Boys Town
Boys Town was founded on one simple belief: that every child has the inherent potential to succeed, no matter what his or her circumstances. So, we strive to help every child, from those who may simply be struggling or in doubt to those who are in need of the most severe behavioral care. We strive to reunite children with their families whenever possible, or give them the skills and foundation they need to build a life on their own as caring, responsible adults.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Day 36
Summer Search
The mission of Summer Search is to find resilient low-income high school students and inspire them to become responsible and altruistic leaders by providing year-round mentoring, life-changing summer experiences, college advising, and a lasting support network.
Summer Search changes the odds for low-income youth and ensures they succeed in school and in life. In 2010 across our network of seven locations:
As important as their success in school, Summer Search expects youth to give back and become leaders. In 2010 over 80% of Summer Search high school students engaged in their communities with 24 or more community service hours.
The mission of Summer Search is to find resilient low-income high school students and inspire them to become responsible and altruistic leaders by providing year-round mentoring, life-changing summer experiences, college advising, and a lasting support network.
Summer Search changes the odds for low-income youth and ensures they succeed in school and in life. In 2010 across our network of seven locations:
- 99% of Summer Search seniors graduated high school
- 95% of seniors went to post-secondary education, including 93% to college
- 85% of students in post-secondary are on track to graduate
As important as their success in school, Summer Search expects youth to give back and become leaders. In 2010 over 80% of Summer Search high school students engaged in their communities with 24 or more community service hours.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Day 35
Shoes That Fit
Going barefoot in the summer is one thing. Doing it all year long – or having to wear worn out, mismatched or poor fitting shoes every day throughout the year is something else entirely. It destroys self esteem. It degrades and depresses. It makes going to school embarrassing and almost impossible.
It’s also why Shoes That Fit was born. Because studies show that properly fitting shoes can enhance self confidence in school-children and boost their development and overall growth. That’s a lot to get from a simple pair of shoes, but we see it work in the lives of precious children every day!
With shoes that fit, kids fit too – into their schools, into their social networks and into lives with hope and dreams.
Today, Shoes That Fit is helping children in need in thousands of schools across America. Hundreds of thousands of new shoes and other items have been given out and that number is growing rapidly.
Going barefoot in the summer is one thing. Doing it all year long – or having to wear worn out, mismatched or poor fitting shoes every day throughout the year is something else entirely. It destroys self esteem. It degrades and depresses. It makes going to school embarrassing and almost impossible.
It’s also why Shoes That Fit was born. Because studies show that properly fitting shoes can enhance self confidence in school-children and boost their development and overall growth. That’s a lot to get from a simple pair of shoes, but we see it work in the lives of precious children every day!
With shoes that fit, kids fit too – into their schools, into their social networks and into lives with hope and dreams.
Today, Shoes That Fit is helping children in need in thousands of schools across America. Hundreds of thousands of new shoes and other items have been given out and that number is growing rapidly.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Day 34
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp
Our friend Holly has pointed us towards today's wonderful charity.
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp is dedicated to providing “a different kind of healing” to seriously ill children and their families throughout the Northeast, free of charge. It’s a community that celebrates the fun, friendship and spirit of childhood where every kid can “raise a little hell.”
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was founded in 1988 by Paul Newman with one simple premise in mind, that every child, no matter their illness, could experience the transformational spirit and friendships that go hand in hand with camp.
Our friend Holly has pointed us towards today's wonderful charity.
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp is dedicated to providing “a different kind of healing” to seriously ill children and their families throughout the Northeast, free of charge. It’s a community that celebrates the fun, friendship and spirit of childhood where every kid can “raise a little hell.”
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was founded in 1988 by Paul Newman with one simple premise in mind, that every child, no matter their illness, could experience the transformational spirit and friendships that go hand in hand with camp.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Day 33
Big Brothers Big Sisters
With the help of a network of donors, partners, family members, and advocates, Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully matches at-risk youths with caring, adult role models. Research proves that children enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol.
With the help of a network of donors, partners, family members, and advocates, Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully matches at-risk youths with caring, adult role models. Research proves that children enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Day 32
Children's Cancer Association
We're especially excited about finding today's charity and you're about to read why :-)
When seriously ill children and their families need more than medicine, CCA's innovative programs create joy one moment at a time. The Children’s Cancer Association didn’t start with a foundation, it started with a family. One who faced its own battle with serious pediatric illness almost two decades ago in Portland, Oregon. From that experience came a passionate commitment and focus: To deliver the resources, the friendship and the healing power of music to families facing the same challenges.
We prescribe joy.
For children diagnosed with serious illness and their families, every moment is precious. At CCA, our goal is to transform as many of those moments as possible — with joy.
Why joy?
Because in the fight against devastating illness, joy is often forgotten. Because joy connects us with the power of hope, comfort, and happiness and helps families and children feel uplifted when their lives have been turned upside down. Because joy is something every child deserves.
One of their programs is called MusicRx. You can read more about it and also take a look at their Amazon Wish List.
We're especially excited about finding today's charity and you're about to read why :-)
When seriously ill children and their families need more than medicine, CCA's innovative programs create joy one moment at a time. The Children’s Cancer Association didn’t start with a foundation, it started with a family. One who faced its own battle with serious pediatric illness almost two decades ago in Portland, Oregon. From that experience came a passionate commitment and focus: To deliver the resources, the friendship and the healing power of music to families facing the same challenges.
We prescribe joy.
For children diagnosed with serious illness and their families, every moment is precious. At CCA, our goal is to transform as many of those moments as possible — with joy.
Why joy?
Because in the fight against devastating illness, joy is often forgotten. Because joy connects us with the power of hope, comfort, and happiness and helps families and children feel uplifted when their lives have been turned upside down. Because joy is something every child deserves.
One of their programs is called MusicRx. You can read more about it and also take a look at their Amazon Wish List.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Day 31
Lily Sarah Grace Fund
1 year ago today 9 year old Lily, and her 7 year old twin sisters Sarah and Grace, lost their lives in a fire. Their father, Matthew Badger, started the Lily Sarah Grace Fund to honor their lives and to support the arts in elementary schools.
Mission: To challenge and empower teachers in underfunded elementary schools across the United States to teach their curriculum through the universal language of Art and Creativity.
The Lily Sarah Grace Fund has made a tremendous impact across the country funding arts projects.
1 year ago today 9 year old Lily, and her 7 year old twin sisters Sarah and Grace, lost their lives in a fire. Their father, Matthew Badger, started the Lily Sarah Grace Fund to honor their lives and to support the arts in elementary schools.
Mission: To challenge and empower teachers in underfunded elementary schools across the United States to teach their curriculum through the universal language of Art and Creativity.
The Lily Sarah Grace Fund has made a tremendous impact across the country funding arts projects.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Day 30
Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation
Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott (1996-2004). In 2000, 4-year-old Alex announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. Since Alex held that first stand, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement, complete with thousands of supporters across the country carrying on her legacy of hope.
Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott (1996-2004). In 2000, 4-year-old Alex announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. Since Alex held that first stand, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement, complete with thousands of supporters across the country carrying on her legacy of hope.
- To raise money and awareness of childhood cancer causes, primarily research into new treatments and cures.
- To encourage and empower others, especially children, to get involved and make a difference for children with cancer.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Day 29
Save the Children
Save the Children serves impoverished, marginalized and vulnerable children and families in more than 120 nations. Our programs reach both children and those working to save and improve their lives, including parents, caregivers, community members and members of our partner organizations. We help save children’s lives, protect them from exploitation and assist them in accessing education and health care.
Through disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, rapid humanitarian relief and long-term recovery programs, Save the Children also assists millions of girls and boys at risk of or affected by natural disasters, conflicts and ethnic violence.
One of their programs is called HEART (Healing and Education through the Arts). Here's a video for that program that makes us smile every time :-)
Save the Children serves impoverished, marginalized and vulnerable children and families in more than 120 nations. Our programs reach both children and those working to save and improve their lives, including parents, caregivers, community members and members of our partner organizations. We help save children’s lives, protect them from exploitation and assist them in accessing education and health care.
Through disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, rapid humanitarian relief and long-term recovery programs, Save the Children also assists millions of girls and boys at risk of or affected by natural disasters, conflicts and ethnic violence.
One of their programs is called HEART (Healing and Education through the Arts). Here's a video for that program that makes us smile every time :-)
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Day 28
Children's Aid and Family Services
I volunteered some of my time this past summer with this organization that serves my area of NJ.
Children's Aid and Family Services preserves, protects and, when needed, provides families. Motivated by compassion for vulnerable children, young adults, frail elderly and their families, we provide high quality and innovative services that meet their social, educational and emotional needs.
We believe that vulnerable and wounded children, as well as all human beings, have the capacity to learn, to heal, and to grow. We believe that interdependent relationships that practice and teach mutual respect, responsibility, honesty and permanency play an integral and powerful role in a person's growth and development at all stages of life. Furthermore, we believe that self-sufficiency is intrinsic to human dignity and to society's health and prosperity.
I volunteered some of my time this past summer with this organization that serves my area of NJ.
Children's Aid and Family Services preserves, protects and, when needed, provides families. Motivated by compassion for vulnerable children, young adults, frail elderly and their families, we provide high quality and innovative services that meet their social, educational and emotional needs.
We believe that vulnerable and wounded children, as well as all human beings, have the capacity to learn, to heal, and to grow. We believe that interdependent relationships that practice and teach mutual respect, responsibility, honesty and permanency play an integral and powerful role in a person's growth and development at all stages of life. Furthermore, we believe that self-sufficiency is intrinsic to human dignity and to society's health and prosperity.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Day 27
Canines for Disabled Kids
Today we bring you another charity suggested by our friend Ellen. We'll just simply suggest that you read through some of their success stories that will warm your heart and spirit :-)
Today we bring you another charity suggested by our friend Ellen. We'll just simply suggest that you read through some of their success stories that will warm your heart and spirit :-)
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Day 26
Children's Organ Transplant Association
As I was watching the Giants play on Sunday I saw a message about Fox Sports supporting this organization for the 2012 football season.
COTA exists to assist patients who require a life-saving organ, bone marrow, cord blood or stem cell transplant. COTA works with any patient who needs a transplant due to a genetic disease such as Cystic Fibrosis or Sickle Cell Anemia, and all patients 21 and under for any disease complication. COTA guides the family and their volunteers through every necessary fundraising step, including organizing and training the campaign committee; planning successful events and activities; working with the media; and finding multiple sources of funding.
As I was watching the Giants play on Sunday I saw a message about Fox Sports supporting this organization for the 2012 football season.
COTA exists to assist patients who require a life-saving organ, bone marrow, cord blood or stem cell transplant. COTA works with any patient who needs a transplant due to a genetic disease such as Cystic Fibrosis or Sickle Cell Anemia, and all patients 21 and under for any disease complication. COTA guides the family and their volunteers through every necessary fundraising step, including organizing and training the campaign committee; planning successful events and activities; working with the media; and finding multiple sources of funding.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Day 25
Locks of Love
Our friend Ellen gave us another wonderful suggestion for a charity that supports children.
Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses we provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.
Our friend Ellen gave us another wonderful suggestion for a charity that supports children.
Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses we provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Day 24
The Children's Aid Society
Growing up in NJ I always knew about this organization, but more on that later :-)
The Children’s Aid Society helps children in poverty to succeed and thrive. Today Children’s Aid serves New York's neediest children and their families at more than 45 locations in the five boroughs and Westchester County. Our caring begins even before birth, through prenatal counseling and assistance, and continues through the high school years with college and job preparatory training programs. All aspects of a child’s development are addressed as he or she grows, from health care to academics to sports and the arts. And because stable children live in stable families, a host of services are available to parents, including housing assistance, domestic violence counseling and health care access.
As a kid I remember seeing the following commercial many times. If you want a lesson on a catchy jingle look no further. To this day I still remember the tune and most of the lyrics! So this was definitely an effective campaign, albeit it took 30+ years before paying dividends for the charity ;-)
Growing up in NJ I always knew about this organization, but more on that later :-)
The Children’s Aid Society helps children in poverty to succeed and thrive. Today Children’s Aid serves New York's neediest children and their families at more than 45 locations in the five boroughs and Westchester County. Our caring begins even before birth, through prenatal counseling and assistance, and continues through the high school years with college and job preparatory training programs. All aspects of a child’s development are addressed as he or she grows, from health care to academics to sports and the arts. And because stable children live in stable families, a host of services are available to parents, including housing assistance, domestic violence counseling and health care access.
As a kid I remember seeing the following commercial many times. If you want a lesson on a catchy jingle look no further. To this day I still remember the tune and most of the lyrics! So this was definitely an effective campaign, albeit it took 30+ years before paying dividends for the charity ;-)
Monday, December 17, 2012
Day 23
Ronald McDonald House Charities
Our friend Ellen sent us today's suggestion and we couldn't be more pleased to support such a wonderful organization.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide families stability and resources so they can keep their child healthy and happy. Whether those problems involve how to stay near and support a hospitalized child, how to afford staying together in another city while a child is undergoing treatment, or even getting basic medical and dental care in a vulnerable community.
Our friend Ellen sent us today's suggestion and we couldn't be more pleased to support such a wonderful organization.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide families stability and resources so they can keep their child healthy and happy. Whether those problems involve how to stay near and support a hospitalized child, how to afford staying together in another city while a child is undergoing treatment, or even getting basic medical and dental care in a vulnerable community.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Day 22
United Way of Western Connecticut
United Way of Western Connecticut in partnership with Newtown Savings Bank has created the 'Sandy Hook School Support Fund' that will be able to provide support services to the families and community that has been affected.
United Way of Western Connecticut in partnership with Newtown Savings Bank has created the 'Sandy Hook School Support Fund' that will be able to provide support services to the families and community that has been affected.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Friday, December 14, 2012
Day 20
Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana
We heard that the incredible Harshman Band is heading over to Gleaners today to volunteer. How terrific! Thank you for helping with the fight against hunger. Have an inspirational day today! Since we can't join you we've done our small part in making a donation in your honor today :-)
We heard that the incredible Harshman Band is heading over to Gleaners today to volunteer. How terrific! Thank you for helping with the fight against hunger. Have an inspirational day today! Since we can't join you we've done our small part in making a donation in your honor today :-)
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Day 19
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Having just returned from another wonderful evening enjoying the NY Philharmonic, I realized how lucky I am to be able to live in the NY/NJ area and be able to attend their concerts. Not everyone lives close enough to a big city that has a major orchestra that they can enjoy. But even where you may live near enough to a big city to enjoy your local orchestra, that's no guarantee your local orchestra will be playing.
With that thought in mind I decided to make today's donation to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. This orchestra had to cancel several of its concerts at the start of the season because it couldn't meet its obligations to its musicians. That of course left the residents of Indiana without a place to enjoy amazing music. I know how devastated I would be if that happened in NY.
Having just returned from another wonderful evening enjoying the NY Philharmonic, I realized how lucky I am to be able to live in the NY/NJ area and be able to attend their concerts. Not everyone lives close enough to a big city that has a major orchestra that they can enjoy. But even where you may live near enough to a big city to enjoy your local orchestra, that's no guarantee your local orchestra will be playing.
With that thought in mind I decided to make today's donation to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. This orchestra had to cancel several of its concerts at the start of the season because it couldn't meet its obligations to its musicians. That of course left the residents of Indiana without a place to enjoy amazing music. I know how devastated I would be if that happened in NY.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Day 18
Cite Soleil Music School, Haiti
Local Haitians founded the Cite Soleil Music School in 2006 as an alternative to the violence that has ravaged Cite Soleil, with the philosophy of replacing weapons in the hands of children with musical instruments, using music to foster peace in Haitian communities...The Music School, directed towards creative opportunities and productive reflections, offers youth a safe community space for growth through music.
Want more inspiration? Check out this trailer: Cite Soleil School of Music Trailer
Local Haitians founded the Cite Soleil Music School in 2006 as an alternative to the violence that has ravaged Cite Soleil, with the philosophy of replacing weapons in the hands of children with musical instruments, using music to foster peace in Haitian communities...The Music School, directed towards creative opportunities and productive reflections, offers youth a safe community space for growth through music.
Want more inspiration? Check out this trailer: Cite Soleil School of Music Trailer
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Day 17
Fisher House
Today's donation is another suggestion from our friend Dana.
The Fisher House program provides a "home away from home" for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Annually, the Fisher House program serves more than 17,000 families, and have made available over four million days of lodging to family members since the program originated in 1990. By law, there is no charge for any family to stay at a Fisher House operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs; and Fisher House Foundation uses donations to reimburse the individual Fisher Houses operated by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. No family pays to stay at any Fisher House!
Today's donation is another suggestion from our friend Dana.
The Fisher House program provides a "home away from home" for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Annually, the Fisher House program serves more than 17,000 families, and have made available over four million days of lodging to family members since the program originated in 1990. By law, there is no charge for any family to stay at a Fisher House operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs; and Fisher House Foundation uses donations to reimburse the individual Fisher Houses operated by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. No family pays to stay at any Fisher House!
Monday, December 10, 2012
Day 16
NAMM Foundation
We recently saw a tweet by our friend Ellie -- "I Wanna Play!" Check out the perfect way to put an instrument in the hands of a child!
The NAMM Foundation's Wanna Play Fund seeks public donations to support programs and activities that strengthen music education in schools and provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn and play music. Specifically, donations to the Wanna Play Fund will provide musical instruments to schools that are expanding or reinstating music education programs. Instruments will be provided to schools that demonstrate commitment to expanding opportunities for all children to learn music as part of the core curriculum and to schools that employ quality music teachers. The NAMM Foundation will also provide instruments to individuals whose circumstances inhibit their ability to meet their full musical potential. Instrument donations will also be considered for non-professional music makers in community-based music programs and people pursuing professional music careers.
Thanks for the wonderful idea Ellie!
We recently saw a tweet by our friend Ellie -- "I Wanna Play!" Check out the perfect way to put an instrument in the hands of a child!
The NAMM Foundation's Wanna Play Fund seeks public donations to support programs and activities that strengthen music education in schools and provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn and play music. Specifically, donations to the Wanna Play Fund will provide musical instruments to schools that are expanding or reinstating music education programs. Instruments will be provided to schools that demonstrate commitment to expanding opportunities for all children to learn music as part of the core curriculum and to schools that employ quality music teachers. The NAMM Foundation will also provide instruments to individuals whose circumstances inhibit their ability to meet their full musical potential. Instrument donations will also be considered for non-professional music makers in community-based music programs and people pursuing professional music careers.
Thanks for the wonderful idea Ellie!
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Day 15
True Colors Fund
Our friend Amber who runs the much renowned and celebrated Costume Box posted the following:
This evening, Adam Lambert will be performing in New York to help Cyndi Lauper's True Colors Fund and its work on behalf of LGBT homeless youth.
Having never heard of this organization we decided to look it up. The best way to describe its mission is to read this message from Cyndi. We're standing with you Cyndi!
Our friend Amber who runs the much renowned and celebrated Costume Box posted the following:
This evening, Adam Lambert will be performing in New York to help Cyndi Lauper's True Colors Fund and its work on behalf of LGBT homeless youth.
Having never heard of this organization we decided to look it up. The best way to describe its mission is to read this message from Cyndi. We're standing with you Cyndi!
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Day 14
Greenwich House
Founded in 1902 as a settlement house to help New York’s increasing immigrant population adjust to life in a new country, today Greenwich House offers programs in social services, arts and education that provide thousands of New Yorkers with enrichment and cultural experiences.
The programs we offer provide a valuable resource to the clients we serve. Whether it be counseling at the Chemical Dependency Program or a class at the Music School or Pottery our professional, well-trained staff ensures that each client receives the care and service they need. Each individual—be they staff, volunteer, client or supporter—helps to contribute to this caring community of friends and neighbors in New York.
Founded in 1902 as a settlement house to help New York’s increasing immigrant population adjust to life in a new country, today Greenwich House offers programs in social services, arts and education that provide thousands of New Yorkers with enrichment and cultural experiences.
The programs we offer provide a valuable resource to the clients we serve. Whether it be counseling at the Chemical Dependency Program or a class at the Music School or Pottery our professional, well-trained staff ensures that each client receives the care and service they need. Each individual—be they staff, volunteer, client or supporter—helps to contribute to this caring community of friends and neighbors in New York.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Day 13
Guitars for Vets
On this day on December 7, 1941 Pearl Harbor was attacked. That had us thinking about our military and then our military veterans. So today's donation (another suggestion from our friend Ellie) is for our military veterans (and as a bonus relates to music!).
Guitars for Vets is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of ailing and injured military veterans by providing them with guitars and music instruction. Through self-expression and the healing power of music, it is our intent to restore the feelings of joy and purpose that can be lost after suffering trauma.
Guitars for Vets provides free private lessons and a new acoustic guitar to military veterans at VA medical and community-based Vet centers. All veterans are referred to us by the VA medical team in order to integrate the Guitars for Vets program into their treatment regimen. The private lessons are taught by volunteer instructors and are then followed by group sessions that provide a forum for the veterans to talk and play music with like-minded individuals, many of whom have had the same experiences, emotions and traumas. The music sessions provide a communal atmosphere. This has proven to be a catalyst that helps the Vets continue on their road to recovery and well being.
Upon graduation, each Vet in the program is presented a guitar, gig bag, strap, tuner, method book and a certificate of completion.
On this day on December 7, 1941 Pearl Harbor was attacked. That had us thinking about our military and then our military veterans. So today's donation (another suggestion from our friend Ellie) is for our military veterans (and as a bonus relates to music!).
Guitars for Vets is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of ailing and injured military veterans by providing them with guitars and music instruction. Through self-expression and the healing power of music, it is our intent to restore the feelings of joy and purpose that can be lost after suffering trauma.
Guitars for Vets provides free private lessons and a new acoustic guitar to military veterans at VA medical and community-based Vet centers. All veterans are referred to us by the VA medical team in order to integrate the Guitars for Vets program into their treatment regimen. The private lessons are taught by volunteer instructors and are then followed by group sessions that provide a forum for the veterans to talk and play music with like-minded individuals, many of whom have had the same experiences, emotions and traumas. The music sessions provide a communal atmosphere. This has proven to be a catalyst that helps the Vets continue on their road to recovery and well being.
Upon graduation, each Vet in the program is presented a guitar, gig bag, strap, tuner, method book and a certificate of completion.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Day 12
Fender Music Foundation
"Did you know that students who study music tend to score higher on standardized test scores, get better grades, and have better attendance records than students who don't study music?"
The Fender Music Foundation believes that music participation is an essential element in the fabric of an enduring society. The organization aims to keep music education alive and available in our nation’s schools and communities. Founded in 2005, this public charity has reached over 150,000 people through its grants of instruments to music education programs. These grant recipients, which give more people the opportunity to make music, include school music classrooms, community based organizations and music therapy programs.
"Did you know that students who study music tend to score higher on standardized test scores, get better grades, and have better attendance records than students who don't study music?"
The Fender Music Foundation believes that music participation is an essential element in the fabric of an enduring society. The organization aims to keep music education alive and available in our nation’s schools and communities. Founded in 2005, this public charity has reached over 150,000 people through its grants of instruments to music education programs. These grant recipients, which give more people the opportunity to make music, include school music classrooms, community based organizations and music therapy programs.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Day 11
Jazz'd 4 Life
Today's donation is made in memory of Dave Brubeck who passed away today, 1 day before his 92nd birthday. So we found it fitting to honor his life and achievements in jazz by making a donation to Jazz'd 4 Life.
Jazz'd 4 Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to building opportunities for young people around the world. Our International focus supports schools, orphanages, medical clinics, camps, food and clean water programs. Our Domestic initiatives support a variety of programs that strengthen our Urban American youth. We do this through entertainment events that promote productive relationships, connecting the artists, the audience, and, most importantly, the cause.
Their next entertainment event just so happens to be tomorrow with an all-star concert for Dave Brubeck's 92nd Birthday Bash.
And a special thanks to our friend Ellie for suggesting this charity!
Today's donation is made in memory of Dave Brubeck who passed away today, 1 day before his 92nd birthday. So we found it fitting to honor his life and achievements in jazz by making a donation to Jazz'd 4 Life.
Jazz'd 4 Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to building opportunities for young people around the world. Our International focus supports schools, orphanages, medical clinics, camps, food and clean water programs. Our Domestic initiatives support a variety of programs that strengthen our Urban American youth. We do this through entertainment events that promote productive relationships, connecting the artists, the audience, and, most importantly, the cause.
Their next entertainment event just so happens to be tomorrow with an all-star concert for Dave Brubeck's 92nd Birthday Bash.
And a special thanks to our friend Ellie for suggesting this charity!
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Day 10
Lighthouse International
For more than 106 years, Lighthouse International has led the charge in the fight against vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment.
Lighthouse International also has the The Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School that is "dedicated to helping people pursue their interest in, and study of, music while overcoming the challenges posed by vision loss."
This Saturday is their Sixth Annual Music School Performathon.
For more than 106 years, Lighthouse International has led the charge in the fight against vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment.
Lighthouse International also has the The Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School that is "dedicated to helping people pursue their interest in, and study of, music while overcoming the challenges posed by vision loss."
This Saturday is their Sixth Annual Music School Performathon.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Day 9
Boys & Girls Aid
Our friends at Art ala Carte were recently looking for someone to sponsor 10 at risk youth from Boys & Girls Aid for a tie dying workshop and stocking decorating. Boys & Girls Aid is an organization in Oregon that "finds children permanent homes through adoption and provides temporary safe places to stay through shelters and foster homes."
So for day 9 of our 37 days of giving we are not only choosing to highlight and make a direct donation to Boys & Girls Aid, but we are also sponsoring 10 at risk youth to attend an Art ala Carte workshop :-)
Our friends at Art ala Carte were recently looking for someone to sponsor 10 at risk youth from Boys & Girls Aid for a tie dying workshop and stocking decorating. Boys & Girls Aid is an organization in Oregon that "finds children permanent homes through adoption and provides temporary safe places to stay through shelters and foster homes."
So for day 9 of our 37 days of giving we are not only choosing to highlight and make a direct donation to Boys & Girls Aid, but we are also sponsoring 10 at risk youth to attend an Art ala Carte workshop :-)
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Day 8
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Today's donation is made in honor of our friend Laura who suggested St. Jude. St. Jude "is the largest childhood cancer research center in the world in terms of the number of patients enrolled and successfully treated on research protocols."
The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay.
Today's donation is made in honor of our friend Laura who suggested St. Jude. St. Jude "is the largest childhood cancer research center in the world in terms of the number of patients enrolled and successfully treated on research protocols."
The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Day 7
Sphinx
Our friend Ellie sent us a link to an organization that transforms lives through the power of diversity in the arts. It was founded by a violinist "to help overcome the cultural stereotype of classical music, and to encourage the participation of Blacks and Latinos in the field."
You should check out the impact they have made. What an amazing story!
Our friend Ellie sent us a link to an organization that transforms lives through the power of diversity in the arts. It was founded by a violinist "to help overcome the cultural stereotype of classical music, and to encourage the participation of Blacks and Latinos in the field."
You should check out the impact they have made. What an amazing story!
Friday, November 30, 2012
Day 6
The Gentle Barn
Our friend Dana led us to this wonderful organization. The Gentle Barn rescues, rehabilitates, and gives sanctuary to abused animals. But then they don't stop there. They combine that with working with children from the inner-city, group homes, mental health care facilities, foster homes, and schools to interact with the rescued animals so that both can heal and teach each other. How marvelous a thing that is!
Our friend Dana led us to this wonderful organization. The Gentle Barn rescues, rehabilitates, and gives sanctuary to abused animals. But then they don't stop there. They combine that with working with children from the inner-city, group homes, mental health care facilities, foster homes, and schools to interact with the rescued animals so that both can heal and teach each other. How marvelous a thing that is!
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Day 5
PBS
Do you remember the book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum? Well, I think he got it wrong. I would have called it All I Really Need to Know I Learned from Watching PBS ;-)
I was watching Charlie Rose last night and he was interviewing Justice Antonin Scalia. At one point they were talking about textualism and originalism - 2 subjects that I never gave thought to before. But to my surprise I was really intrigued with the conversation and found myself so drawn in to it that I actually contemplated buying Justice Scalia's new book to learn more. If Charlie Rose was the only show on TV, all the time, every channel, I'd be okay with that :-)
Anyway, all of this made me think about how much PBS has been such a valuable part of my life all these years. It's something that most of us probably take for granted. I grew up watching Sesame Street, The Electric Company, 3-2-1 Contact, Marty Stouffer's Wild America, The Joy of Painting, and Nature (to name a few). As I reflect on it now, all of these shows made a significant impact on me and I truly believe have shaped me in to the person I am today. And it hasn't stopped as I continue to enjoy what PBS has to offer as an adult.
So on this day of giving I am taking the time to celebrate PBS and to give back. PBS is a resource that needs to continue for every generation. Thank you PBS!
Do you remember the book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum? Well, I think he got it wrong. I would have called it All I Really Need to Know I Learned from Watching PBS ;-)
I was watching Charlie Rose last night and he was interviewing Justice Antonin Scalia. At one point they were talking about textualism and originalism - 2 subjects that I never gave thought to before. But to my surprise I was really intrigued with the conversation and found myself so drawn in to it that I actually contemplated buying Justice Scalia's new book to learn more. If Charlie Rose was the only show on TV, all the time, every channel, I'd be okay with that :-)
Anyway, all of this made me think about how much PBS has been such a valuable part of my life all these years. It's something that most of us probably take for granted. I grew up watching Sesame Street, The Electric Company, 3-2-1 Contact, Marty Stouffer's Wild America, The Joy of Painting, and Nature (to name a few). As I reflect on it now, all of these shows made a significant impact on me and I truly believe have shaped me in to the person I am today. And it hasn't stopped as I continue to enjoy what PBS has to offer as an adult.
So on this day of giving I am taking the time to celebrate PBS and to give back. PBS is a resource that needs to continue for every generation. Thank you PBS!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Day 4
Samahope
We came across Samahope in a recent Indiegogo campaign:
We're building a site called Samahope that uses the power of the web to fund life-saving surgeries and health interventions in poor parts of the world.
You can read more about how they operate on their Web site. We simply love the idea of using "the power of the web" to Give Life. Organizations like Samahope are leading the way in building a model for sustainable giving in a connected world.
We came across Samahope in a recent Indiegogo campaign:
We're building a site called Samahope that uses the power of the web to fund life-saving surgeries and health interventions in poor parts of the world.
You can read more about how they operate on their Web site. We simply love the idea of using "the power of the web" to Give Life. Organizations like Samahope are leading the way in building a model for sustainable giving in a connected world.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Day 3
New York Philharmonic Education Fund
Having just returned from another wonderful evening with the New York Philharmonic (Mendelssohn, Shostakovich, and Dvořák's New World Symphony), I thought it would be appropriate to dedicate day 3 to the New York Philharmonic. It also just so happens that they have a specific program that covers something very near and dear to my heart - music education :-)
In the words of one of the great music directors of the New York Philharmonic, Leonard Bernstein:
The joy of music should never be interrupted by a commercial.
Happy Giving Tuesday everyone!
Having just returned from another wonderful evening with the New York Philharmonic (Mendelssohn, Shostakovich, and Dvořák's New World Symphony), I thought it would be appropriate to dedicate day 3 to the New York Philharmonic. It also just so happens that they have a specific program that covers something very near and dear to my heart - music education :-)
In the words of one of the great music directors of the New York Philharmonic, Leonard Bernstein:
The joy of music should never be interrupted by a commercial.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Day 2
Kids in Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.)
We discovered K.I.D.S. when researching ways to help out during Hurricane Sandy. They led numerous efforts to bring much needed supplies to those children impacted by the storm by partnering with several organizations. You can see some great pictures of this on their Web site.
They also have a 10 to 1 system of matching $10 worth of product for every $1 donated. So that means a $10 donation will provide $100 worth of brand new merchandise to victims in need!
We discovered K.I.D.S. when researching ways to help out during Hurricane Sandy. They led numerous efforts to bring much needed supplies to those children impacted by the storm by partnering with several organizations. You can see some great pictures of this on their Web site.
They also have a 10 to 1 system of matching $10 worth of product for every $1 donated. So that means a $10 donation will provide $100 worth of brand new merchandise to victims in need!
Sunday, November 25, 2012
37 days of giving
With 37 days until the end of the year (counting today), we are embarking on a group journey of discovery and giving. Each day we will be highlighting a different charity and we will be blogging about our discovery daily.
If anyone would like to share this journey with us we are always happy for help. In fact what we would be grateful for are suggestions. So just leave a suggestion in the comments below. We can't promise we'll be able to get to every suggestion but if we do select your choice of a charity then the donation for that day will be made in your honor.
Let's start with day 1 - Oxfam America Unwrapped: Gifts That Give Back
What do you think? A goat, a pig, a cow, or a sheep?
If anyone would like to share this journey with us we are always happy for help. In fact what we would be grateful for are suggestions. So just leave a suggestion in the comments below. We can't promise we'll be able to get to every suggestion but if we do select your choice of a charity then the donation for that day will be made in your honor.
Let's start with day 1 - Oxfam America Unwrapped: Gifts That Give Back
What do you think? A goat, a pig, a cow, or a sheep?
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving!
The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor.
- Hubert H. Humphrey
http://www.myfoxny.com/story/20161996/village-to-96-year-old-man-residents-clean-up-debris
"But despite everything that's happened, Picucci is very thankful for one thing: the support of his neighbors who have helped him get by. He said he never knew people could be so nice."
- Hubert H. Humphrey
http://www.myfoxny.com/story/20161996/village-to-96-year-old-man-residents-clean-up-debris
"But despite everything that's happened, Picucci is very thankful for one thing: the support of his neighbors who have helped him get by. He said he never knew people could be so nice."
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Perseverance
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
- John Fitzgerald Kennedy
On this Veterans Day we give thanks and express remembrance. One thing our veterans have taught us and bestowed on our American spirit is perseverance. For everyone out there who has given of themselves in support of Hurricane Sandy relief, please continue to persevere.
This weekend I witnessed many acts of humanity and kindness. In the spirit of Kennedy's words and in the spirit of all of the sacrifices our veterans have made for our country, the people who have performed these acts give hope and inspiration to all of us. They are true heroes and are fulfilling the legacy of everything that our veterans fought for.
Thank you America.
- John Fitzgerald Kennedy
On this Veterans Day we give thanks and express remembrance. One thing our veterans have taught us and bestowed on our American spirit is perseverance. For everyone out there who has given of themselves in support of Hurricane Sandy relief, please continue to persevere.
This weekend I witnessed many acts of humanity and kindness. In the spirit of Kennedy's words and in the spirit of all of the sacrifices our veterans have made for our country, the people who have performed these acts give hope and inspiration to all of us. They are true heroes and are fulfilling the legacy of everything that our veterans fought for.
Thank you America.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Hurricane Sandy
Many of you have recently been asking us the following:
If anyone has other ideas about what can be done, please feel free to share those in the comments below!
Finally, despite the recent events I thought Random Acts of Kindness month actually went very well. At least for me personally I can say that I am much more aware of my surroundings and I pay more attention to those small moments that can lead to new beginnings. And based on what I've heard from many of you it seems like collectively we really made a difference this month - something that I am glad to have been a part of. Indeed something that will stay with me and make me continue with #randomactofkindness :-)
So did anyone greet me with a hello or good morning? No, but to be honest I am not surprised (having worked in NYC for many years). Going in to this I had thought of 2 options: either continue and see if anyone does greet me, or at the end of the month simply give it away very randomly. Before the hurricane hit I was leaning towards the latter. Having been confined to my house for the past week I was unable to accomplish this in time for the end of October. But in a way now I'm almost glad (not for the circumstances but for the new opportunity) as I will now endeavor to reach someone impacted by the hurricane.
- How can we help with the relief efforts?
- What happened with your $500 random act of kindness?
If anyone has other ideas about what can be done, please feel free to share those in the comments below!
Finally, despite the recent events I thought Random Acts of Kindness month actually went very well. At least for me personally I can say that I am much more aware of my surroundings and I pay more attention to those small moments that can lead to new beginnings. And based on what I've heard from many of you it seems like collectively we really made a difference this month - something that I am glad to have been a part of. Indeed something that will stay with me and make me continue with #randomactofkindness :-)
So did anyone greet me with a hello or good morning? No, but to be honest I am not surprised (having worked in NYC for many years). Going in to this I had thought of 2 options: either continue and see if anyone does greet me, or at the end of the month simply give it away very randomly. Before the hurricane hit I was leaning towards the latter. Having been confined to my house for the past week I was unable to accomplish this in time for the end of October. But in a way now I'm almost glad (not for the circumstances but for the new opportunity) as I will now endeavor to reach someone impacted by the hurricane.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Origins
First we'd like to start with thanking everyone so much who have tweeted or donated to help Art ala Carte PDX to relocate to some new digs (and so much more!). And since more than 10 people rose up to the challenge, as promised here's the story about how we got started :-)
The idea behind "37 people can't be wrong" actually started 21 years ago. At the time we had no idea where it would take us. But we can't say too much about that part of the story (without breaking anonymity). Fast forward though to April 24, 2011 and there begins the real story that brought about 37 people as you know us today.
Kids sell T-shirts to save music program
On that fateful Sunday I happened to come across this article (link above). I can't tell you exactly what it was but for some reason that article really struck a chord. Perhaps it was because of how much music has impacted my life or how I remembered that I had the opportunity to play an instrument when I was younger. In any case it was on that day that the journey of 37 people began.
After doing some research I came across a few charities where I felt I could help make a positive difference in trying to preserve music education across the country. The rest is, as they say, history! All it took after that was the help and support of my 37 people as well as a most fortuitous encounter with the person who runs one of our favorite giving pages (here's a hint - we've been told music makes our students smarter!).
So now you know what got us started as 37 people ;-)
The idea behind "37 people can't be wrong" actually started 21 years ago. At the time we had no idea where it would take us. But we can't say too much about that part of the story (without breaking anonymity). Fast forward though to April 24, 2011 and there begins the real story that brought about 37 people as you know us today.
Kids sell T-shirts to save music program
On that fateful Sunday I happened to come across this article (link above). I can't tell you exactly what it was but for some reason that article really struck a chord. Perhaps it was because of how much music has impacted my life or how I remembered that I had the opportunity to play an instrument when I was younger. In any case it was on that day that the journey of 37 people began.
After doing some research I came across a few charities where I felt I could help make a positive difference in trying to preserve music education across the country. The rest is, as they say, history! All it took after that was the help and support of my 37 people as well as a most fortuitous encounter with the person who runs one of our favorite giving pages (here's a hint - we've been told music makes our students smarter!).
So now you know what got us started as 37 people ;-)
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Arts and craft(iness)
arts |ärts|
noun
the various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance : the visual arts | [in sing. ] the art of photography.
For those of you who follow us, you know how much we support music education. Music is just one part of the arts and they are all interconnected in many ways. Yesterday we came across this tweet from @ArtalaCartePDX:
It is a very sad day when someone steals $50 from a cash box of a small business trying to make a difference with children in our community!
Well, one thing led to another and we found this campaign to help Art ala Carte PDX relocate and achieve their dreams for the community: http://www.indiegogo.com/helpaacrelocate
So now for the craftiness! In typical fashion we're offering up a 37 people challenge. This may be our most interesting one yet ;-)
In all seriousness (not that this challenge isn't serious), please consider giving what you can to this wonderful organization. Every dollar will help and there are only 6 days left before this campaign expires (as of October 13th).
craft-i-ness |ˈkraftēnəs|
noun
the quality of being crafty
craft-y |ˈkraftē|
adjective
clever at achieving one's aims by indirect methods
#savethearts
noun
the various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance : the visual arts | [in sing. ] the art of photography.
For those of you who follow us, you know how much we support music education. Music is just one part of the arts and they are all interconnected in many ways. Yesterday we came across this tweet from @ArtalaCartePDX:
It is a very sad day when someone steals $50 from a cash box of a small business trying to make a difference with children in our community!
Well, one thing led to another and we found this campaign to help Art ala Carte PDX relocate and achieve their dreams for the community: http://www.indiegogo.com/helpaacrelocate
So now for the craftiness! In typical fashion we're offering up a 37 people challenge. This may be our most interesting one yet ;-)
- If at least 10 people donate any amount (alliek323 counts as #1) we will write a blog post explaining what got us started as 37 people.
- In keeping with the spirit of art, for everyone who donates at least $37 we will send them a picture of an old portrait that a then very young member of 37 people drew of yours truly (and if you don't already know my first name, it's written on top of the portrait).
- And just for kicks, for everyone who donates at least $370 yours truly will meet them for a coffee at Eataly in Manhattan and tell them everything about 37 people...alas you'll have to make your own way there :-)
In all seriousness (not that this challenge isn't serious), please consider giving what you can to this wonderful organization. Every dollar will help and there are only 6 days left before this campaign expires (as of October 13th).
craft-i-ness |ˈkraftēnəs|
noun
the quality of being crafty
craft-y |ˈkraftē|
adjective
clever at achieving one's aims by indirect methods
#savethearts
Sunday, September 30, 2012
You can always try again
Special guest post by Allison Kelly (@allie2n3)
Title: There’s a Fine Line Between Random Acts of Kindness and Stalking
Subtitle: A Failed Attempt at RAOK
I went grocery shopping this morning. As I stood in the produce section perusing the organic mangoes (overpriced, but SO worth it!), I overheard the following conversation between a confused gentleman (CG) and a very young stock-boy (VYSB):
CG: Do you know what a poblano pepper looks like?
VYSB: Uhhhhh. . . .
CG (pointing to one of the pepper sections): This sign is partially torn off, so I don’t know if this is it?
VYSB: Uhhhhh. . . .
CG: It’s ok. Thanks.
VYSB scurries away, back to the comforts of stocking tomatoes – a well-known piece of produce that no one needs to ask about.
I watched this exchange with a sense of amusement – the stock-boy was adorable and was not being rude in the least, he just simply could not help this man. The man was incredibly pleasant and did not seem annoyed at all by the fact that this person working in the produce department could not help him with his very own produce needs. I got the feeling that this CG was sent to the store with a list of ingredients from his wife, which she needed to prepare a special meal for the two of them. As the VYSB returned to his duties, the CG stood for a few seconds longer in front of the peppers before turning and walking away.
I silently chuckled to myself, and then turned back to the mangoes. (Seriously – DELICIOUS. Try them.) All of a sudden, something went off in my brain. It was like a RAOK switch – Maybe I could help? Could I? Was there something I could do? Yes.
I whipped out my phone and Googled “poblano peppers.” I got a picture of what they looked like, and went over to the pepper section and looked. The picture showed an almost black, shriveled up looking thing that DEFINITELY did not look like any of the peppers in front of me. I started walking away, feeling like, hey, I tried. But then I started thinking about all of the times when I was looking for a very specific, unknown (to me) item for a recipe and what I did when I couldn’t find it. Sooooo, I got my phone out again and Googled, “Poblano pepper substitutes.” According to the wise people of the InterWeb, pasillo peppers are pretty much the same thing as poblanos. (I also discovered that the picture of the black, shrivelly pepper was an image of a ROASTED poblano pepper, and that in its original form, poblanos look just like pasillos.) So, I went back to the pepper section and – OH MY GOSH! THEY HAVE PASILLOS!!!!!!
After dealing with the fact that I sometimes get really excited over strange things, I took off in search of the Confused Gentleman. I scoured the aisles for him, looking in every nook and behind every bread-filled shelf in the store. I looked in the Starbucks line (we have Starbucks inside of our grocery stores here on the west coast – does the east coast have this yet?), and I looked in all of the check-out lines. Finally, I had to deal with the reality of this situation: Confused Gentleman was gone.
I had failed. My attempt to help this man was left hanging, like an unfinished sentence just waiting for the exclamation point. I wanted to provide that exclamation point, but instead, there was just an ellipsis; a “dot-dot-dot” that the Confused Gentleman would never even know was there. . .
So why am I sharing this story with you? This story of failure? This story of an unfinished random act of kindness? Well, because I’ve learned a few important things:
Awareness matters. Just being aware that you can perform random acts of kindness makes a difference. I almost walked away from this situation completely. But because of all the talk I have been hearing about October being RAOK month, it sparked something in me. It motivated me to THINK. To ask those important questions, like, “Is there something I can do?” And most importantly, it made me ACT.
Speak up sooner. In hindsight, I realize that if I had approached the man right away, I could have done all of my Google searches while talking with him, and we likely would have come to a solution together.
As it stands, I’m left wondering what happened. Did he go somewhere else and get his poblano pepper and return home triumphant in his ingredient acquisitional skills? Or did he go home pepper-less to a wife who laughed about his lack of produce knowledge, and decided to order pizza instead? I have no idea. I just know that I’ll be better prepared next time, because that’s the great thing about showing kindness – there’s no expiration date and you can ALWAYS try again.
#randomactofkindness
Title: There’s a Fine Line Between Random Acts of Kindness and Stalking
Subtitle: A Failed Attempt at RAOK
I went grocery shopping this morning. As I stood in the produce section perusing the organic mangoes (overpriced, but SO worth it!), I overheard the following conversation between a confused gentleman (CG) and a very young stock-boy (VYSB):
CG: Do you know what a poblano pepper looks like?
VYSB: Uhhhhh. . . .
CG (pointing to one of the pepper sections): This sign is partially torn off, so I don’t know if this is it?
VYSB: Uhhhhh. . . .
CG: It’s ok. Thanks.
VYSB scurries away, back to the comforts of stocking tomatoes – a well-known piece of produce that no one needs to ask about.
I watched this exchange with a sense of amusement – the stock-boy was adorable and was not being rude in the least, he just simply could not help this man. The man was incredibly pleasant and did not seem annoyed at all by the fact that this person working in the produce department could not help him with his very own produce needs. I got the feeling that this CG was sent to the store with a list of ingredients from his wife, which she needed to prepare a special meal for the two of them. As the VYSB returned to his duties, the CG stood for a few seconds longer in front of the peppers before turning and walking away.
I silently chuckled to myself, and then turned back to the mangoes. (Seriously – DELICIOUS. Try them.) All of a sudden, something went off in my brain. It was like a RAOK switch – Maybe I could help? Could I? Was there something I could do? Yes.
I whipped out my phone and Googled “poblano peppers.” I got a picture of what they looked like, and went over to the pepper section and looked. The picture showed an almost black, shriveled up looking thing that DEFINITELY did not look like any of the peppers in front of me. I started walking away, feeling like, hey, I tried. But then I started thinking about all of the times when I was looking for a very specific, unknown (to me) item for a recipe and what I did when I couldn’t find it. Sooooo, I got my phone out again and Googled, “Poblano pepper substitutes.” According to the wise people of the InterWeb, pasillo peppers are pretty much the same thing as poblanos. (I also discovered that the picture of the black, shrivelly pepper was an image of a ROASTED poblano pepper, and that in its original form, poblanos look just like pasillos.) So, I went back to the pepper section and – OH MY GOSH! THEY HAVE PASILLOS!!!!!!
After dealing with the fact that I sometimes get really excited over strange things, I took off in search of the Confused Gentleman. I scoured the aisles for him, looking in every nook and behind every bread-filled shelf in the store. I looked in the Starbucks line (we have Starbucks inside of our grocery stores here on the west coast – does the east coast have this yet?), and I looked in all of the check-out lines. Finally, I had to deal with the reality of this situation: Confused Gentleman was gone.
I had failed. My attempt to help this man was left hanging, like an unfinished sentence just waiting for the exclamation point. I wanted to provide that exclamation point, but instead, there was just an ellipsis; a “dot-dot-dot” that the Confused Gentleman would never even know was there. . .
So why am I sharing this story with you? This story of failure? This story of an unfinished random act of kindness? Well, because I’ve learned a few important things:
Awareness matters. Just being aware that you can perform random acts of kindness makes a difference. I almost walked away from this situation completely. But because of all the talk I have been hearing about October being RAOK month, it sparked something in me. It motivated me to THINK. To ask those important questions, like, “Is there something I can do?” And most importantly, it made me ACT.
Speak up sooner. In hindsight, I realize that if I had approached the man right away, I could have done all of my Google searches while talking with him, and we likely would have come to a solution together.
As it stands, I’m left wondering what happened. Did he go somewhere else and get his poblano pepper and return home triumphant in his ingredient acquisitional skills? Or did he go home pepper-less to a wife who laughed about his lack of produce knowledge, and decided to order pizza instead? I have no idea. I just know that I’ll be better prepared next time, because that’s the great thing about showing kindness – there’s no expiration date and you can ALWAYS try again.
#randomactofkindness
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
It must be fate
When you leave the bowels of the NYC subway and enter the Port Authority, there are several doors side by side and you must walk through one. As I walked up the ramp towards the doors I passed a woman who was leading her young son with one hand while carrying a tricycle in the other. I walked through the door on the far right and paused to see if she was behind me. She chose the door to the left so I turned around and opened that door for her from the other side.
Now the point of this story is not to mention a random act of kindness I performed. In fact there was nothing random about it (at least from my point of view). To me this was just a normal thing I'm sure anyone would have done. But what happened next made me smile. The woman thanked me and as I turned to walk away I heard her tell her son "see that's an act of kindness...". The rest of her words after that trailed off and I did not hear them as I was already on my way.
So as you see, since we're making October Random Acts of Kindness Month, it must be fate :-)
#randomactofkindness
Now the point of this story is not to mention a random act of kindness I performed. In fact there was nothing random about it (at least from my point of view). To me this was just a normal thing I'm sure anyone would have done. But what happened next made me smile. The woman thanked me and as I turned to walk away I heard her tell her son "see that's an act of kindness...". The rest of her words after that trailed off and I did not hear them as I was already on my way.
So as you see, since we're making October Random Acts of Kindness Month, it must be fate :-)
#randomactofkindness
Monday, September 24, 2012
Random Acts of Kindness
While thinking of how to run a contest for teachers on Adopt A Classroom, we came up with the idea of asking the following question:
If we gave you $500 to perform a random act of kindness, what would it be? Be fun! Be creative! Be inspirational!
During the contest we happened to search #randomactofkindness on Twitter. One of the tweets we read referred to this amazing act of kindness: http://www.communitynewscommons.org/our-city/winnipeg-transit-drivers-amazing-act-of-kindness-stuns-passengers
We received so many great ideas for random acts of kindness during the contest, and that got us thinking. So now we're on a mission to make October Random Acts of Kindness Month and we're looking to recruit as many people as we can!
As a personal random act of kindness, this is what I'll be doing. I work in New York City and my plan is to give $500 to the first person (stranger) who greets me on the street (with a simple hello or good morning). I will tell that person to keep what they like (need) and then consider passing the rest on in the same way. I'm really curious to see how far this goes.
So listen up New Yorkers! Consider saying hello to a random stranger. You never know what may come your way :-)
#randomactofkindness
If we gave you $500 to perform a random act of kindness, what would it be? Be fun! Be creative! Be inspirational!
During the contest we happened to search #randomactofkindness on Twitter. One of the tweets we read referred to this amazing act of kindness: http://www.communitynewscommons.org/our-city/winnipeg-transit-drivers-amazing-act-of-kindness-stuns-passengers
We received so many great ideas for random acts of kindness during the contest, and that got us thinking. So now we're on a mission to make October Random Acts of Kindness Month and we're looking to recruit as many people as we can!
As a personal random act of kindness, this is what I'll be doing. I work in New York City and my plan is to give $500 to the first person (stranger) who greets me on the street (with a simple hello or good morning). I will tell that person to keep what they like (need) and then consider passing the rest on in the same way. I'm really curious to see how far this goes.
So listen up New Yorkers! Consider saying hello to a random stranger. You never know what may come your way :-)
#randomactofkindness
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