Partying for Good

Times are tight right about now, and have been for a few months. Perhaps you've been laid off, a victim of a Ponzi Scheme, or are just feeling the pinch from having to buy food, gas, and gifts. Still, it's important not to forget those who are even worse off than we are. After all, even homeless men in Detroit have found it in their hearts to collect money for others.

But what can you do if you want to help but don't have a lot of cash? Well, there's always my favorite: Collect donations from co-workers and friends on the promise that if you hit a certain goal, you'll cut your hair into a mullet. True story.

Not all of us are willing to sacrifice our lovely locks to such a fashion faux pas. However, if you look more like Goldilocks (or Brunett-i-locks) and less like Chuck Norris, you can donate your hair to Locks of Love for just the cost of a haircut. That is, as long as you have 10 inches and it's not highlighted or bleached.

Ok, so I don't have 10 inches, nor am I willing to sport a mullet... but my friends and I are getting together for a potluck instead of exchanging gifts this year. I'm going to propose that we all bring a few non-perishable goods to donate to a local food pantry, since shelves are looking pretty barren. It's an easy way for us all to help, just a little bit.

And finally, we're all planning on partying this New Year's Eve, I'm sure. Interestingly, I've search high and low for an event benefiting a non-profit and cannot for the life of me find one. The only remotely close item is the Back Bay Gala for Boomers, which has a silent auction benefiting Ellie's Fund. Perhaps OYFP will step up to the plate next year. In the mean time, before Christmas arrives, you could take in a few tapas at Tapeo, and bring along a donation for Toys for Tots.

If you have any ideas on low key ways to help out, please share!

Related Posts: Toys for Tapas; Ellie Fund and Oscars; If they can give, you can too; Alternative holiday gift ideas; A gift to remember; Buy local for the holidays; Conscious Giving; 'Tis the season to change the present

Here's what we should be celebrating this season: Friends!