Season of Giving - All Year Long?

Hello on this fine November day.

I started composing yesterday and thought I would share what I have been doing on the off season with regards to training however I am switching gears.  The last few weeks I have been thinking about fundraising.  With Christmas around the corner it seems people's hearts stretch out the size of the Grinch's (at the end of the cartoon).  I wonder what would happen if we kept this feeling of helping others in our heart all year round.  I know the world will be a much better place.  Just maybe that feeling can be incorporated into a New Year's resolution.  It could be as simple as setting aside the price of one cup of Tim's a week in a jar and after six months giving that to an organization that is meaningful to you.  Many grocery stores have a food hamper for Feed the Need in Durham or another food bank.  It could be just adding one can of beans, pasta or Kraft Dinner to your weekly purchase and put it in the box.  If we all did something small it would make a difference in our community.

Deciding what organization to give to is a challenge especially when so many are in need.  Over the years I have engaged in these and one might resonate with you. 

• Fill an Angel bag with toiletries, hat, scarfs, playing cards, socks etc. for Gate 3:16.  They have suggested items for Men, Ladies and Children.  I'll be happy to provide the list.
• Purchase a turkey voucher to supply a family's Christmas Turkey.
•  The Oshawa credit Union and some workplaces have an Angel Tree. Select a age and gender to purchase a gift for that person.  Often these are directed at children. 
• Sponsor Christmas dinner for a family in need via the Salvation Army. 
• Hear of a person who is need just go and give them a cheque and watch them smile. 
• Participate in a local food drive or toy drive. 

I have no idea how to knit but maybe you do.  My church (Faith United) has an Angel Tree full of donated mittens and scarf that end up at a school.  I'm sure there are many organizations that do something similar.

There are many great causes out there.  I know one will resonate with you all you need to do is take the time to find it. 

Its going to be another beautiful November day.  Get out and enjoy it before old man winter comes to visits and decides its time to stay.

-Liz