VOLUNTEER!!!

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke, British statesman and orator

A move I made after college resulted in 9 months of complete self-pity and unhappiness. But it also led me to where I am today. So I certainly wouldn't change things if I could. Anyway, during these months of despair (dramatic enough?), a certain wise woman kept telling me to go volunteer in the pediatric ward at a local hospital. She knew me well. She knew that I love kids and that bringing smiles to their faces would ultimately bring back my own smile. Unfortunately I didn't listen to her during that time, but her advice regarding volunteering stuck with me. I have since learned that volunteering is the most efficient way to get out of that self-pity slump where we sometimes find ourselves. Don't be a king/queen of excuses, find some time and volunteer! It'll change your life and most certainly other lives too! Each organization listed below requires only a few hours per month from their volunteers.

• Make A Wish Foundation is a such a great way to help dreams come true for children with life threatening illnesses.
  
• Big Brothers Big Sisters is a well established organization for role models to make long lasting impacts in youths.
  
• AmeriCorps provides a multitude of ways to give back to your local community.
  
• Red Cross Disaster Services Volunteer trains you to be there when your neighbor needs you the most!
  
• Meals on Wheels is such a simple way to let a stranger know somebody cares about them.
  
• The Volunteer Family website is a rich source for local volunteer opportunities. Their volunteer ideas link gives tips on helping the homeless, assisting children, befriending the elderly, caring for the sick/disabled, and so many more ways to help!
  
• City Year gets you involved directly with the local community and schools fostering active citizenship.
  
• Teaching English as a second language is truly rewarding. Sponsoring organizations vary depending where you live. Find out where by asking your local United Way or library.