the meals then they load everything up and distribute them. She says, “It’s very rewarding. It seems odd but its something that I look forward to every month. I really enjoy talking with them and seeing the joy on their faces when they have a hot meal. ” I told her I would take her up on this offer. We discussed what kind of food is served. As she is talking a light bulb in my brain goes off. There is so many different ways that I can take this quest. It just depends on how much work I want to put into it and how dedicated I want to be.
She agrees that small things every day is a great goal for my quest but encourages me to do something on a bigger scale. She suggest a helping to do drives maybe weekly or to have a goal for every week. One week do a drive for the local animal shelter and the next collect supplies for feeling the homeless. She says there are so many people and animals in need that the possibilities are endless. She encouraged me to use my imagination. She then started to talk to me about Family to Family. Her family is involved with it and said she thought it would be a great thing for me and my family. I explained to her that I wanted to get my kids involved whenever I could. Family to Family is a nonprofit organization that connects two families together. One family here in the Midwest and then one in a poverty stricken area. Once a month I am given a grocery list of things to purchase and package up costing approximately $31.00. The package is then sent to a family who‘s annual salary is well below poverty level. She says they encourage the kids to include letters about their families and their lives. She said that its something her kids look forward to every month. She feels like it really helps her kids to realize that not everyone has what they need like our family.
She also suggests a few places where I can drop off my kids clothes that they have outgrown. She thinks it’s a great idea to have the kids help to pack them up and determine what can go to the needy kids. One of them is a local shelter for women who are involved in domestic abuse. She said many of these women have nothing but the clothes on their back when they leave their house. These women are trying to start a new life on their own and need all the help they can get.
As Anna talks about the things that she has been involved in I can see the sparkle in her eyes. I can tell that she is very proud of herself for being involved in making a difference, and I hope that once I am done with my quest that I will feel the same way! She really opened my eyes to a lot more possibilities for my quest. I definitely would not have thought of these things on my own. I am very happy that I decided to interview her. My brain was going a hundred miles a minute after our interview. She has planted a few seeds and now I just need to let them flourish to see what will become of them. I cant wait to get started on this quest.!
Today is a very exciting day! We are packing up our Family to Family items and will be dropping them off at the local chapter tomorrow.
The kids had alot of fun with this. I gave them the list, let them push the cart through Wal-Mart and even let them pick everything out. They were having fun doing it. Talking about maybe the kids really liked macaroni and cheese but not so much the vegetables just like they do.
Tonight they will be making letters to go with the package and then dropping them off.
We also discussed what some things may be like for these less fortunate kids and how much what we are doing will be helping them.
The kids had alot of fun with this. I gave them the list, let them push the cart through Wal-Mart and even let them pick everything out. They were having fun doing it. Talking about maybe the kids really liked macaroni and cheese but not so much the vegetables just like they do.
Tonight they will be making letters to go with the package and then dropping them off.
We also discussed what some things may be like for these less fortunate kids and how much what we are doing will be helping them.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Today I took my son to Chucke Cheese. It was a madhouse! There were kids running around everywhere. Of course all of the kids were having a blast.
There was a little boy that I was watching walk around. He was very cute but a bit dirty. He was wearing a birthday hat. He was running from game to game acting like he had never seen anything like that before.
His mom was following him around handing him tokens as fast as he was using them up. I noticed that he was crying and just did a bit of ease dropping. He was asking for more tokens, but his mother explained that they had already hit their budget and she couldnt afford any more. He was very upset. I felt bad for him. I had a whole pocket full of tokens and so did the kids that I was with, so I walked over and put some of the tokens in his hand. Telling him it was an extra birthday present. He was so excited. He smiled and ran off.
I know that he probably didnt really need to play more games but every kid deserves to be a spoiled a bit and the mom was trying to make it fun for him! Chucke Cheese is very expensive.
There was a little boy that I was watching walk around. He was very cute but a bit dirty. He was wearing a birthday hat. He was running from game to game acting like he had never seen anything like that before.
His mom was following him around handing him tokens as fast as he was using them up. I noticed that he was crying and just did a bit of ease dropping. He was asking for more tokens, but his mother explained that they had already hit their budget and she couldnt afford any more. He was very upset. I felt bad for him. I had a whole pocket full of tokens and so did the kids that I was with, so I walked over and put some of the tokens in his hand. Telling him it was an extra birthday present. He was so excited. He smiled and ran off.
I know that he probably didnt really need to play more games but every kid deserves to be a spoiled a bit and the mom was trying to make it fun for him! Chucke Cheese is very expensive.
Feeding the homeless yesterday was a SMASHING sucess. It was actually a lot of fun. I was a bit worried at first that I was going to be depressed afterwards, just because sometimes you dont realize how thankful you should be for what you have but I was pleased with the experience.
I was even luckier that the weather decided to cooperate. We handed out all the meals. I met a lot of very interesting people. We even had some donations of winter coats that we handed out as well. Three of them came from our closet. Ones that we just werent wearing any more.
I have already signed up for next months session to make the meals and pass them out. I really wonder why they only do it once a month. Hmm..its got me thinking maybe I can help to organize it so its done at least every week.
I was even luckier that the weather decided to cooperate. We handed out all the meals. I met a lot of very interesting people. We even had some donations of winter coats that we handed out as well. Three of them came from our closet. Ones that we just werent wearing any more.
I have already signed up for next months session to make the meals and pass them out. I really wonder why they only do it once a month. Hmm..its got me thinking maybe I can help to organize it so its done at least every week.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Its been a rough couple of days around here. The flu has hit our house. I am a bit behind with my blogging but doesn't mean that I havent done anything.
Yesterday was an exciting day. I was able to help a local church do their shopping for food that will be made on Saturday morning for homeless people. All of the money was donated and we were able to purchase enough to feed 40 people. I am sure that this isnt going to come close to what is needed but at least a few more people will have food in their bellies.
I will go to the church on Saturday and help to assemble the meals in the morning then we will spend the afternoon handing them out. I am very excited. I will keep everyone posted about it. Have a great day!
Yesterday was an exciting day. I was able to help a local church do their shopping for food that will be made on Saturday morning for homeless people. All of the money was donated and we were able to purchase enough to feed 40 people. I am sure that this isnt going to come close to what is needed but at least a few more people will have food in their bellies.
I will go to the church on Saturday and help to assemble the meals in the morning then we will spend the afternoon handing them out. I am very excited. I will keep everyone posted about it. Have a great day!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Today I got my list for my Family to Family--family! ;-)
Here is what I need to get by the end of the month.
4 cans soup 2 cans of beans
2 boxes mac and cheese 2 cans of vegetables
1 box regular rice 1 or 2 cans beef stew or beef hash
1 box of elbow macaroni
1 box tuna noodle helper or other meals in a box
1 large can of fruit (low in sugar)
2 cans of sloppy joes or something comparable
I did a little more research on how these families are selected for this program.
My local chapter goes to a community in Myra, Kentucky - Median annual family income in Myra (in 2000) was $7,679, compared to Indianola whose median family income is $52,238. 100% of the population of Myra lived below the poverty level in 2000 while in our city that figure is 5.6% of families. Many households have no car, and the closest grocery store or bank is a 30 minute drive away. There is no hospital, library, park, or recreational program for children.
This makes me very happy to know that I might be really making a difference in an area that needs it so badly.
I also have an aunt that is a paraplegic who is hospitalized in the ICU due to sepsis. I made her family a huge batch of homemade Parmesan chicken. They are under a great deal of stress right now and I wanted to make sure that they ate healthy.
Here is what I need to get by the end of the month.
4 cans soup 2 cans of beans
2 boxes mac and cheese 2 cans of vegetables
1 box regular rice 1 or 2 cans beef stew or beef hash
1 box of elbow macaroni
1 box tuna noodle helper or other meals in a box
1 large can of fruit (low in sugar)
2 cans of sloppy joes or something comparable
I did a little more research on how these families are selected for this program.
My local chapter goes to a community in Myra, Kentucky - Median annual family income in Myra (in 2000) was $7,679, compared to Indianola whose median family income is $52,238. 100% of the population of Myra lived below the poverty level in 2000 while in our city that figure is 5.6% of families. Many households have no car, and the closest grocery store or bank is a 30 minute drive away. There is no hospital, library, park, or recreational program for children.
This makes me very happy to know that I might be really making a difference in an area that needs it so badly.
I also have an aunt that is a paraplegic who is hospitalized in the ICU due to sepsis. I made her family a huge batch of homemade Parmesan chicken. They are under a great deal of stress right now and I wanted to make sure that they ate healthy.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Today I am home ill with the flu but thought I would post something to think about....this is by Ralph Allen called Brave Volunteers:
Scared, Cold, in pain,
the dust hasn't settled yet.
Pinned in, crying,
my clothes are ripped, red, and wet.
Lights, noise, and confusion,
all part of the night.
I'm going to die alone,
give up the fight.
Red lights are flashing,
mixing with blue.
A face appears at my window,
the face is you.
"You're gonna be all right"
is the first thing you say.
A reassuring voice,
someone wants me to stay.
You could have been home with family,
they need you too.
You worked all day at the job,
your sleeping hours numbered two.
But you went down the hall,
hoping your family is OK.
Now you're here with me and Death,
with comforting words to say.
No time for yourself,
no thought for your safety.
Later you may think,
your decision was hasty.
"Get the Jaws. Watch that gas;
Keep the people away.
Get his vitals, hose this down."
Some things I hear them say.
You stand in gas,
look in my window,
show no fear.
I look back at you knowing,
your voice is the last I'll ever hear.
I fade away as you hold me,
while holding back your tears.
Thank you for being there,
You Brave Volunteers.
Scared, Cold, in pain,
the dust hasn't settled yet.
Pinned in, crying,
my clothes are ripped, red, and wet.
Lights, noise, and confusion,
all part of the night.
I'm going to die alone,
give up the fight.
Red lights are flashing,
mixing with blue.
A face appears at my window,
the face is you.
"You're gonna be all right"
is the first thing you say.
A reassuring voice,
someone wants me to stay.
You could have been home with family,
they need you too.
You worked all day at the job,
your sleeping hours numbered two.
But you went down the hall,
hoping your family is OK.
Now you're here with me and Death,
with comforting words to say.
No time for yourself,
no thought for your safety.
Later you may think,
your decision was hasty.
"Get the Jaws. Watch that gas;
Keep the people away.
Get his vitals, hose this down."
Some things I hear them say.
You stand in gas,
look in my window,
show no fear.
I look back at you knowing,
your voice is the last I'll ever hear.
I fade away as you hold me,
while holding back your tears.
Thank you for being there,
You Brave Volunteers.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Today while running errands in Des Moines I saw a man who was rummaging through the garbage at the gas station. I watched him wondering if maybe he accidentally threw away something that he was supposed to keep. Then I realized that he was getting the cans out of the garbage can. Watching him do this made me so very sad. He was going from garbage can to garbage can. I sit in my car as it fills up wondering what circumstances brought him to where he is at in life.
I had a few cans in my car and walked over to him to give them to him. He must have thanked me 10 times for them. Once my car had filled up I started to drive off. My son and I were talking about it and how it must be terrible to be out in the cold in the middle of winter. My son had a hoodie in the car and asked if maybe he would want it. I told him it would be a great idea. I also had a $20 bill in my wallet. I told my son that we would give him both. So we pulled up besides him and gave him both. He kept asking what he could do to repay us. He wanted to to wash my windows on my car. I told him that we didnt want anything in return that I just wanted him to get himself a nice hot meal.
I have thought about that man all day long. I wonder if he goes to the homeless shelter. I just cant imagine what all he has been through. He was very worn and dirty. I just hope with the impending storm that he is able to find some shelter.
I had a few cans in my car and walked over to him to give them to him. He must have thanked me 10 times for them. Once my car had filled up I started to drive off. My son and I were talking about it and how it must be terrible to be out in the cold in the middle of winter. My son had a hoodie in the car and asked if maybe he would want it. I told him it would be a great idea. I also had a $20 bill in my wallet. I told my son that we would give him both. So we pulled up besides him and gave him both. He kept asking what he could do to repay us. He wanted to to wash my windows on my car. I told him that we didnt want anything in return that I just wanted him to get himself a nice hot meal.
I have thought about that man all day long. I wonder if he goes to the homeless shelter. I just cant imagine what all he has been through. He was very worn and dirty. I just hope with the impending storm that he is able to find some shelter.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Today is the beginning of the weekend. Im wondering who will come across my path this weekend. I am excited because tomorrow is my son's birthday and then Monday is my husbands. Should be a fun and exciting weekend!
Following the norm of this winter there was another 4 inches dumped on our town today. I am tired of this winter but took this as an opportunity to help out my fellow neighbors. I had the day off of work. The kids had the day off of school. So we bundled up and headed out to shovel out my neighbors to the north and south of our house. At first I was wondering what did I get myself into with this deed, but by the time we were done the mood had lightened and we were having fun. The kids were plummeting me with snowballs and we decided to make a nice snowman that stands proud and tall in front of our house.
The kids were thrilled with what we had accomplished. We came inside to warm our bones with some lovely hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. While we were enjoying our treat the doorbell rang. It was my neighbor. She brought us over a fresh batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies. It went very well with our hot chocolate. By the time we were done we all had a smile on our face and it felt great to get the exercise and to have my neighbors coming home to shoveled driveways!
Following the norm of this winter there was another 4 inches dumped on our town today. I am tired of this winter but took this as an opportunity to help out my fellow neighbors. I had the day off of work. The kids had the day off of school. So we bundled up and headed out to shovel out my neighbors to the north and south of our house. At first I was wondering what did I get myself into with this deed, but by the time we were done the mood had lightened and we were having fun. The kids were plummeting me with snowballs and we decided to make a nice snowman that stands proud and tall in front of our house.
The kids were thrilled with what we had accomplished. We came inside to warm our bones with some lovely hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. While we were enjoying our treat the doorbell rang. It was my neighbor. She brought us over a fresh batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies. It went very well with our hot chocolate. By the time we were done we all had a smile on our face and it felt great to get the exercise and to have my neighbors coming home to shoveled driveways!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Today while getting lunch at the cafeteria where I work. I was standing in line next to an older lady. I am not good at guessing ages but I am going to guess 60's. She was smiling from ear to ear. The line was quite long so I started to talk to her. She started to tell me how it was her 10 year anniversary working at Iowa Health Systems. She was very proud of this. I was curious as to why 10 years was so special to her. She continued to tell me that she was a breast cancer survivor and didnt think that she was going to make it to 5 years, little lone 10 years. She had a smile from ear to ear. I told her that I wanted to buy her lunch for such an amazing anniversary. She said no at first but then I insisted. She ended up letting me and thanked me. We ended up sitting together and having lunch. She continued to tell me about how she took a cruise for the first time as a gift to herself for surviving breast cancer. She was a very interesting lady and I hope that I run into her again.
I couldnt stop thinking about her after lunch. I basically thought about her all afternoon. I guess you dont really stop to realize just how thankful you should be for such simple things as health.
I couldnt stop thinking about her after lunch. I basically thought about her all afternoon. I guess you dont really stop to realize just how thankful you should be for such simple things as health.
Monday, February 15, 2010
My Personal Quest.
Have you ever sat back and watched people bustling about? Where is everyone going? Why is everyone running from one thing to the next? When did we forget to take the time to notice those around us? What would a complete stranger do if you helped them carry their groceries to the car? What about if you paid for their coffee or help them picked up dropped items. This is going to be my daily challenge. Find one person that I can go above and beyond for and see what their reaction is. Think I can do it? Come with me along for my journey.
When was the last time that you had someone do something for you that made you think "Wow, they really went out of their way for me." I have to admit that I can't remember the last time I felt this way. I have decided that I want to be the person that makes another say that because I went out of my way to help them when they needed it. Maybe it will inspire them to "pay it forward" and brighten the next person's life that they come across. How challenging is this going to be? I have 30 days to find out!
I have been in the position many times where I have had a child on my hip and a hand full of groceries. Trying my hardest to keep my balancing act going so I don't drop the child or overfilled bags, only to have the person in front of me not even take a second to hold the door open for me. I am then having the door slam in my face and struggle to keep my juggling act going. Is it really that hard to hold the door? It makes me think am I guilty of this? Do I really just pretend like the person behind me is not there? Do I hold the door open?
I have always tried to raise my kids to treat others as you would like to be treated, but am I two faced when it comes to this? Do I help the person next to me as much as I would like to be helped? I think this quest is going to really open my eyes and hopefully anyone who comes across my path during my quest. I am hoping to show my kids that as little as 2 minutes of your day helping someone out could really make the difference in your day and even more for theirs. I know in this day and age you are taught not to talk to strangers and there are a lot of weirdos out there, but there are lots of decent people that you come in contact with every day. These people don't deserve to be ignored just as you don't deserve to be ignored. They are just as busy and important as you are. So there no reason to pretend like they aren't there.
People seemed to be hurried all the time and try to act like they don't have time for the person next to them. Do you think that if I were to go out of my way helping them with paying for their coffee or carrying their groceries will it inspire them to do the same for someone else? The goal of my personal quest is to make an impact on someone every day so maybe they will stop and say wow maybe I need to start paying attention to what I am doing and the others around me.
I know that I am just as guilty as the next person. I work full time, am a full time student, and a mother of three kids, so my time is precious but I don't want to forget that I am not the only person in the world. Since my time is very limited, I spend my day very planned out running from one thing on my agenda to the next. Very rarely stopping to take notice as to what is going on around me. I want to stop this cycle. I am taking classes to fulfill my lifelong dream of being a nurse. Who wants a nurse that isn't helpful or willing to go out of her way? I think that this quest is going to help me be the best nurse that I can be, not to mention the best neighbor, mother, sister, and wife as well.
I want to be able to make an impact on my whole family even my sisters, mother, husband, and kids. If they see me going out of my way maybe they will follow suit. I want to expose a more generous and caring side to everyone. I want my family to know that it is okay to stop what you are doing and help someone out. I don't want to raise kids who think they are the center of the universe. Maybe if everyone does a personal quest of this sort that it will help to change the world. I am probably dreaming a bit there, but what happens with it is to be discovered.
With my quest I am going to try to be inventive and do something different every day. I am going to try to pick different platforms where to do my quest at too. It could be at the grocery store, at a DMACC campus, at the dentist's office. Just basically any place that I see an opportunity to do something to make a difference to their day. I am sure that I am going to get mixed responses, but I hoping that I am going to get lots of smiles. A smile or a “thank you” is all it is doing to take for me to know that I have accomplished my personal quest. I want to make them happy and make them feel like not everyone is too hurried and rushed to notice that they are struggling and could use a bit of help.
I have always been someone who naturally wants to help other people such as charities, but felt that I didn't really have the money to make a REAL difference. I recently saw the movie “Pay It Forward” and it got me thinking that really I can do so much for the people that I come into contact with on a daily basis. It made me realize that you don't have to do things on a big scale that just a little bit of my time could potentially make a difference. I am hoping to open the eyes of the person I am helping and those around me as well. Show them that the little things in life really do count. I hope to accomplish a sense of happiness because I was able to assist someone who didn't expect it. Along the way I hope to change my own attitude that yes I do have 5 minutes to help my neighbor shovel her driveway. If I do this quest properly then it is going to be win-win situation for everyone.
I think the most challenging part of this may be approaching people as I can tend to be a bit shy. This personal quest is going to take me going outside of my personal realm to get it accomplished. I also think that getting people to let me help them in some occasions may be be difficult as well. They may not want my help or think that I am going to expect something in return. I could also have days where I don't particularly come across someone who needs my help. In this instance I am going to have to use my imagination. I think that this quest is going to really challenge me but in a good way. It will make me use my compassion, imagination, personality, and my people skills.
My rules with the quest are going to be to do at least one nice thing everyday. I am going to try to involve my family whenever I can. I am going to try to do something different every day and try to choose someone from every age group. I want to see how a younger person may react to my help compared to an elderly person. I want to be able to see which one is more appreciative. I have a feeling that there is going to be a huge difference in reactions and am excited to see the results.
I will be blogging every day about the person I helped, what I did, what they said, and what their reaction was after. I am also going to record what it felt like when I helped them out. I imagine with some people it might be a bit harder to help because they may just think that I am weird, but I am hoping for mostly positive responses. Enough positive responses to keep this quest going for the rest of my life. I don't want to get back into my slump of running the rat race and forgetting about everyone around me.
I think this quest is significant because I am hoping to change my daily life and the way some people think. I know that humans overall are giving people but I think that it takes a major crisis for us to show our caring side, such as the Haiti earthquake. Many people are being giving and generous to help out the injured or survivors of a natural disaster, but what about the regular people they come in contact with on a daily basis? I am sure that a mom who has had a terrible day, just getting off of work and at the store picking up dinner for her family would really appreciate having someone help her carry her groceries to the car. I need to get in the mindset of thinking it is just 2 minutes out of my day to make her smile and let her know that shes not invisible. She works just as hard as I do so why doesn't she deserve a little bit of my time? I hope that this will make her happy and make her evening even more enjoyable.
My goal with my blogs is to show all of the classmates how my quest has gone and what impact it has made on me and my family. I want to show everyone that, yes it is possible to do things for people that we don't know and just how much it can mean to do something very small for a person. Who knows I just might even inspire some of my classmates to start making an effort to go out of their way to help someone they don't know. I know the film “Pay It Forward” started a movement of its own. Maybe I will be so lucky as to start something as grand.
I am very excited to get started with my quest and wondering what sort of an adventure and impact it will be for me. I wonder if it will be something that I will be able to continue the rest of my life. I guess any change is better, even if I am not able to do something nice every day of the week. At least I can change myself enough if I see someone in need that I am able to stop what I am doing to help them out. Not worrying if I am going to have 5 minutes less to watch the shows that I TIVO-ed. Maybe it will even change me enough to rub off onto my family. I can only dream right now but hoping to turn that dream into a reality. I am ready, willing, and excited to embark in this quest and anxious for the results. I hope to be able to make an impact on many people with my quest.
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