Just Cause

For something completely different, I wanted to mention a couple of causes that are out there that can always use a little extra support. I chose to highlight these because they are ones that I am directly involved in, are not overly time consuming, and which don’t require any financial contributions. If anyone wants to bring attention to a similar venture, feel free to mention it in the comments section as I am always on the lookout for other projects or charities that need backing.

Blood Donations:
I know the thought of giving blood makes a lot of people feel uncomfortable, but it really is such a worthy thing to do if you can. Even if you are not able to be approved as a donor, or if you just hate the thought of needles that much, you can still help by bringing it up in your social circles to raise awareness of this very necessary process. I have been giving blood on and off for the past nine years (I don’t think you can donate as often here as in other parts of the world though) and, while I still usually have them cover up the needle so that I don’t have to look at it, I know that I am giving something very important. Help save a life!

Click To Donate:
Most days I take about one minute out of the more than fourteen-hundred that I have at my disposal and I visit three different click-to-donate sites (which can also be found at the bottom of my blog’s right sidebar). In total there are twenty-two different programs that benefit from taking that short amount of time each day to click through the online tabs and buttons, which in turn results in sponsors making contributions to the various charities. It is a fast and free way to support many different causes on a regular basis. What better way to spend your time?

Operation Beautiful:
I was made aware of this endeavor about six months ago and I immediately fell in love with the idea. The basic premise is for (mostly) women to leave short, heartfelt, anonymous messages in places where other (again, mostly) women will discover them. It is a movement meant to create positively and self-esteem in the most unexpected moments. It took me a while to find the perfect heart-shaped post-it notes (not necessary; just pretty), but for the past couple of months I have been using them to write down short statements of encouragement and joy. I leave them all over my community and beyond in washroom facilities, on bulletin boards, near payphones, at bus stops, and anywhere else I think someone may have need for a kind word. Being nice to your fellow (wo)man has never been easier!

Cards 4 Cancer:
I must credit Jody with bringing this cause to my attention, who was actually citing a post by Megan at It’s All About Joy! When I heard about this project last month I couldn’t wait to sign up as a team leader! The premise was developed by an organization in the United States, but its mission is one with a worldwide reach. On April 10th countless greeting cards are slated to be delivered to cancer centres around the globe. These cards can be homemade or store bought and will all have messages of hope and goodwill in them. This venture is sure to bring smiles to the faces of many patients who are battling the various forms of this horrible disease. Again, a little kindness can go a long way!