I am not rich...but I try to give.
Sometimes I give a gift of time. Frankly, I have less of that than I'd like, but I share what and where I can. Like Pip in Carry Her Heart, I was the kindergarten story lady for years. I love reading to kids. Hey, I even sang. They never mind that I am definitely not Broadway ready. Raffi songs were a particular kindergarten favorite. (And in case there are any other Raffi fans out there, he's touring in the US. I know this because a particular fan—an adult now with kids of her own— has tickets and is Broadway excited about it!)
I've volunteered in other ways...PTAs, school boards, nursing homes...
But every year, in addition to my time I give to local organizations as well. I have three areas I concentrate my giving on. Hunger. Education. Community Enrichment. You all know I love cooking (Cooks & Books). Part of my love of cooking stems from the fact I like feeding people. So the charities and organizations I give to all do that. Places that feed people literally, but also places that feed people's minds and souls.
As the year is drawing to a close (just a little more than couple months left...how did that happen?) I'm reviewing my list. Like characters I've written about, I realize I can't change the world or change all the world's hurts, but I will do my best to change my corner of it where I can.
I hope you take a look around and find places near you where you can spread some glee as well!
Holly
