December of Giving

So I know it has been quite a while.  I took a short break from volunteering in October, took a vacation, relaxed and tried to decide what I wanted to do next.  I received a letter in the mail saying my "adopted" soldier in Afghanistan was returning to home.  How nice for him to be home in time for the holidays.  How exciting!  Before committing to another soldier, I decided to look into a few other organizations that helped military families.  Although I have found several, I haven't decided which the next one should be. 

I also wrapped up the horse therapy program before leaving for vacation.  My team at work even volunteered there one afternoon cleaning out stalls and polishing saddles, bridles and reigns.  It definitely wasn't for everyone, but I was right at home in the barn. 

So what was next?  Over the summer I had found an article in a magazine about a free tennis program in Minneapolis called Inner City Tennis.  I had played tennis in high school but hadn't really gotten back on the courts much since.  I wanted to.  I even bought myself a cheap $20 racquet at Target.  I contacted Inner City Tennis and decided to start volunteering there once I returned from vacation.  Every Saturday, tons of kids get together and play tennis.  It is run mostly by volunteers and all kids are welcome.  I decided to volunteer with 7-11 year olds.  I figured since I haven't hit the courts in almost a decade, it would be smart starting with that age group.  I have been doing it for about a month now and it is by far my favorite place to volunteer so far.  It has reignited my love for tennis.  It is great to see these kids who come from all over to learn the sport I love.  It's all about fun for these kids.  Although we teach them the basics of tennis and sportsmanship, the main goal is to have fun while promoting activity.  Each session begins with high fives and cheers and ends with a healthy snack.  Even the racquets are provided at no charge.  It proves that you don't have to be rich to play sports.  The more I volunteer, the more I realize how many great organizations there are that provide free or low cost sports for kids all over.  The other thing that I love about Inner City Tennis is that it requires its Junior participants to volunteer with the younger kids.  So every week with the "coaches", teenagers learn how important it is to give back to the program that has given to them.  My first day I was even asked if I was a junior volunteer.  I guess I still look like I am under 18.  Oh well, it sure is fun being a kid again (or being with them).  And I am slowly getting my tennis skills back!

http://www.innercitytennis.org/

In the spirit of Christmas, I couldn't stop at just one volunteer program.  The whole point of this is to try many.  I actually think it is contagious.  Nothing makes me happier than finding a worthy organization to volunteer with or donate to.  It's why I have to donate money every time I buy my dog food.  I can't say no to homeless pets.  It's the same reason I can't pass a red kettle from the Salvation Army without putting a dollar in it.  Well this year, my family did one better.  My sister organized an afternoon of bell ringing for us, and as you know, standing outside for two hours in the cold Minnesota winter isn't exactly fun.  But who can say no to five young people trying to get people to donate.  So with many layers and hot chocolate in our hands, we made an afternoon out of it.  We shouted "Merry Christmas" to everyone that walked by.  Some ignored us, some thanked us, and plenty of people donated.  It was great to see how many kids ask their parents for change so they can put something in the kettle.  Think of how many great volunteers and humanitarians are being born out of giving money to the kettle.  If we are taught at an early age how great it is to give back, no matter how big or small, imagine what can be accomplished. 


https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=206


If you know me, you know how much I love toys.  I love looking at them, picking them out, and even playing with them.  So what if I am thirty.  Picking out toys at Christmas for kids who possibly might not get any is my favorite thing.  Toys for Tots has been around as long as I can remember and every year I always try to pick one out.  This year, after watching the news every night and seeing how many people donate time, money and toys, I couldn't say no.  After a full day of Christmas shopping with my mom and spending way too much, we both agreed we would finish the day by buying a toy for a kid.  We made our way to Target and walked aisle by aisle to try and find the perfect toy.  We found some Fisher Price toys that reminded me of my childhood.  A childhood that was filled with toys.  I used to set up a village in our porch and play for days.  In the village, there was also a bus.  I found this bus at Target - after all these years they still make this Playskool bus.  It made me so happy to imagine another kid getting to play with a toy just like the one I played with.  This is an organization that I plan on giving to for a very long time.

http://www.toysfortots.org/default.asp


I wake up every day thinking about how lucky I am.  It might sound corny or cheesy, but I can't help to think what a fantastic family I have.  I see them at least once a week, usually more.  I spend every Sunday night with them around the dinner table.  I work at an office with my dad and sister.  Of course we all get our fill, but I can't imagine not spending this much time with them.  I am lucky to be a part of a big family and with three sisters comes built in friends.  I don't have to go far to find them.  Christmas really is about family.  Everyone likes getting gifts, but I love being able to spend even more time with my family.  During this holiday season, I hope everyone can spend time with their family and if they can, give back to someone who isn't as lucky.  There are so many worthy organizations to pick from.  Pick one that fits your interests!  You won't be disappointed.  You will walk away with a smile knowing you made a difference in some one's life.  Chances are they will make a difference in your life too.

For volunteer opportunities in your area, check out this website:

www.volunteermatch.org

More to come soon...Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
M