Back in the Habit

So July, August and October weren't the best months for volunteering. I'm 'counting' the 3 Day as my activity for September ... I think walking 60 miles and raising nearly $6000 is good enough for one month!

I'm excited, Lynette and I scheduled our next TWO volunteer activities for November. On Monday, we are going to volunteer with Eastside Baby Center, sorting and organizing baby donations. Then on Tuesday the 25th, we'll be working at the Salvation Army Food Bank, helping with food distribution.

Now that I'm done with school and training, I'd like to get involved in more volunteering. If you know of any organizations in need of assistance - please let me know!

May 2008: Girls on the Run

For the May charity, I helped my friend Laura, who was on the decoration committe for the annual Girls on the Run fundraising auction.

Girls on the Run is an organization that pairs preteen girls with runner coaches, with a mission "to educate and prepare girls for a lifetime of healthy living." The girls and their coaches train for a local 5k, as well as go through a 12 week program that develop leadership skills. The program works to develop the girls' confidence and self-esteem: something all preteen girls need!!

Laura had done most of the work by the time I arrived at the facility, so I helped a bit with the balloons - and then we were able to grab a glass of wine and check out the auction items. I was quickly outbid, so didn't walk away with anything, other than the satisfaction of helping another great local organization.

How it began

In December 2007, Lynette and I spent a couple hours wrapping gifts for The Forgotten Children's Fund. I had heard about the FCF from the ZTA Alumnae - it was a perfect way to help out during a season of giving.

We had a great time, wrapping gifts and gabbing, it was easy enough. And we were helping out someone else in the process! Lynette then had the idea that it would be fun to do a regular basis. So the Volunteer '08 Project began: we would find a different charity to work with each month, working with a variety of non-profits in the area who needed our help. Just one day a month, but the rewards would be priceless.

We immediately started brainstorming: Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, the Humane Society. And we were off and committed!

Inspired...

This afternoon, my mentor Cynthia recommended I start a blog, explaining my 2008 Volunteer Challenge: to work with a different non-profit each month.

I was instantly inspired and look forward to providing more information on the challenge I've undertaken this year with my friend Lynette.

12 months, 12+ charities, and 1 life-changing experience... more info to come!