Yeah, I know. I’m being a little lazy, but it’s the holidays. We’re all really busy this time of year. But, as with our favorite Christmas shows and holiday music, I discovered that the blog post I wrote last year is a still relevant. So, consider this my new holiday tradition for leadershipandcommunity.com.
Now, the blog lists three of my favorite charities. Please add your personal favorites in the comments section. Happy holidays. Bah, humbug!
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Originally published 12/2010:
The holiday season brings two of my favorite Christmas shows: A Christmas Carol and How The Grinch Stole Christmas. These two classics were created almost a century apart, but their message goes to the heart of where our communities are today: the spirit of the holidays is more about giving than receiving. And, for many nonprofits, your gifts this season truly will make a difference in the health and happiness of our community.
Please support your favorite nonprofit with a year-end donation. Even if you already gave in November during Give to the Max Day, check out a new nonprofit you’ve heard about recently. If you like what you see, make a donation.
What are my current favorite nonprofits?
Guitars for Vets This new national organization promotes the healing power of music for injured veterans. After a series of guitar lessons, vets who graduate from the program receive a free acoustic guitar, strap, gig bag and other supplies. The Minnesota chapter is just forming and needs financial support. My husband, a Beirut-era disabled vet who has struggled for two decades with PTSD has benefited from this program and hopes to begin volunteering with them soon.
VSA Minnesota: The State Organization on Arts and Disability. In 2011, VSA Minnesota celebrates its 25th anniversary. This small, but mighty nonprofit is a statewide treasure. It’s arts residencies, mentoring and access programs make Minnesota a leader in the arts for people with disabilities.
Courage Center. Of course, my employer is my very favorite nonprofit. I am blessed to work for an organization whose living, breathing mission comes to life around me, every single day.
There are lots of great websites and charity rating services to help you decide where to make your donation. Here are just a few places to help you share your generous spirit.
My favorite charities include my kids’ public elementary school foundation (Hale and Field Foundation), my employer (Scholarship America) and DARTS (DARTS1.org)! I also LOVE the missions of the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota (www.wfmn.org) and the YWCA of Minneapolis (www.ywcampls.org) and am always trying to give when and how I can. And Sue, it’s always good to recycle!