Volunteer Boston: Get On Your Feet

Thrill Hill - Its Fast & Its A Blast!

2012-01-25T12:08:00.013-05:00

Join us on Sunday, February 19th for tubing at

McIntyre's Thrill Hill in Manchester, NH!

This $40 all inclusive trip includes:

Roundtrip Transportation
Two Hours on the Thrill Hill
Pizza and Beer
Charitable Donation of your choice!

If you joined us on our last trip to Nashoba Valley Blue Grass and Blues you are sure to enjoy this event! We donated $1,000 to charity that day...help us support a local charity all while having a blast.

100% of proceeds will be donated to the charity YOU* help choose!

* Charities will be nominated by those who purchase tickets
**One of the top three vote getting charities will be selected
***All Nonprofits can get their charity on the list if they help do PR and Like OYFP's FB

Email john.ryan@oyfp.org with questions!

TIMELINE:

Bus Leaves Boston 11:30am (From a Bar in Fenway Area!)
Bus Arrives at Hill 12:30pm
2 Hours on the Thrill Hill 1:00-3pm
Pizza and Beer at Brothers Restaurant Pizza & Lounge 3:30-5:30pm
Bus Arrives in Boston 6:30pm

TICKETS:

RUN BOSTON #BostonMarathon

2012-01-18T14:32:00.002-05:00

The Boys & Girls Club is looking for a few more teammembers to join us and run the 2012 Boston Marathon!

When you join the Boys & Girls Club Marathon team youwill get:

-Guaranteed entry to the 2012 Boston Marathon

-Expert-coached weekly large group workouts

-A customized training plan for your fitness level

-An unforgettable marathon experience with the support ofour group

-Weekly large group training runs with a meeting space andparking

-Race day event at the Westin Copley Place

-Race weekend pasta party

-13 to 21-Mile training runs

-The incredible feeling that your efforts are supportingyouth programs and services!

Applications are for athletes who are capable of running amarathon in less than six hours and additionally agree to meet the minimumfundraising requirement of $4,000

Contact me John Ryan for an application.

Jryan@newtonbgc.com

617-630-2066.

http://www.newtonbgc.com/marathon.html

Get Connected in 2012 with Socializing for Justice

2012-01-12T11:10:00.002-05:00

Get Connected in 2012 with Socializing for Justice
Grassroots group building a cross-issue progressive network since 2006

On January 19th from 6-9PM, Socializing for Justice will be hosting it's largest event of the year, Connecting for Justice, at Lir on Boylston. This open house event draws 120+ progressives of all stripes and is a great way to get connected to SoJust's cross-issue progressive community. This is a welcoming space where all attendees, diverse by age, race, gender, sexual orientation, newness to Boston, and experience with activism, come together to “put the SOCIAL back in social justice!” Newcomers and long-time members will celebrate the remarkable success of this member-driven, volunteer-run grassroots group. Since 2006, SoJust has grown to over 1800 members and hosted nearly 110 events.

Socializing for Justice is the brainchild of local activist, community organizer, and event planner, Robbie Samuels. For the past decade, Robbie has been a leader within Boston’s progressive community. He has been recognized for his efforts - in 2011, his birthday, September 16, was declared "Robbie Samuels Day" by the Boston City Council. In creating SoJust, Robbie has combined fun, socializing and cross-issue mobilization as never before.

The vision for SoJust comes from Robbie’s firsthand experience. He wanted to address what he was repeatedly finding in his work – that individuals, organizations, and campaigns stunted their effectiveness by focusing solely on single-issue work. He shares, “I believed we could get people representing multiple progressive issues into a room, connect based on our overlapping values and more effectively fight for social justice. We need to be building a cross-issue progressive movement."

At Connecting for Justice, participants can experience the connecting power of Socializing for Justice for themselves. There will be Action Stations to link attendees with local organizations, “I’m Looking For” and “Ask Me About” tags, a Jobs Board filled with openings from other social change groups and a free Literature Table. These features mirror options on SoJust’s website,www.sojust.org, an online hub where social justice events, job and volunteer opportunities from other social change organizations are cross-posted on the Calendar and Message Board.

Get involved with Boston’s fastest-growing cross-issue progressive community. Network with like-minded progressives and find the opportunities you’ve been searching for. In the words of Robbie, ““If you think this group MIGHT be for you – it is.” Learn more and RSVP for Connecting for Justice at www.sojust.org.

Christmas Volunteer Opportunity

2011-11-30T17:17:00.001-05:00

Who: Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly (LBFE) is a non-sectarian national network of non-profit, volunteer-based organizations committed to relieving isolation and loneliness among the elderly. We offer to people of good will the opportunity to join the elderly in friendship and celebration of life.

What: As part of the Holiday Visitation Program, Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly makes visits to over 350 Elder Friends on Christmas who are without family to celebrate the holiday. They will also celebrate Hanukkah with the Jewish elders on Christmas Day. Visiting Volunteers bring with the elder a hot meal, a holiday gift, a bouquet of fresh flowers, a bottle of sparkling cider, and most importantly, the gift of companionship. Visiting Volunteers pick up these items at Northeastern University’s Stetson West Dining Hall between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm on Christmas, Sunday December 25. This is a great opportunity for inidivuals or families.

Where: Northeastern University- Stetson West- 10 Forsyth Street, Boston MA 02115

When: December 25^th, 10am-1pm

Cause: Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly

Partners: N/A

Cost: FREE

Other Info: Please e-mail Megan at volunteer.bos@littlebrothers.org, or call 617-524-8882 for more information. Volunteers need to fill out a brief application and CORI form and return them no later than December 15, 2011.

Per Massachusetts law, all volunteers must pass a criminal background check. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

RUN OF THE CHARLES CANOE & KAYAK RACE Sunday, April 29, 2012

2011-11-28T10:33:00.001-05:00

WHAT: The biggest and best canoe and kayak event in New England!

The 30th anniversary of the Run of the Charles Canoe & Kayak Race celebrates the Charles River Watershed Association's 48 years of improvements to the health, beauty and enjoyment of the Charles River and its tributaries.

WHEN: Sunday, April 29, 2012

First race check-in at 8:30 AM. Races continuing all day long. Concluding at approximately 4:30 PM at DCR's Artesani Park.

WHERE: On the Charles River, with races starting in Dedham, Needham, Newton, and Brighton. All races finish at DCR's Artesani Park on Soldiers Field Road in Brighton where race fans and families gather to enjoy a day of music, refreshments, exhibits, raffle drawings, picnics and awards at the free Finish Line Festival.

WHO: Nearly 1,500 canoe and kayak enthusiasts, professional, amateur, and recreational, from throughout the US and Canada, ages 12 and up, compete in a variety of races, including the $5,000 Professional Flatwater Canoe Marathon, the 24-Mile Relay Race, and 19-, 9-, and 6-mile races.

5,000 - 10,000 spectators line the riverbanks to watch the Run of the Charles.

FEATURING: Corporate and college team challenges. Family fun at the Finish Line Festival with food, live music, awards, outdoor sports demonstrations, and post-race picnics.

ADMISSION: FREE admission to the Finish Line Festival at DCR's Artesani Park. Race entry fees range from $35- $55 per individual to $350 - $400 per relay race team.

MEDIA Charles River Watershed Association

CONTACT: c/o Classic Communications

38 Mechanic Street, Suite 101, Foxboro, MA 02035

Phone: (508) 698-6810; Fax: (508) 698-6811

rotc@crwa.org

www.charlesriver.org

The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center’s 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction

2011-10-14T11:35:00.004-04:00

The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that is dedicated to ending sexual violence through healing and social change.

BARCC provides comprehensive, FREE services, which include counseling, legal advocacy, case management, a 24-hour hotline, a medical accompaniment program, and community outreach and education to victims of rape and their family members, as well communities in the greater Boston area. We are the oldest independent rape crisis center in the state, and the second-oldest in the nation.

On Thursday, November 17^th, 2011 BARCC will celebrate its 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction. This is an inspiring evening that brings together over 400 of BARCC’s most loyal supporters, for three important reasons:

- To celebrate individuals who have made a significant contribution to the fight against sexual violence;

- To honor BARCC’s 140 program volunteers, who make up the backbone of BARCC’s services; and

- To raise much-needed funds so that BARCC can continue to provide its services at absolutely no cost to those who access them.

The evening will feature fine food & drink and silent & live auctions to raise money for BARCC’s free services. BARCC will also present annual awards to our 2011 Champion for Change, Chico Colvard for his award-winning film Family Affair, and to BARCC’s extraordinary volunteers. Cocktail hour and silent auction will begin at 6:00 pm.

What: The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center’s 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction

When: Thursday, November 17^th 2011 at 6:00pm

- Cocktail hour and Silent Auction from 6:00-7:00pm

- Live Auction, Dinner, and Awards from at 7:00pm

Where: Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge

Price: One ticket is $150, One pair is $300, and a Gala Table is $1,500.

To buy tickets: - Call: 617-492-8306

- Email: events@barcc.org

- Website: http://www.barcc.org/join/events/champions-gala

5th Annual Apples & Wine Event - Bluegrass & Brews Festival!

2011-09-22T09:52:00.021-04:00

SOLD OUT!!!

All those who already bought tickets online meet at 10 on Sunday Oct 23...

See you for our 5th annual trip!

Thank you!

Apples & Wine Event - Bluegrass & Brews Festival!Join OYFP Boston and 50 others on our annual wine tour!

100% of proceeds go to helping fight hunger at the Friday Night Supper Program (FNSP). FNSP provides meals to homeless and hungry Bostonians EVERY FRIDAY night near the Boston Common.

Included in your $35 ticket
(1) Light Breakfast & Coffee
(2) Transportation to and from Boston
(3) Free admission to Nashoba's Bluegrass & Brews Festival
(4) Proceeds donated to Friday Night Supper Program
(5) Winery tour & glass
(6) Live Music
(7) Fun

Details
Date: Sunday, October 23
Time: 10:00am - 6:00 pm
Meet Up: Panera Bread Brookline
Trip to: Nashoba Winery 92 Wattaquadock Hill Rd. Bolton, MA 01740
Partner: Friday Night Supper Program
Cost: $35

Times
10AM - Breakfast is available from 10 to 10:45 am
11AM - Buses will leave from Panera Bread Brookline
12PM - Buses arrive at Nashoba Valley Winery
5 PM - Buses leave Nashoba at 5pm and to return to Panera Bread Brookline
6 PM - Buses will arrive at Panera Bread Brookline

Check out the Facebook Event Page!

Be the Change with SAALT!

2011-08-12T13:54:00.002-04:00

Who: South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT)

What: Be the Change 2011- A National Day of Service

Where: throughout Boston

When: Saturday, October 1st, 2011

Partners: Various community organizations and nonprofits in Boston

Cost:FREE

Each year, SAALT coordinates Be the Change (BTC), an annual national day of service to inspire and foster civic engagement and community building through volunteerism and community service. Thousands of participants across the country contribute numerous hours of community service in the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's famous quote, "Be the change you wish to see in the world."

In 2010, nearly 3,500 volunteers participated in 15 cities and over 60 campuses!

This year, BTC falls on Saturday, October 1st. The 2011 theme is "Rise Up in Service."

We invite you to to join us for Be the Change 2011 in Boston! Be part of our national movement of South Asian American civic engagement and community building through service! It’s great to develop and sustain community no matter where your home is.

If you or your organization are interested in volunteering for Be the Change 2011, contact Priya Patel at priyaspatel.1990@gmail.com

Volunteers Needed for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

2011-08-03T15:28:00.001-04:00

Volunteers Needed for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Donate your time to help end breast cancer

(Boston, MA) – Volunteers are needed for the 19^th annual American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at the DCR Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade in Boston. Volunteers are needed the day before the walk, Saturday, October 1, to help prepare snack bags for our walkers, as well as help us set up for the following day’s event. On Sunday, October 2, volunteers are needed to help set up and clean up, cheer on walkers, and act as route monitors. Since its inception in 1993, nearly seven million walkers nationwide have raised more than $400 million to help fight breast cancer. In 2010 alone, more than 800,000 walkers across the country collected more than $60 million to support the American Cancer Society’s mission to save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. To volunteer, or for more information, call 1-800-227-2345, email strides_boston@cancer.org, or visit cancer.org/stridesonline.

Join EPIP Boston at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston to watch “The Art of the Ste

2011-08-01T11:28:00.003-04:00

Join EPIP Boston at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston to watch “The Art of the Steal,” a provocative film about one of the art world’s most fascinating controversies. It chronicles the long and dramatic struggle for control of the Barnes Foundation, a private collection of art valued at more than $25 billion. The role of the foundation world feeds the controversy. A brief facilitated discussion will follow the film. Tickets will be available for $8.00, online or day of at the MFA. Click here to purchase tickets from the MFA box office.

When: Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Time: 6:30pm—8:10pm (film), 8:10pm—8:45pm (discussion)

Note: We encourage you to explore the Museum either before or after the film as Wednesday nights are donation night at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Where: Alfond Auditorium, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Avenue of the Arts, 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115

Host: EPIP Boston

Tickets for film: Tickets will be available for $8.00, online or day of at the MFA. Click here to purchase tickets from the MFA box office.

OYFP Networking Event at the Pops

2011-06-06T23:00:00.004-04:00

Join OYFP and other young professionals for a networking event at the Pops on Thursday, June 23rd at 7pm.

The concert will include the music of George Gershwin and Richard Rodgers performed by Broadway stars Kathleen Brett and Ron Raines.

Included in this ticket package is a pre-concert reception at 7pm in the Beranak Room (light supper and complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks)! - Please enter through the Cohen Wing.

Cost: $40

Visit the following link for more information and to buy tickets:
www.bostonpops.org/onyourfeet

Hope to see you there!

Brides Against Breast Cancer Nationwide Tour of Gowns

2011-05-23T15:22:00.003-04:00

The Brides Against Breast Cancer Nationwide Tour of Gowns is returning to Boston on June 11-12 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel. They need volunteers to help with set up/tear down and to help brides find the gowns of their dreams! Proceeds benefit Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to granting wishes to terminal breast cancer patients.

SALE INFO:

Sheraton Boston Hotel

VIP Champagne Brunch: Saturday, June 11 from 10 AM - Noon

General Sale: Saturday, June 11 from Noon - 6 PM

General Sale: Sunday, June 12 from 10 AM - 6 PM

VOLUNTEER INFO:

Choose shift(s) above to reserve a spot. No tickets are required, but registration is necessary to reserve time slot. Please arrive 15 minutes before shift! Upon arrival, please check-in at the volunteer table and grab a t-shirt.

Feel free to sign up for multiple days and shifts. Feel free to invite your friends, family and co-workers -- even husbands and boyfriends (need guys to help with the heavy stuff!).

Where THEY Need Help

1. Registration - Signing in brides as they enter the sale (men can help).

2. Bride Greeter - This person will be inside the sale area and will direct brides on rules and how the sale area is set up (men can help).
3. Dress Runner - This person will help re-stock the dress racks from the fitting room "go back" racks (men can help).
4. Dressing Room Help - This person will be inside the dressing room and will assist the brides trying on gowns.
5. Dressing Room Attendant - This person will be inside the fitting room assisting the volunteers with "no deal" gowns - making sure the gowns are ready to return to the floor.

What to Wear

Please wear dressy attire, such as khaki, black or brown pants or skirt. Jeans are fine as long as there are no rips or holes! Each volunteer will be given a Brides Against Breast Cancer t-shirt to wear at the event. Don’t forget comfortable shoes!

Parking

Valet parking is available at the hotel and self parking at the mall nearby. There is also street parking in the area.

Bring Friends!

Invite friends, family and colleagues! We need men too, especially for set up, tear down and to help return gowns to the racks during the sale, so invite boyfriends, fiancés and brothers to help!

If you have any questions, please e-mail Brittney at brittney@makingmemories.org.

Fantastic Volunteer Opportunity with City Year!

2011-05-19T15:06:00.003-04:00

The Civic Engagement Team at City Year Boston will be hosting a service event on June 11th at the Richard J. Murphy Elementary School in Dorchester. The service day will include painting a community themed mural on one side of a 300 ft wall, then an interactive mural on the other side. The Mighty Murphy is one of the biggest schools in Boston and is surrounded by a vibrant and supportive community. The volunteer registration will begin at 9:00, and then the service will start at 9:30. Lunch will be provided at 12, then service will wrap up at around 2:30. This service day is free and all are welcome! If you would like more information or would like to sign up, feel free to contact Ashley Hackett at ahackett11@cityyear.org. Hope to see you there!

The Details
Date: June 11th
Time: 9:00-2:30
Cost: FREE
Where: Richard J. Murphy Elementary School
1 Worrell Street
Dorchester, Ma

Mark Albion at MTW!

2011-05-02T13:44:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday May 3rd at 6:30pm, More Than Words & AuthorsGlobe present Dr. Mark Albion as the featured speaker of Authors Series. Dr. Albion will discuss his book More Than Money.

Topic: More Than Money - Navigating a Fulfilling Career

As achievers, there are a lot of pressures from parents, peers, society, & student loans. Unsure of what to do, one makes what they think is their safest career choice, confident that they can get back to what they love later. In this interactive discussion, Dr. Albion will discuss a framework of 4 central questions & 12 lifelines to navigate people on their path to money & meaning.

So come on down to More Than Words to join in the interactive discussion with Dr. Albion!

RSVP: sharon@mtwyouth.org

Buy Book: More Than Money via Amazon

About the Author/Speaker:

Dr. Mark Albion is the co-creator of the More Than Money League which implements his work through seminars, coaching & online learning. Dr. Albion was a student & professor at Harvard for 20 years, after which he co-founded six organizations, including Net Impact. Most recently, he served in the Office of the President at Babson College, helping to integrate social values into the college. He has made over 600 speaking visits to business schools & written 7 books.

In 2010, Dr. Albion became the first social entrepreneur to receive the distinguished National Award for Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year, presented at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. He is the creator of a 3-minute animated movie The Good Life Parable: An MBA Meets a Fisherman, winner of 4 film festivals for best short film.

About More Than Words:

More Than Words is a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers youth who are in the foster care system, court involved, homeless, or out of school to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business.

About AuthorsGlobe:

AuthorsGlobe Educates, Empowers & Connects a global community with Thought Leadership.

The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Boston

2011-04-26T09:34:00.002-04:00

Hope burns bright. The light from the luminaria bags at Relay For Life reminds us of those we lost and inspires us to find a cure for this disease. Make a difference in the fight against cancer by joining the Relay For Life of Boston. Form a team and come participate in this moving and life-changing overnight event that celebrates cancer survivors, remembers loved ones lost and fights back against a disease that takes too much.

What:
The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Boston

Where:
Moakley Park
William J. Day Blvd.
South Boston, MA

When:
Friday, June 17 at 7p.m.—Saturday, June 18 at 7a.m.

Cause:
Cancer research; programs and services for cancer patients and their families.

Cost:
$10 registration fee

Other Info:
Relay For Life is a fundraiser and we ask that team members raise what money they can for the fight against cancer. There is no fundraising minimum and all are invited to attend. For more information or to sign-up, please visit www.relayforlife.org/BostonMA or contact Lesley Whiting at (781) 314-2683 or lesley.whiting@cancer.org.

24th Annual Beyond Shelter Gala

2011-04-06T12:19:00.002-04:00

Over twenty five restaurants are participating in this year’s event, including Eastern Standard, Union Bar & Grill, Treat Cupcake Bar, Hamersley’s Bistro, Flour Bakery + Cafe, Ashmont Grill, Aquitaine, Tavolo, and The Fireplace. Narragansett Beer is the official beer sponsor for the event. The annual gala also features a raffle and live auction with items including Red Sox and New England Patriots autographed sports memorabilia, concert tickets, fine art, jewelry, and luxury city weekend getaway packages. 100% of event proceeds will benefit Friends of Boston’s Homeless.

Who:

Host Mayor Thomas M. Menino

Friends of Boston’s Homeless Board of Directors including John Rosenthal

Local artist Sidewalk Sam

What:

24^th Annual Beyond Shelter Gala:

Where:

House of Blues
15 Lansdowne Street
Boston, MA

When:

April 28^th, 7-10pm

Cause:

Friends of Boston’s Homeless

Cost:

$100.00/person ($80 is tax deductible)

Other Info:

For further information and to purchase tickets visit www.fobh.org or call (617) 755-3208.

More Than Words & Authors Globe!

2011-04-04T13:16:00.002-04:00

Join More Than Words & Authors Globe at the new Authors Globe Business Book Club at More Than Words Bookstore & Cafe in Waltham, MA. They'll be discussing Chip & Dan Heath's New Year Times & Wall Street Journal Bestseller Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard. There will also be the opportunity to meet other conscious business leaders & professionals in the Boston area.

When: TUES, April 5th, 6:30 - 8:30 pm EST

Where: More Than Words Bookstore & Cafe, 376 Moody St, Waltham, MA

Buy Book: Please consider ordering SWITCH at More Than Words that Chip & Dan Heath have generously donated to this award-winning youth-led social enterprise. Everyone can donate used books & order books!

Steward Home, Hospice, and Private Care NEEDS Volunteers!

2011-03-24T10:10:00.002-04:00

Who: THE TIME IS NOW………Become a Hospice Volunteer

What: Support a patient in need of companion visit, errands, scrap booking, letter writing or simply listening to someone’s incredible stories.

Where: Our patients are located anywhere from North Reading to Woburn to Boston and as far as Braintree, Massachusetts.

When: Two day training scheduled for April 16^th and April 17^th, 2011

Cause: Support our all age Hospice Patients.

Partners: Steward Hospitals, Steward Physician Network, Steward Research Institutes.

Cost: FREE

Contact:

Marilin Gerez

Volunteer Coordinator/Admin Assistant

Steward Home Care, Hospice, and Private Care

(Formally known as Caritas)

271 Waverly Oaks Road

Waltham, Ma. 02452

1(781) 392-2230 ext. 2247

1(781) 392-2240-fax

Marilin.Gerez@CaritasChristi.org

Volunteer with the 26th AIDS Walk Boston!

2011-03-22T15:38:00.001-04:00

Volunteering for AIDS Walk Boston is a great way to both support the fight against AIDS and also have some fun! Each year, AIDS Action Committee relies on hundreds of volunteers to help serve the 15,000+ attendees that participate in the Walk and the Larry Kessler 5K Run.

Once again AIDS Action Committee is looking for talented, dedicated and hard working individuals to fill the following volunteer positions:

-Pre-Event Office Support

-Course Marshals

-Crowd Control

-Finish Area Volunteers

-Registration Volunteers

-Run Volunteers

-Post Event Office Support

-Special Skill Areas: Truck/Van Drivers and Photographers

Register (HERE) as a Volunteer for AIDS Walk Boston 2011 (www.aidswalkboston.org) and learn more about each of the necessary AIDS Walk Boston volunteer positions for Sunday, June 5^th.

For more information about volunteering at AIDS Walk Boston contact Vibe Drostgaard at (617) 450-1506 orvdrostgaard@aac.org

Date: Sunday, June 5^th
Time: 7AM-2PM
Cost: FREE

Big Apple's Circus' Circus of the Senses

2011-03-11T13:57:00.003-05:00

Help the Big Apple's Circus" Circus of the Senses is a unique performance of the Big Apple Circus that provides children with vision or hearing impairments and other special needs an opportunity to experience the excitement of classical circus under the big top.

The special features of this performance include a live, detailed Audio Description of the acts broadcast through wireless headsets, Braille and Large-print programs that contain vivid descriptions of each act, and American Sign Language interpreters stationed throughout the tent. After the performance there is a Touch Session, where a small, pre-selected, group of vision-impaired children are invited to come into the ring to meet our performers, pet some of the show animals and touch some of the show props and acrobatic equipment.

What you will be doing:

Volunteers will assist in handing out programs, assisting children from buses to tent, and helping with post show Touch Session. Note that Big Apple Circus requested Cell #'s incase they need to contact volunteers at the last minute regarding the show.

To sign up, fill-out the form found here: http://circusofsenses4711.eventbrite.com/

Big Apple Circus' "Circus of the Senses"

WHERE: One City Hall Square (Government Center. Green Line T)

WHEN: Thursday, April 07, 2011 from 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM

THE FIRST PARISH OF WATERTOWN & THE FOLK SONG SOCIETY OF GREATER BOSTON PRESENT: Knockabout

2011-03-07T10:13:00.002-05:00

Saturday, March 12, 2011 8:00pm

The First Parish of Watertown

35 Church Street, Watertown, MA

A benefit concert for The Friday Night Supper Program in Boston

Ballads, chanteys and songs of the sea are the mainstay of "Knockabout". Colin de la Barre, Barry O'Brien, Rose Sheehan, Peter and Joanne Souza have spliced together many nautical tunes that represent both new and old world music with a wealth of knowledge and talent. Vocals and harmonies are a major part of performances mixed with knowledge and lots of good fun. All members of "Knockabout" reside in Gloucester and Essex, MA.

The Friday Night Supper Program provides a warm, nutritious, home-cooked meal to the

homeless and hungry people of Boston in a safe and dignified environment every Friday

night. They serve approximately 150 meals every Friday to some of Boston's most vulnerable citizens, many of whom face a constant struggle not only for food but for understanding and friendship as well. The program also strives to provide basic needs such as clothing

Admission $20 - Coffee & Refreshments will be served

For more information go to : fssgb.org or fpwatertown.org

To purchase tickets online go to BrownPaperTickets.com

To reserve tickets call (617) 924 - 6143

Local Charity Supports AIDS Orphans in Kenya - “One Village at a Time”

2011-03-02T15:02:00.001-05:00

Local Charity Supports AIDS Orphans in Kenya

“One Village at a Time” to celebrate fourth annual “Harambee” fundraiser

Boston, MA…What started as the vision and compassion of one woman has blossomed

into a thriving organization providing invaluable services to some of Kenya’s most

needy. “One Village at a Time” is the work of Susan Gross. Gross, who traveled to

Nambale, Kenya in 2002 witnessed first hand the loss and devastation that the AIDS

epidemic has had on children. “One Village” was then created and the work of the

non profit now empowers African villages to create small, sustainable programs for

AIDS orphans and their villages. “One Village” will hold its fourth annual “Harambee”

Swahili for a “joyous get together” on Saturday April 30th in the South End of Boston.

The evening will include an open bar, delicious food from B.Good, live music and

an impressive selection of silent auction items including a one week getaway to

Moonlight Basin Montana, Red Sox tickets, Golf at Blue Hills Country Club and much

more. “One Village is a labor of love,” says Founder and Executive Director Susan

Gross “After seeing the way AIDS has ravaged villages and torn apart families I had to

do something”. “Now through this charity, we can all help and make a huge difference”.

Every dollar raised for “One Village” goes directly to helping the children and their

villages. “One Village” and its Executive Director travel to Nambale, Kenya to work with

the villagers to develop new coalitions and deliver donations to ensure that no dollar is

wasted.

Tickets are $45 advanced purchase and $50 at the door.

$25 helps an AIDS widow/mother start a business

$50 sends a girl to secondary school for one year

$100 helps a group of widows start their own cooperative with our micro-finance

program.

WHAT: “One Village” Fourth Annual Harambee

WHEN: Saturday April 30th, 2011 5pm- 9pm

WHERE: City Year Headquarters

287 Columbus Ave

Boston, MA 02116

Located near the Orange Line at Back Bay Station

Parking Lots at Dartmouth St (617 266-9046) and Clarendon St. (617 275-0151)

WHO: Friends of “One Village”

WHY: To make a difference in the lives of those devastated by AIDS

Tickets can be purchased on line at: http://www.onevillageatatime.org

About One Village at a Time

One Village at a Time is a non-profit, non-government organization, which strives to create small, sustainable programs for AIDS orphans and their villages. One Village is dedicated to a strong, steady approach to eliminating the burden AIDS orphans place on isolated rural villages. The center of rural African economic life is the family. So in addition to everything else, children orphaned by AIDS lose access to the economic engines which can sustain them. One Village helps their partner villages muster their own resources, increase the interdependence among the families, and increase the local economic resources so that all members of the community benefit.

Nurturing Hope, Restoring Health by connecting resources One Village at a Time

Cook & Serve!

2011-03-01T10:50:00.002-05:00

Volunteers are needed to cook and serve food to hungry Bostonians!

Volunteers are needed on March 19th at 4:00 at Toscanini's (899 Main Street in Cambridge) where they will serve the home cooked family dinner.

This event will be a partnership with The Boston Volunteer Meetup and the Cambridge Community Shelter.

The event is free and the number of seats is limited.

To learn more and discover who else is going: http://www.bostonvolunteer.org/events/16172363/?eventId=16172363&action=detail

Dash for a Difference for Boston Cares!

2011-02-25T14:52:00.001-05:00

Dash for a Difference for Boston Cares!

An amazing five-hour adventure in volunteerism and teamwork.

Teams of "Dashers" will gather in downtown Boston at 9 a.m., when each will receive the first of the 10-12 destinations they must visit during the competition. At each destination, teams must complete tasks in order to have a passport stamped and receive their clue to the next destination. The majority of tasks will be mini-service projects; while others may be learning-oriented, where teams must piece together clues to gain points; and others will be "just for fun" assignments. All teams will be invited to toast the day's successes with snacks and beer at their final stop - the Samuel Adams Celebration of Service.

Where:
Throughout the Boston area.

When:
Saturday April 30, 2011, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

Cause:
The Dash for a Difference benefits Boston Cares, a non-profit organization that mobilizes more than 25,000 volunteers annually in support of Greater Boston schools and non-profit agencies. The Dash also benefits the community agencies who will be aided by the collective efforts of more than 200 volunteers during the event.

Cost:
Each individual participant is responsible for raising a minimum of $100 in pledges.

Other Info:
For more information or to sign up: Visit www.bostoncares.org, or contact Lynn Pray,lpray@bostoncares.org, 617-422-0910 x200.

Team Up with Year Up 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

2011-02-23T11:13:00.001-05:00

The Team Up with Year Up 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament is an excellent opportunity to make a difference for one of the most vulnerable segments of our community and enjoy some friendly competition.

When: Saturday, March 5, 9AM to 2PM

Where: Basketball City, 35 Lomasney Way, Boston, MA (near the TD Garden)

The registration fee is $250 per team of 4, or $120 team of 2 (matched with two YearUp students) and includes tournament play (this is a double elimination tournament with 32 teams), prizes for the tournament winners, a silent auction, a t-shirt, snacks, and lunch.

For more information about the tournament, pleasecontact Michael Goldstein at (617) 542-1533x1568 or mgoldstein@yearup.org.

HA! HA! HA! Rebuilding Together Boston Comedy Night

2011-02-04T09:50:00.001-05:00

16th Annual Comedy Night

Join Rebuilding Together Boston (RTB) for an evening of laughter and help preserve affordable housing and homeownership and revitalize neighborhoods in the City of Boston.

WHAT: Spend the evening laughing with Mistress of Ceremonies Susan Wornick, WCVB-TV, and Boston's BEST comedians, and support RTB's efforts to repair the homes of the city’s economically disadvantaged homeowners and non-profit-owned facilities.

WHY: Charity, cocktails and comedy! What could be better than helping to rebuild homes through laughter?

WHEN: Thursday, March 10th. 6:30-doors open; program-7:30 pm

WHERE: Nick's Comedy Stop, 100 Warrenton Street, Boston

COST: Tickets: $40.00 (Great auction and raffle)

LEARN MORE/BUY TICKETS: www.rtboston.org or call 617-971-0058.

Simone Auster, President

Rebuilding Together Boston

PO Box 301209

Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

617-971-0058

http://www.rtboston.org

WalkBoston's Annual Meeting

2011-02-01T10:49:00.002-05:00

Join WalkBoston for its annual meeting on March 24^th, 2011. Attendees will learn how WalkBoston is making Massachusetts more pedestrian friendly. This year’s theme is “Good Walking is Good Business” and the featured speaker will be Carol Coletta of CEO’s for Cities.

Where:

Wilmer Hale, 60 State Street, 26^th floor, downtown Boston

When:

5:30 enjoy complimentary wine and nibbles

6:00 program begins

Cost:

$20 suggested donation

More information at www.walkboston.org

RSVP at info@walkboston.org

Kathryn Henderson

Community Outreach Coordinator

YWCA Boston

140 Clarendon Street, Suite 403

Boston, MA 02116

P: (617) 585-5423

F: (617) 585-5499

E: khenderson@ywcaboston.org

W: www.ywcaboston.org

Business Book Club

2011-01-31T13:32:00.002-05:00

More Than Words with AuthorsGlobe is hosting a Business Book Club on Thursday, 2/10 from 6:30-8:30pm!

This event is free and open to the public! The book they will be discussing is Drive by Dan Pink. Drive is a one-of-a-kind book that will change how one thinks about motivation. Participate in the book club, and don't forget to browse MTW's great selection of books and get something tasty from the cafe! Purchase Drive directly from MTW here on their website.

Business Book Club - Featuring Drive by Dan Pink
Where: More Than Words Bookstore & Cafe
376 Moody St. Waltham, MA
When: Thursday, 2/10, 6:30-8:30pm
RSVP by 2/7: sandra@authorsglobe.com

Microbrews for Microloans

2011-01-27T14:37:00.001-05:00

Microbrews for Microloans

A night out to support MicroLoan Foundation USA in the oganization's work to end poverty in sub-Saharan Africa through microfinance.

When: Monday, January 31st

6:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Where: Lir Irish Pub and Restaurant

903 Boylston Street, Boston

Tickets can be purchased at here.

$15 in advance; $20 at the door

(Includes drink ticket, appetizers and raffle)

For more information please visit us on Facebook.

D. R. Finch Music Foundation EVENT

2011-01-27T12:47:00.002-05:00

The D. R. Finch Music Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit with the mission to provide jazz performances, workshops, and seminars for the general public, is hosting an interactive jazz performance workshop.

Youth are encouraged to attend, but all are welcome. The afternoon will be part performance, part conversation as the audience is invited to participate and learn about the process of creating music. It will feature the Kevin Harris Project, a Boston based trio who will explain the meaning of improvisation and its importance within the context of music and jazz. Come hear original music and jazz standards and learn more about jazz in our world.

Light refreshments will be served.

Who: D. R. Finch Music Foundation
Where: Honan-Allston Public library

When: Saturday, January 29 from 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Cause: Music Education

Partners: Kevin Harris Project

Cost: FREE and open to the public

Other Info: Any questions, contact kwhipkey@drfmusic.org

BETA "NOT-ME! Self Defense"

2011-01-24T14:07:00.004-05:00

Join "The Boston Volunteer Meetup. Who else likes to help others?" and help "NOT-ME! Self Defense" perfect their workshop before its released to the public and learn the techniques and tactics of safe interactions with strangers.

This coed class will involve a lively discussion and movement. It is designed to explain and demonstrate the three basic levels of interactive communication in relation to real life city situations.

These three levels are:

-Visual Communication - i.e. Body language

-Verbal Communication - i.e. Using your voice

-Physical Communication - i.e. Physical contact and touch

Knowledge is Power. Class Length - 1 hour, Class size - 20 people!

As VOLUNTEERS you will be helping to perfect the class.

The size of the room is small so the number of spots is very limited. This self-defense training will fill up fast. You need to RSVP on MeetUp to secure your spot! Also, link to the Not-Me Blog!

Join Year Up's Mentor Appreciation Celebration!

2011-01-10T14:22:00.003-05:00

Year Up is a one-year, intensive training program that provides urban young adults 18-24, with a unique combination of technical and professional skills, college credits, an educational stipend and corporate internship.

Their success is their graduates -- enabling them to move on to full-time employment and higher education. Year Up is about providing opportunities for urban young adults to demonstrate their true potential. They have achieved excellent results to date:

100% placement of qualified students into internships
95% of interns meet or exceed partner expectations

84% of graduates placed in full or part-time positions
$15/hr average wage at placement

If you would like to learn how YOU can become a mentor - come to Market Wed, Jan. 26th.

Jan. 15th Service Day with City Year!

2010-12-29T11:31:00.006-05:00

On January 15th the Civic Engagement Team with City Year Boston will host a volunteer event at the Mattahunt Elementary School.

They are on the hunt for volunteers to help them revitalize a school that has been overlooked due to cuts in the Boston Public School facility budget. On this service day, there will be a baseball themed mural with the school's inspirational motto flowing throughout the space, a stained-glass 'Mattahunt' mural in the gym lobby, as well as organizing and creating a card catalogue for the library.

If you are interested, please to contact Ashley Hackett AHackett11@cityyear.org for information.

Happy Holidays!

Volunteers needed for next week's Marathon Sports Jingle Bell Run!

2010-12-08T09:58:00.005-05:00

7-8 volunteers are needed for each of the five

Marathon Sports Jingle Bell Run next week.

Check out their Facebook Page.

Contact Pauline: BAEvents (at) aol.com

Time	Sunday, December 19 · 11:00am - 1:00pm

Location	Davis Square Somerville, MA

Created By	BA Event Promotions

More Info	Includes: 5Km Run & Walk Finisher Medal - bottle opener w/ribbon Cool Colorful Short Sleeve Tee Shirt Festive Somerville Post Race Party with our Participating Sponsors And More! See http://www.baevents.com/jinglebell/ for details.

2011 Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race

2010-12-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

Every year about 1,500 people compete in the 2011 Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race and anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 spectators come to watch and enjoy the activities at the finish line festival. Admission is free for all spectators and it is a family-friendly event. All proceeds benefit the Charles River Watershed Association and their efforts to keep the Charles River clean and safe for all.

WHAT: The 29th anniversary of the Run of the Charles Canoe & Kayak

WHEN: Saturday, April 30, 2011 First race check-in at 8:30 AM. Races continuing all daylong. Concluding at approximately 4:30 PM at DCR’s Artesani Park.

WHERE: On the Charles River, with races starting in Dedham, Needham, Newton, and Allston. All races finish at DCR’s Artesani Park on Soldiers Field Road in Brighton where race fans and families gather to enjoy the free Finish Line Festival.

WHO: 1,500 canoe and kayak enthusiasts, professional, amateur, and recreational, from throughout the US and Canada, ages 12 and up, compete in a variety of races, including the$5,000 Professional Flat water Canoe Marathon, the 24-Mile Relay Race, and 19-, 9-, and 6-mile races. 5,000 – 10,000 spectators line the riverbanks to watch the Run of the Charles.

FEATURING: Corporate and college team challenges Family fun at the Finish Line Festival –highlighted this year with participants and spectators getting the opportunity to make history by setting the Guinness World Record for “Most People Throwing Rubber Chickens at the Same Time”

ADMISSION: FREE admission to the Finish Line Festival at DCR’s Artesani Park. Race entry fees range from $35- $55 per individual to $350 - $400 per relay race team.

Questions, entries and volunteer information contact: rotc@crwa.org http://www.charlesriver.org/

CHOMP + ROLL!

2010-11-24T06:37:00.003-05:00

No cost to enter. Just Chomp + Roll to your heart's delight.

Proceeds from all pizza sales will go to support theMOVE's powerful work getting folks out onto farms, to connect them with the systems that sustain us daily. They'll also be raffling off prizes and awarding the highest score of the night with a Flatbread/Sacco's gift card! Please check out the facebook invite + RSVP if you can make it.

Chomp + Roll!
when: Tue 11/30
where: Flatbread/Sacco's @ 45 Day St / Somerville
cost: no cost to enter

GREAT FUTURES START HERE.

2010-11-10T13:23:00.009-05:00

Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middlesex County for food, drinks, and fun to celebrate 37 years of caring for kids!

The Boys & Girls Club of Middlesex County serves youth ages 6-18 in

Cambridge, Somerville, Medford and now Everett!

Nov.18, Microsoft New England Research and Development Center 6-9 pm. Our community's youth need your support!

For more info. and tickets, visit the website.

Join me and OYFP at the event!

Meal and a Movie: The Hunger Season

2010-09-09T11:00:00.001-04:00

Have a meal and a move on Thursday, September 30th to support one of Boston's BEST hunger prevention nonprofit organizations.

This event will be held at the Friday Night Supper Program from 6 to 8pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

We will be screening The Hunger Season. "Across the world a massive food crisis is unfolding. Climate Change, increasing consumption in China and India, the dash for Biofuels are causing hitherto unimagined food shortages and rocketing prices."

Please join me in support of FNSP at Meal and a Movie.

RSVP info (at) fridaynightsupper.org.

MeetUp:

http://www.bostonvolunteer.org/calendar/14710809/

WITHOUT FUNDING GRASSROOTS GROUP BUILDS A MOVEMENT

2010-08-09T15:25:00.002-04:00

Marking Four Years of Building a Cross-Issue Progressive Network in Boston

1400 Members, 80 Events, and Countless Connections Made Since 2006

Boston-based network Socializing for Justice will commemorate its fourth anniversary with an Open House event called Connecting for Justice on September 16th from 6-9PM at Lir Irish Pub on Boylston Street in Boston. Held three times a year, this event draws hundreds of progressives of all stripes - diverse by age, race, gender, sexual orientation, newness to Boston and experience with activism. The purpose is to build a cross-issue progressive community, network and movement in Boston while putting the social back in social justice. Newcomers and long-time members will come together at Connecting for Justice to celebrate the remarkable success of this member-driven, volunteer-run grassroots group.

Socializing for Justice is the brainchild of local activist, community organizer and event planner Robbie Samuels. For almost 10 years, Robbie has been involved with Boston’s progressive community through a number of organizations. He has been recognized for his efforts - in 2009 he was the inaugural recipient of the History Project’s Lavender Rhino Award and the Theater Offensive’s Gender Hero Award. In creating SoJust, Robbie has combined fun, socializing and cross-issue mobilization as never before.

The vision for SoJust comes from Robbie’s firsthand experience. He wanted to address what he was repeatedly finding in his work – that individuals, organizations, and campaigns stunted their effectiveness by focusing solely on single-issue work. He shares, “There was a definite void that I thought SoJust could fill. I thought that if we could get enough people representing enough progressive issues into a room, we might be able to engender cross-issue collaboration and more effectively fight for social justice.”

At their “birthday” event participants can experience the connecting power of Socializing for Justice for themselves. There will be Action Stations to link attendees with local organizations, a Catalyst Corner with “I’m Looking For” and “Ask Me About” tags, a Jobs Board filled with openings from other social change groups and a free Literature Table. These features mirror options on SoJust’s website, www.sojust.org, an online hub where social justice events, job and volunteer opportunities from other social change organizations are cross-posted on the Calendar and Message Board.

Get involved with Boston’s fastest-growing cross-issue progressive community. Network with like-minded progressives and find the space and opportunities you’ve been searching for. In the words of Robbie, ““If you think this group MIGHT be for you – it is.” Learn more and RSVP for Connecting for Justice at www.sojust.org.

Volunteer at the West End House

2010-08-06T08:06:00.015-04:00

What: My Summer in the City

When: Friday, August 27th from 4:00-9:00PM

Where: 105 Allston Street, Allston, MA 02134 (T accessible)

My Summer in the City is a city wide initiative funded by the Boston Foundation that encourages families, teens and children to spend time in public areas by hosting free activities in neighborhood parks. Volunteers are needed to help prepare and serve dinner to families as well as interact with kids and teens during the back to school basketball tournament!

Contact natalie.bennett@oyfp.org to sign up
Limit: 7 volunteers

http://www.westendhouse.org/

Can't volunteer at the West End House? Well, the Friday Night Supper Program is in need of clothing, especially men's pants and shorts (all sizes), medium polo shirts, belts and new socks. Please feel free to drop off donations to the Arlington Street Church at 351 Bolyston Street.

Spirit of Service 2010

2010-06-09T17:39:00.006-04:00

This event is an opportunity to learn how you can make a commitment to your community. The Spirit of Service is free for individuals and for organizations. If you are an organization and would like to reserve a table, or for more information, please contact OYFP.

At this free networking event INDIVIDUALS will:
· Discover opportunities for community involvement in Boston.
· Meet other individuals who embody the Spirit of Service.
· Learn what it's like to join executive boards, advisory boards and young professional committees.
· Join, encourage, and promote an era of responsibility!

At this free networking event ORGANIZATIONS will:
· Promote their cause and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
· Recruit young professionals for their advisory boards & various committees.
· Join, encourage, and promote an era of responsibility.

Event Website: http://oyfp.org/BOS/events/view/189/
Event 2009 Website: http://www.oyfp.org/BOS/events/view/168/
Venue Website: http://thegrandcanalboston.com/
Twitter: @OYFPboston
Hashtag: #SoS2

RSVP & Questions: John.Ryan (at) oyfp.org

The Details

Date: Wednesday, July 14th
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: The Grand Canal patio
57 Canal Street
Boston, MA 02114
*Near The Garden
(617) 523-1112
Partner: Many Boston Nonprofits
Cost: FREE

Volunteer this Thursday at the West End House

2010-05-25T20:35:00.017-04:00

If you enjoy being outdoors and helping kids, The West End House for Boys and Girls in Allston needs help clearing out and rebuilding a garden this Thursday!

When: This Thursday, May 27^th from 12PM to 5PM

Where: West End House Club, 105 Allston St, Allston, MA 02134

What: Come and demo a fire pit, clean weeds, trim hedges, and build a raised vegetable garden in the outdoor space off the art room!

What to wear: Comfy clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and closed toe shoes

Please contact Robyn at reastwood@westendhouse.org if interested or need more information!

www.westendhouse.org

Kentucky Derby Day Event THIS Saturday

2010-04-26T16:29:00.004-04:00

I wanted to let you all know that OYFP will be hosting a Kentucky Derby Day Event THIS Saturday at GLOBE. Not only is it completely fun to dress up and wear amazingly big hats, but you can win prizes as well. In typical OYFP fashion, ALL of your money will be benefiting Friday Night Supper Program. Who doesn't want to have fun and support and support Boston's homeless population as well.

Price of ticket includes:

A Mint Julep drink
Tea Sandwiches
Chance to win several different prizes

We even have a photographer coming to take pictures of you and your Derby Day Flair! So come on out and support a good cause with OYFP!

In uncertainty I am certain we have only one story.

2010-03-19T10:30:00.007-04:00

A child may ask, “What is the world’s story about?” And a grown man or woman may wonder, “What way will the world go? How does it end and , while we’re at it, what’s the story about?”

I believe that there is one story in the world, and only one, that has frightened and inspired us, so that we live in a Pearl White serial of continuing thought and wonder. Humans are caught – in their lives, in their thoughts, in their hungers and ambitions, in their avarice and cruelty, and in their kindness and generosity too – in a net of good and evil. I think this is the only story we have and that it occurs on all levels of feeling and intelligence. Virtue and vice were warp and woof of our first consciousness, and they will be the fabric of our last, and this despite any changes we may impose on field and river and mountain, on economy and mangers.

There is no other story. A man, after he has brushed off the dust and chips of his life, will have left only the hard, clean questions: Was it good or was it evil? Have I done well – or ill?

Herodotus, in the Persian War, tells a story of how Croesus, the richest and most favored king of his time, asked Solon the Athenian a leading question. He would not have asked it if he had not been worried about the answer. “Who” he asked, “is the luckiest person in the world” He must have been eaten with doubt and hungry for reassurance. Solon told him of three lucky people in old times. And Croesus more than likely did not listen, so anxious was he about himself. And when Solon did not mention him, Croesus was forced to say, “Do you not consider me lucky?”

Solon did not hesitate in his answer. “How can I tell?” he said. “You aren’t dead yet.”

And this answer must have haunted Croesus dismally as his lucky disappeared, and his wealth and his kingdom. And as he was being burned on a tall fire, he may have thought of it and perhaps wished he had not asked or not been answered.

And in our time, when a man dies – if he has had wealth and influence and power and all the vestments that arouse envy, and after the living take stock of the dead man’s property and his eminence and works and monuments – the question is still there: Was his life good or was it evil? – which is another way of putting Coresus’s question. Envies are gone, and the measuring stick is: “Was he loved or was he hated? Is his death felt as a loss or does a kind of joy come of it?”

I remember clearly the deaths of three men. One was the richest man of the century, who, having clawed his way to wealth through the souls and bodies of men, spent many years trying to buy back the love he had forfeited and by that process performed great service to the world and, perhaps, had much more than balanced the evils of his rise. I was on a ship when he died. The news was posted on the bulletin board, and nearly everyone received the news with pleasure. Several said, “Thank God that son of a bitch is dead.”

Then there was a man, smart as Satan, who, lacking some perception of human dignity and knowing all too well every aspect of human weakness and wickedness, used his special knowledge to warp men, to buy men to bribe and threaten and seduce until he found himself in a position of great power. He clothed his motives in the names of virtue, and I have wondered whether he ever knew that no gift will ever buy back a man’s love when you have removed his self-love. A bribed man can only hate his briber. When this man died the nation rang with praise and, just beneath, with gladness that he was dead.

There was a third man, who perhaps made many errors in performance but whose effective life was devoted to making men brave and dignified and good in a time when they were poor and frightened and when ugly forced were loose in the world to utilize their fears. This man was hated by the few. When he died the people burst into tears in the streets and their minds wailed, “What can we do now? How can we go on without him?”

In uncertainty I am certain that underneath their topmost layers of frailty men want to be good and want to be loved. Indeed, most of their vices are attempted short cuts to love. When a man comes to die, no matter what his talents and influence and genius, if he dies unloved his life must be a failure to him and his dying a cold horror. It seems to me that if you or I must choose between two courses of thought or action, we should remember our dying and try so to live that our death brings no pleasure to the world.

We have only one story. All novels, all poetry, are built in the neverending contest in ourselves of good and evil. And it occurs to me that evil must constantly respawn, while good, while virtue, is immortal. Vice has always a new fresh young face, while virtue is venerable as nothing else in the world is.

-Chapter 34, East of Eden 1952 by Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck.

Last night, at a very small gathering, I had the honor of meeting Dr. Joseph Murray, a brilliant man, 91 years young, recipient of the 1990 Nobel Prize in Medicine, Harvard Medical Professor Emeritus, author, pioneer, optimist and Steinbeck's Third Man.

Among the many things Dr. Murray said a few stuck with me. The first, his suggestion to read Steinbeck's Chapter 34 from East of Eden, copied above. The second, a quote: "The reason why this moment is so precious, is because it will never happen again."

Dr. Murray also expressed his enthusiasm to address a small living room sized gathering, as far different from the usual lecture theatre engagements. The wide range of the audience’s age from 22 years old to seniors added to depth of the anecdotes and lessons shared. Dr. Murray stressed the three ingredients he felt were necessary to achieve significant breakthroughs (in medicine) namely, “curiosity, imagination and perseverance.” He also mentioned a few factors to avoid such as “self-importance and obstinacy.”

I believe Dr. Murray suggested Steinbeck's "What is the world’s story about?" to point out that all we are is the sum of our choices. Every second we choose. At the end of our day, and even our life, these singular choices tell the story of our life.

Meeting Dr. Murray was an extreme privilege and something I hope I live long enough to always remember. Ultimately, his message to me was: We have only one story and we are the authors.

25th AIDS Walk in Boston-June 6th, 2010

2010-03-18T15:34:00.004-04:00

Now that the weather is getting warmer it's time to get out and stretch the legs. What better way then supporting the AIDS Walk Boston! Each year, AIDS Action Committee relies on hundreds of volunteers to help us serve the 15,000+ attendees that participate in the Walk and the Larry Kessler 5K Run.

They are once again looking for talented, dedicated and hard working individuals to fill the following volunteer positions:

Pre-Event Office Support
Course Marshals
Crowd Control
Finish Area Volunteers
Registration Volunteers
Run Volunteers
Walk Check Point Volunteers
Post Event Office Support
Special Skill Areas: Truck/Van Drivers and Photographers

Register as a Volunteer for AIDS Walk Boston 2010 and learn more about each of the necessary AIDS Walk Boston volunteer positions.

For more information about volunteering at AIDS Walk Boston contact Sarah MacPherson at (617) 437-1573 or smacpherson@aac.org

How to Help out Haiti in Boston

2010-02-09T09:47:00.008-05:00

The mainstream media no longer seems to be showcasing the devastation that is going on in Haiti, but that doesn't mean that the issue has been resolved. Actually far from it, and there are still ways you can help impact the lives of the Haitian Community right here in Boston.

From February 8th -21st several Boston area locations along with FUNTOSALUD International will be collecting donations to help Haiti rebuild. The locations are as follows:

Super Stop & Shop, 779 MacGrath Highway, Somerville, MA
Haitian Coalition of Somerville, 268C Rear Powder House Blvd, #17C
Centro Latino, 267 Broadway, Chelsea, MA 02150

Some of the items they are collecting include:

First Aid Supplies
NEW underwear
Shoes (particularly for children)
Baby supplies (bottles, diapers, etc)
Batteries
Flashlights
Tents
New Bed Sheets
New Towels
School supplies (Notebooks, pencils, book-bags, etc.)
Personal Hygiene items

Of course you can still make monetary donations or even volunteer directly for the 2010 Border Health/Mission DR/Haiti from April 17-30, 2010. For more information on how to directly volunteer, email volunteer@funtosaludintl.org.

Photo Courtesy of: http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RpikECiPo68/SA0_Xow4_gI/AAAAAAAAAB8/pUFqhCzJlMI/S660/haiti+needs+our+help.jpg

You're Fired

2010-01-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

I don't know about many of you but I am tired of hearing about the big banks in America, and the enormous payouts they give to some of their employees. If you were "top big to fail" then how come you needed a large sum for bailout money from the government a year ago?

You may not have heard of it yet but there is a

grassroots effort to Move your Money from the big banks to a smaller bank. The thought behind this movement is that smaller community banks did not and will not make the risky investments that brought us to the current financial crisis. As Arianna Huffington writes, "Consider it a withdrawl tax on the big banks for the negative service they provide by consistently ignoring the public interest."

I really like this idea, supporting small local banks. Sure I may have to walk a little farther to find an ATM who will not charge me a fee, but if that money isn't going to pay some enormous bonus/salary to an executive at a bank who doesn't care about the local community, then I am all for it!

To find a list of the small community banks in your area go to moveyourmoney.info/

For now I will put my best Donald Trump impression on, and go to my bank and say "You're Fired". I am still debating if I should add the hand gesture with it. Thoughts?

Picture courtesy of :http://www.medicalpracticetrends.com/tag/software/

Is NBC Really That Bad?

2010-01-21T13:06:00.005-05:00

Clearly mistakes were made. Ratings were lost. Feelings were hurt.

NBC screwed up. Big time. By trying to shake up the up the late night show lineup, they inadvertently rattled the cages of throngs of die-hard Conan O'Brien fans. This has been the center of attention throughout popular media for the past week, even on NBC shows, and especially on Conan's show.

I love Conan, and like many other fans, felt slighted, even personally insulted, by NBC's selfishness and insensitivity. How could they do that to Conan?? But upon reflection, was I really mad at NBC or simply frustrated with an unfortunate situation. NBC's not a person. Getting angry at a television network is like a five-year-old ragefully throwing his Wii controller because he can't beat the last level of the new Mario game. Or like me ragefully throwing my Wii controller because I can't beat the last level of the new Mario game. It's pointless.

Sure, we can point fingers at Jeff Zucker, or other NBC senior leaders. But come on. The point of NBC, and pretty much every other for-profit company in the world, is to make money. Do you really the current situation would be handled any differently with different corporate leadership? There are profits to maximize and shareholders to please.

Again, I'm a huge Conan fan and am deeply regretful that he's leaving The Tonight Show, but that's business. Even show business.

P.S. In slightly related NBC news, I thought it was awesome of SNL's Weekend Update to plug donations for Haiti last Saturday. There are numerous relief organizations and ways to donate to help Haiti recover from the recent earthquake. If you haven't already donated, texting HAITI to 90999 is quick and easy way to give $10 to a tremendous cause.

Volunteer Ideas, Vol 2

2009-12-01T08:32:00.005-05:00

No. 2:
HEET:
Home Energy Efficiency Team

Want to show off your handy man/woman skills or learn some new ones? "HEET organizes free weatherization parties to teach volunteers hands-on how to lower their energy bills and carbon emissions. We consult with energy experts to pass on accurate information. We build community, create social marketing for energy efficiency and help facilitate exchanges of ideas."

The nuts and bolts: You get to help others AND help yourself. I was the caulking queen (immature jokes aside) at Cambridgeport School. I went home and fixed my own windows, felt warmer and saved myself some green while being green. What's not to love about that?

Location: A home, school, community meeting place, etc somewhere in the Boston area.
Commitment: Usually a half day; sign up as they come up.
Training: None necessary. Bring your skills and/or can do attitude.
Duties: Varies from painting to caulking to replacing windows to whatever you're willing to try!
Contact: heet.cambridge@gmail.com or visit heetma.com

Volunteer Ideas, Vol 1

2009-11-24T09:25:00.006-05:00

Whatever your interest or skill set, there is some creative way for you to give back to others and the community. Most of us have less money to toss around and give away than we did a couple years ago so we've been neglecting the people who need our support.

The answer: Time & Talent

My answer: Throwing out an idea or two or three every week on how to give back with a tiny bit of time/talent commitment. Here we go!

No. 1: Horizon's for Homeless Children

Some of you think, "why should I help someone out who got his/herself into this situation in the first place!?" Well this group of little ones is undeniably deserving of every bit of assistance and love we can spare. They were born into situations they will never understand. What can you do? Help them develop, learn to share, laugh, and make loads of positive memories.

Horizon's for Homeless Children sets up play areas at homeless shelters throughout Massachusetts and then supplies responsible, fun loving volunteers as "Playspace Activity Leaders" to "foster healthy development through interactions and play." And you're not just helping when you're on site! While you're playing with the kids, mom/dad/guardian is able to attend career counseling classes so he/she can find a job and get a real home.

Locations: all over MA
Commitment: 2 hr shift every week for 6 months
Training: 3 hour training
Duties: think Mary Poppins of Joey Gladstone - be the fun 'adult'
Contact: Horizons for Homeless Children (617) 445-1480 or (800) 560-7702

How do I know it's good? I volunteered as a PAL during college. Questions? Just ask!

Eat Better this Season!!!

2009-11-16T12:46:00.003-05:00

"Imagine for a moment if we once again knew, strictly as a matter of course, these few unremarkable things: What it is we're eating. Where it came from. How it found its way to our table. And what, in a true accounting, it really cost," - Michael Pollan, The Omnivore's Dilemma

Let's follow in the footsteps of our forefathers this season (minus the murderous killing spree) and get our food local. Come down to Suffolk Law School near the Boylston T stop this Tuesday to learn about local and sustainable eating in the Boston area.

We'll have FREE local snacks and a raffle for Apfel Eis Wine from Still River Winery in Central Mass.

Our distinguished speakers:

Alex Loud, Slow Food Boston
Matthew Kochka, ReVision Urban Farm
Jessica Banhazl, Green City Growers
Jamey Lionette, Lionette's Market

DETAILS:

RSVP To: boston (at) OYFP (dot) org by 4 p.m. Tuesday and get a free raffle ticket!!!
Date: Tuesday, November 17th
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Suffolk Law School Faculty Dining Room, 4th FL Suite 495 120 Tremont Street Boston, MA, 02108-4977 617.573.8000
Who: OYFP Boston, Suffolk University's Sustainability Committee
Cost: Free

Health Care- A Global Perspective

2009-10-02T11:00:00.002-04:00

This topic we haven't discussed on this blog yet, partly because I feel it is so polarized in America. But I keep hearing stories from various news outlets regarding the 'state' of the US healthcare, so I felt it was time for me to do my own research and take a comparable look at other industrial nations to see if we even need health care reform.

Our Ranking:

In 2000 the World Health Organization ranked the world's health systems. It ranked France as

number 1. At that time the US ranked 37, behind Costa Rica, & Dominican Republic and ahead of Solvenia and Cuba.

Preventable or Amenable Mortality:

Researchers from London in 2008 studied the amenable mortality, or deaths that could have prevented with good health care. Of the 19 Industrial nations they researched, France came in first, the United States came in second.

Cost:

The Commonwealth Fund did a study in 2008 and tracked chronically ill patients from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States. In this study, the US has the highest percentage (54%) of chronically ill patients who did not seek the recommended care because of the high costs of medical bills. The lowest percentage went to the Netherlands (7%).

USA Today even did an article showing how countries provide and pay for the cost of health care with in their country. Interesting to note in this article, France offers health care coverage to all of it's residents including their illegal residents.

I am a fan of science, and all the research that has been done on the US health care system seems to prove that the US lacks in the health care services it offers to its residents. I guess I am missing a concept here and why this is such a big argument in the US. Why do we not want to improve the health care systems we offer to our residents? Can someone explain to me why this isn't an important matter?

Related Posts: Stay Healthy for the Holidays

Picture Courtesy of: h ttp://blog.damballa.com/

A Somewhat Passive Way to Get Smart and Be Inspired

2009-10-01T12:50:00.005-04:00

Movies!

Head to Cambridge this weekend (it starts today) to check out the UN's Global Voices Film Festival. You can choose a film or two from the schedule or hit up the opening party tonight. I went a few years ago in NYC and left inspired to make changes and to help out my community. And what better way to learn than in front of an extra large boob tube??

While you're at it, send over some reviews and comments... I'll be out of town and have to miss out.

Fall Activity Line-Up

2009-09-22T11:36:00.003-04:00

I'm a fan of fall for many reasons. For instance, my birthday is in fall. Also, new episodes of my favorite TV shows begin in fall. Maybe my favorite part of fall, however, is the perfect New England weather. Every other season, there's an excuse to stay inside: winter can be too cold, spring too soggy, and summer causes excessive back sweat. But with fall, I try to be outside as much as I can.

If you're like me, and want some ideas for outdoor fall weekend activities, read on:

1) Pick some produce. With so many apple orchards and pumpkin patches nearby, the options are endless. Nashoba Valley Winery in Bolton, MA is a great choice. Not only can you go apple-picking, but they have an operational winery with full tours and tastings. Also, On Your Feet Project is providing transportation to their annual Bluegrass & Brews Festival on Sunday, October 25. Have fun and support a great cause at the same time!

2) Check out an outdoor museum. The DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park in Lincoln, MA has some cool exhibits. Also, Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, MA is a great outdoor option, and, as luck would have it, free this weekend (along with dozens of other local museums) thanks to Smithsonian's National Museum Day.

3) Get lost. In a maze. Made of corn. Sounds like a winning combo to me. I've gone to Davis' Mega Maze in Sterling, MA for the last two years, and only had to cheat once. If you're looking for something a little closer to Boston, I've heard Connors Corn Maize in Danvers, MA is where it's at. This year's theme is Family Guy, i.e., they carved Brian and Stewie into a 7-acre corn field.

So much to do, and so little time. Before you know it, we'll have turned the clocks back, dressed up in silly costumes, eaten a coma-inducing turkey dinner, and we'll look outside and there will be a mysterious white covering on the ground. So get busy and enjoy the foliage!

Volunteer Event! Kicking It With The Kids

2009-09-15T20:52:00.005-04:00

It's time to get out there with the kids at the West End House!

On Wednesday, September 23 from 5-7pm, OYFP will be at the West End House in Allston, playing games in their sweet gym (see left) or unleashing our creative spirits in the art studio with the grade schoolers at WEH.

Volunteers can spend their time in the gym, in the studio, or mix it up and spend an hour in each.

And for those of you who can't get swing by at 5, feel free to come by at 6 for the last hour -- it'll be a great time! To make sure volunteers can really interact with the children, we're capping the number of volunteers at 15. Please email David at david.dsilva@oyfp.org to claim your spot.

Bring your gym shoes and your smocks and we'll see you there!

Picture courtesy of the West End House

Got Game?

2009-09-11T10:43:00.003-04:00

I loved playing sports growing up and my sport of choice was soccer. I loved the half-time oranges from the soccer-moms (it's true they do exist), the beating up of boys (I was on a co-ed league) and of course playing with my friends. Being apart of a soccer team was much more than simply learning how to kick a ball; you learn team work, good sportsmanship and valuable social skills that stay with you as you grow up.

If you grew up playing sports, think about all the

coaches, trainers, and specialized help you received to learn the sport of your choice. Isn't it time you returned the favor by becoming a coach as well?

One such opportunity would be the volunteer Coaching Positions for the East Boston Recreational Soccer League. Here you will serve as an assistant coach for this introductory youth soccer program and be able to help teach these kids all the special skills you have obtained from previous coaches.

It's not even a HUGE time commitment either. They practice two times a week from 6-7:30pm and games are Saturday morning from 10-noon. The season starts on September 22 and ends on October 31. The location for most of these practices and games is East Boston Memorial Park (close proximity to Airport T stop-Blue Line).

Please do contact Jennifer Molina at 617-568-4701 or molinaj@ebnhc.org for more details.

Related Posts: "Champions" of a cause, An Olympic Debate

Picture Courtesy of: http://www.illinois-valley-news.com/archive/2008/04/30/index.html

5th Annual Taste of Fort Point Channel - Free Food & Music

2009-09-03T09:49:00.003-04:00

VOLUNTEERS are needed for the 5th Annual Taste of Fort Point Channel hosted by the Friends of Fort Point Channel on Thursday, September 17th from 12noon-1:30pm at the Children's Museum Wharf Park next to the Boston Children's Museum.

The 5th Annual Taste of Fort Point Channel is a dining event featuring 15 local Fort Point restaurants that will serve up samples of their signature dishes for the public during lunchtime! This event is FREE and will feature live music and a variety of cuisine!

The Friends of Fort Point Channel are expecting about 1500 people at the event!

Details:
Date: Thursday, September 17th
Time: 12noon-1:30pm
Location: Children's Museum Wharf Park next to the Boston Children's Museum, 300 Congress Street, Boston, Ma 02210
List of restaurants

They are looking for volunteers from 11:30 – 2:00 to help welcome people as they arrive and give them a map of the area. If you or your friends are interested, please contact events@friendsoffortpointchannel.org.

Friends of Fort Point Channel is a nonprofit organization committed to making the Fort Point Channel an exciting and welcoming destination for all of Boston’s residents, workforce and visitors.

Volunteer Opportunity!

2009-08-28T09:40:00.005-04:00

Hospitality Homes, a local Boston nonprofit that provides cost-free, temporary housing for the families and friends of patients traveling to Boston for medical care, is holding its major annual fundraiser and needs volunteers!

Hospitality Homes seeks volunteers for its 7th Annual Charity Golf Classic on Friday, September 11, at Red Tail Golf Club in Devens, MA. Registration begins shortly after 7 a.m. and the event runs until mid-afternoon, concluding with a lunch and live auction with sportscaster Bob Lobel as guest auctioneer. Volunteers are welcome to commit to either full or half days and will perform a number of tasks, including set-up, registration, contest promotion, auction logistics, and wrap-up. This is a great opportunity for a fun, team-building experience. The Charity Golf Classic is the major annual fundraising event for Hospitality Homes, which provides no-cost, temporary housing in volunteer host homes for families and friends of patients seeking care at Boston-area medical centers. To register as a volunteer, please contact Jeff Stokes at jstokes@hosp.org or 617.482.4338.

To learn more about Hospitality Homes, visit www.hosp.org.

When Moving....

2009-08-21T09:24:00.005-04:00

I've written about it before, but I have to say when people move, they tend to forget that it creates a lot of garbage. There are steps you can take to reduce your garbage such as going through your stuff and deciding what is donatable.

Where to donate the stuff?

Boomerangs in Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury. Benefits HIV/AIDS education and prevention programs.
Household Goods Recycling in Acton
Goodwill stores various locations throughout Boston

Sometimes you just have to take the time to advertise what you have on Craigslist or freecylcle and someone will come and pick it up from your house!

Not that I mind all the free furniture I receive when I walk my dog, but please take the time to save the items that can be reused!

Picture Courtesy of: http://stuytownluxliving.com/2009/07/ex-residents-to-stuy-town-mgmt-f-you.html

In Support of Public Pools

2009-08-13T16:07:00.003-04:00

I love swimming. Not in the Michael Phelps sense of the word of course. I don't actually do any strokes, and rarely find exercise in any context enjoyable. By "swimming" I mean hanging out in a body of water. While lakes and oceans offer several outstanding benefits, it's generally more convenient to go to a friend's pool. Plus, you're much less likely to have an unwanted encounter with any sort of marine life (you can read more about my general distaste for fish here).

But what if you find yourself without access to a friend's pool, either because you don't have any friends with pools or you lack friends in general? There is another option.

A year and a half ago, my girlfriend and I moved to a new apartment with an idyllic community pool. With the promise of heated, pristine water within walking distance of our home, I could not wait for summer to begin. The day finally came when the pool opened up on a blazingly hot Saturday. My excitement peaked when we arrived, and soon after plummeted. There were so many people, you could barely move around in the water without knocking into screaming kids playing Marco Polo. One overbearing mother sprayed her rotund, sun-burned child with sunscreen while he was in the pool, leaving a layer of film on the surface of the water. It was too much for me to handle, and after that disappointing experience I did not return to the pool for the rest of the summer.

I'm not sure how I managed to survive the blistering dog days last year without walking a few hundred yards to the nearby oasis. But this summer, I decided to give it another try. To my surprise, it was much more pleasant. Less crowded. Less gross. More refreshing. I'm now a regular on the weekends, and am glad I was able to get over my initial distaste for the public pool after one bad experience. And I'm sure to be there this weekend with the sun and 87-degree weather.

Calling All Sewers, Knitters, & Fabric Lovers

2009-08-11T10:44:00.007-04:00

I have an addiction. The type you read about. It's bad, real bad.

I just can't say no to fabric.

All you sewers, quilters, or knitters out there understand. I know you understand, because I read about your addictions on all my craft and sewing blogs.

I have two rubbermaid containers full of fabric. And then some more on top of it. And on top of that. With my boyfriend moving into my small apartment, I can't keep it all. What's a girl to do with all the fabric?

My solution? Donating to Iraqi Bundles of Love. A soldier in Iraq is soliciting fabric and sewing supply donations to give out to women's sewing collaboratives. It all started when he looked at all the items soldiers returning home were leaving behind... and grew from there.

It's simple to participate: Buy a flat rate box from the Post Office for $11.95. Follow his directions on the blog to make a bundle (small or large) filled with whatever sewing/knitting supplies you would like. Contact him for his APO address. Mail for the same price it would cost to send a package to NYC.

And wallah! You've helped women in Iraq make a living, cleaned out some of your fabric stash, and made room for your boyfriend to move in (ok maybe that last one is just me).

Related Posts: Helping a little old lady (quilt); Quilting for a Cause; Flooded Midwesterners still need your help; Partying for Good

Photo courtesy of my stash. But I actually made something out of this fabric - a skirt!

Walk Now for Autism-October 18th

2009-08-07T09:24:00.004-04:00

Autism, do you know it affects nearly one in every 150 children in the United States? Therefore it is estimated that 1.5 million Americans may be affected with autism, can you believe that staggering number? Research has yet to provide a cure, but you can help the efforts to find a cure by volunteering to help out the Greater Boston Walk Now for Autism.

This year it will be held on October 18th at Suffolk Downs Racetrack in East Boston. Volunteers are needed for set up, clean up, handing out water, greeting participants, cheering the walkers, assisting with children's activities and more!

Details:

Greater Boston Walk Now for Autism
Sunday, October 18th, 2009
Suffolk Downs Race Track
East Boston, MA

Registration for volunteers: click here.

Registration: 9:00 am Walk Starts: 10:30 am

Join Autism Speaks as we tackle autism! Experience the power of thousands united by a single cause by joining Walk Now for Autism. Start a corporate, school or family team today! Walk Now for Autism offers everyone a fun-filled experience with entertainment, refreshments, an autism community resource fair, and much, much more.

Tips to Travel Green

2009-07-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

Whether it be a staycation or an actual trip it's hard to be Green while traveling. For example I was fortunate enough to visit the Carribean a few weeks ago which has spectacular views and scenery.

That being said, it was also difficult to find any recycling bins for the basics (bottled water, paper, cans, etc.) and when I did find recyle bins they were ONLY for cans. I even took all the paper home from our trip (maps, info guides, etc.) home with me in my luggage to recycle it all when I came back to Beantown.

My sister informs me that I no longer have to pack my recyclables, but I can also be green when I travel as well. Here are some helpful sites to help you plan your trip!

Eco-Friendly Vacations for you and your family
Green Hotels
Cruises
Ski-Resorts

You can keep your hobbies, such as traveling, and still maintain your sustainable life-style! Have you heard of any other Eco-Friendly Traveling tips?

Picture of my trip to St. Thomas

Sing Sing Sing Sing

2009-07-15T02:22:00.006-04:00

You are about to have a fantastically hysterical time... That is, of course, if you come out this Thursday night to our Karaoke party at LimeLight. Arrive between 8-9 pm and your full cover charge will go towards supporting Friday Night Supper Program (FNSP). Bar drinks will be available in case you are in need of liquid courage.

Singin' for Friday (Night Supper Program)
Date: Thursday, July 16th
Time: 8pm
Location: Limelight Stage & Studio
204 Tremont St
Boston, MA 02116
(across from the Boylston T-stop)
Partner: Friday Night Supper Program
Cost: $10

Anyone you know have a birthday, wedding, anything coming up? Want to just spoil yourself? Why not win a gift!

Raffle will include prizes like:

Red Sox Tickets - August Game
Limelight Gift Certificate
Boston Center for Adult Education Gift Certificate

Wine & cheese
Frequent Flyer Miles
Framed Photographs

ImprovAsylum Tickets

Go Blue!

2009-07-10T09:00:00.003-04:00

When I attend the OYFP Speaker Series event two days ago, I was really struck by a point made during the lecture. Boston spent 15 Billion on the Big Dig project, making sure people who drive have a better trip into the city, but does little if anything for those who rely on public transportation.

Just imagine, Boston, what kind of public transportation we could have currently if even half of that amount of money was used to create a better public transportation for the City of Boston. We would have new train cars that won't break down or become disabled and delay your trip home every day. When you are waiting for the bus you would actually know how much longer it will be until the next bus arrives because of the electronic sign above you. The Green line would go underground and you would no longer have to stop at every intersection because of street traffic and could actually get you to work on time.

Sigh, okay back to reality. Instead, those of us who rely on public transportation to get to and from work, or even navigate Boston are facing a possible 20% increase in prices to ride the T. If the city really is trying to be more green or more blue as John, our speaker, likes to say (the earth is 70% made of water), than shouldn't our government make public transportation a priority?

If public transportation was more reliable, and made Boston more accessible, than we could take more cars off the road and reduce the amount of Carbon Dioxide we release into the atmosphere, thus less pollution for the ocean! Win-win!

Do you think the state should spend money upgrading its public transportation system?

Picture Courtesy of: http://herokids.wordpress.com/

In Search of Dignity

2009-07-08T09:34:00.006-04:00

This is just too thoughtful and thought provoking not to re-publish. And there is certainly an argument to be made for reviving dignity (or establishing a new sense of social dignity) through civic engagement, public service, time spent at the benefit of others. Thoughts?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Op-Ed Columnist

In Search of Dignity
By DAVID BROOKS
Published: July 6, 2009

When George Washington was a young man, he copied out a list of 110 “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation.” Some of the rules in his list dealt with the niceties of going to a dinner party or meeting somebody on the street. “Lean not upon anyone,” was one of the rules. “Read no letter, books or papers in company,” was another. “If any one come to speak to you while you are sitting, stand up,” was a third.

But, as the biographer Richard Brookhiser has noted, these rules, which Washington derived from a 16th-century guidebook, were not just etiquette tips. They were designed to improve inner morals by shaping the outward man. Washington took them very seriously. He worked hard to follow them. Throughout his life, he remained acutely conscious of his own rectitude.

In so doing, he turned himself into a new kind of hero. He wasn’t primarily a military hero or a political hero. As the historian Gordon Wood has written, “Washington became a great man and was acclaimed as a classical hero because of the way he conducted himself during times of temptation. It was his moral character that set him off from other men.

”Washington absorbed, and later came to personify what you might call the dignity code. The code was based on the same premise as the nation’s Constitution — that human beings are flawed creatures who live in constant peril of falling into disasters caused by their own passions. Artificial systems have to be created to balance and restrain their desires.

The dignity code commanded its followers to be disinterested — to endeavor to put national interests above personal interests. It commanded its followers to be reticent — to never degrade intimate emotions by parading them in public. It also commanded its followers to be dispassionate — to distrust rashness, zealotry, fury and political enthusiasm.

Remnants of the dignity code lasted for decades. For most of American history, politicians did not publicly campaign for president. It was thought that the act of publicly promoting oneself was ruinously corrupting. For most of American history, memoirists passed over the intimacies of private life. Even in the 19th century, people were appalled that journalists might pollute a wedding by covering it in the press.

Today, Americans still lavishly admire people who are naturally dignified, whether they are in sports (Joe DiMaggio and Tom Landry), entertainment (Lauren Bacall and Tom Hanks) or politics (Ronald Reagan and Martin Luther King Jr.).

But the dignity code itself has been completely obliterated. The rules that guided Washington and generations of people after him are simply gone.

We can all list the causes of its demise. First, there is capitalism. We are all encouraged to become managers of our own brand, to do self-promoting end zone dances to broadcast our own talents. Second, there is the cult of naturalism. We are all encouraged to discard artifice and repression and to instead liberate our own feelings. Third, there is charismatic evangelism with its penchant for public confession. Fourth, there is radical egalitarianism and its hostility to aristocratic manners.

The old dignity code has not survived modern life. The costs of its demise are there for all to see. Every week there are new scandals featuring people who simply do not know how to act. For example, during the first few weeks of summer, three stories have dominated public conversation, and each one exemplifies another branch of indignity.

First, there was Mark Sanford’s press conference. Here was a guy utterly lacking in any sense of reticence, who was given to rambling self-exposure even in his moment of disgrace. Then there was the death of Michael Jackson and the discussion of his life. Here was a guy who was apparently untouched by any pressure to live according to the rules and restraints of adulthood. Then there was Sarah Palin’s press conference. Here was a woman who aspires to a high public role but is unfamiliar with the traits of equipoise and constancy, which are the sources of authority and trust.

In each of these events, one sees people who simply have no social norms to guide them as they try to navigate the currents of their own passions.

Americans still admire dignity. But the word has become unmoored from any larger set of rules or ethical system.

But it’s not right to end on a note of cultural pessimism because there is the fact of President Obama. Whatever policy differences people may have with him, we can all agree that he exemplifies reticence, dispassion and the other traits associated with dignity. The cultural effects of his presidency are not yet clear, but they may surpass his policy impact. He may revitalize the concept of dignity for a new generation and embody a new set of rules for self-mastery.

A version of this article appeared in print on July 7, 2009, on page A23 of the New York edition.

My guilty concience: Vegetables

2009-07-07T10:27:00.010-04:00

I have guilt.

Oh the guilt!!!

It's not about leaving OYFP (yes, after three years I'm resigning, and like Sarah Palin, I'm not sure what my future volunteering plans are).

It's about all the vegetables in my fridge.

Oh the vegetables!

Daikon turnips, kale, radishes, cabbage (two kinds), three bunches of cilantro, two bunches of parsley, ten cucumbers, garlic scrape, regular garlic, onions, tomatoes, and more. It's CSA time, and I have plenty of veggies again. The harvest has been bountiful despite the overly rainy and cloudy season, and my fridge is bursting at its seams. How quickly I forgot the pressure of the veggies in the fridge --- "eat me! cook me! I'm organic and natural and going to go bad unless you do something!"

I have extra pressure this year because my brother -- my own flesh and blood -- has grown these vegetables.

Don't get me wrong - these veggies are out of this world delicious. I want to eat them. But there are some unusual veggies in the mix, and there's only so many stirfry dishes a girl can stand. Or cabbage soup (yuck). I've been on the search for a Few Good Recipes, and I think I've found them.

My easy seasonal recommendations, which even those of you who don't belong to CSAs can use:

Parsley: Pepita Parsley Pesto
Cabbage: Curried Coleslaw (sub out half the mayo for greek yogurt)
Cabbage: Okonomiyaki (Japanese Pancake)
Kale: Roasted Kale Chips
Kale: Summer Pasta n' Kale a la JLK
Cilantro: Chickpea Cilantro Dip (add red onion or substitute navy beans for chickpeas)
Zucchini: Throw 'em on the grill, or in the oven with the kale
Daikon radishes: Just eat them raw
You can't go wrong with a Summer Veggie Curry
Or use a farm-fresh egg and some of your summer greens on this fun pizza

Let me know what you think! My guests have been more than happy with the results...

Related Posts: PSA for CSAs; Not Wasting Food; Patio Gardens; Find Local Food Locally
Photos courtesy of Red Fire Farm. You can buy their veggies bi-weekly at the South Station Farmer's Market.

Tick Tock Time Management

2009-06-20T20:46:00.006-04:00

I am continuously running into this issue. To work (or apply for jobs for many of you out there), to volunteer, to have fun, to relax... how to keep this all straight and remain sane?!

The point is, as a mid-twenties-er trying to make a name for myself and figure out where I want to go and be, I find keeping up my momentum is the biggest key to success (yes, I just used the phrase "key to success"...enter vomit).

Sure, on a Tuesday night, I am tempted by the cheese-bucket reality TV my roommates are watching on the boob. Sure, at least 30 percent of the time I give into the temptation to slouch on into my new comfy couches and go numb for a while.

My more important point: Don't deny that YOU DO have the time to fit in SOME form of volunteering on, say, a bi-weekly basis (minimum).

Better yet... Your enthusiasm will motivate me and the others around you to do something interesting. And let's face it, we could all use a little more excitement in our (actual) lives.

The Canary Project

2009-06-17T11:54:00.004-04:00

I work for a very green company in a very green workplace, so it was no surprise to me when the founders of the Canary Project paid us a visit to educate us about their work. The Project "produces visual media, events, and artwork that build public understanding of human-induced climate change and energize commitment to solutions." Edward Morris and his wife and photographer for the project, Susannah Sayler have travelled the world (I won't pretend I'm not a little bit jealous) photographing areas affected by climate change. The Canary Project successfully melds art and activism and is an interesting new way to inform and inspire. Check it out!

Cocktails 101

2009-06-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

Does this scene sound familiar with you?

You are heading out after work with a few friends to a new bar you haven't been to before. The waiter hands you a list of the drinks offered at this bar and you haven't heard of any of them previously. Your friends look at the menu and know exactly what they are going to get in seconds. You, on the other hand don't know what drink you prefer as you look through the short novel of all the drinks they can create for you. You don't want to be lame and ask the waiter/bartender what exactly is in each of the drinks, but you aren't sure which ones you will like. The waiter comes back and takes everyone's orders, and when it comes to you, you try the first one on the list. Several minutes pass, and the waiter comes back with all of your drinks. You take a sip of your drink, and you don't like it, you try your friends drink and love it. If only you knew what drinks were what.

If that scene sounds familiar have we got an event for you! Cocktails 101, where you can learn from the Boston Shaker how to make a Martinez, French 75 among others. Enjoy Cocktail Samples and amazing appetizers from Mantra while your at it!

PLUS ALL PROCEEDS will go to the West End House which offers life-shaping opportunities to more than 1,000 youth representing 40 countries. Learning and doing something good for you community, all in one!

Details:

Where: Mantra, 52 Temple Street

When: June 18th, 6-9pm

Benefitting: West End House

Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Sponsors: Mantra, Boston Shaker, Berkshire Mountain Distillers, Preiss Imports and Vin Divino,.

Related Posts: 80's Game Night, I love Pasta, Spirit of Service

Maybe it’s time to GIVE a bit more Boston…

2009-06-05T10:47:00.002-04:00

Maybe it’s time to GIVE a bit more Boston…

Sometimes you have to hand it to Congress, at least for their creative naming of legislation. Proposed bill names are often a little self serving, i.e. the ABC act (Access to Books for Children); or they may provide a little double meaning, as in one in the news recently, the FACE act (Freedom of Access to Clinics); sometimes they even actually make sense, e.g. BUSES act (Bus Uniform Standards and Enhanced Safety), and sometimes they are just aptly named, e.g. the CAN-SPAM act (Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act); and, of course others make you wonder how much time and effort was spent just naming the thing, and why, e.g.the HOME-RUN act (Helping Owners Make Energy-Efficiency Residential Upgrades Now).

Fun with words aside – in April of this year, Congress passed the GIVE act (Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education). Okay, so this was later renamed in honor of our own Sen. Kennedy, but regardless the bill provides for the reauthorization of the Corporation for National and Community Service, vastly expands the AmericaCorps program, creates a social venture capital fund, and provides funding for programs to support community involvement among college-students, senior citizens, and yep you guessed it…younger, working professionals.

According to 2007 data from the Corporation, Boston residents aged 25-34 are the least likely to volunteer their time (20% participation in volunteer activities). Sound low? This is in a city that ranks 34th out of the 50 largest US cities in terms of volunteerism rates (26.4% in 2007).

Surprising maybe? This means that just 1 of every 5 of your friends in Boston is likely to volunteer their time to a local or national organization provide tutoring, mentoring, fundraising, organizing, or direct services. The median time given among young professionals? -- just 36 hours, or less than 2 days a year, about 12 Red Sox games, or the time spent watching a season of 24.

So what can we do to encourage a Spirit of Service among this age group? Aside from increased federal support for organizations, encouraging access to positive volunteer experiences may increase the likelihood of individuals developing a sustained interest in civic service.

For working professionals with competing interests, this may be easier said than realized. Still, there is no shortage of great organizations and volunteering opportunities in Boston. OYFP, for one, is among many others, such as YAVA. Private and business support for volunteering is organized through organizations such as Boston Cares. Traditional services-organizations are expanding their reach, e.g. United Way’s Young Leaders program. You can encourage your company to adopt a community-oriented component to their mission statement, that explicitly supports employee involvement. In this increasingly connected world your iphone and facebook account can do more than update your friends’ status, by plugging into a lot more.

Talk to friends, commit a couple hours, join a email listing, become involved, GIVE a little bit more, and help Boston become better than 1 in 5.

On Your Feet Project Volunteers serve Friday Night Supper!

2009-05-29T09:47:00.002-04:00

The Friday Night Supper Program is a Boston based "soup kitchen." FNSP has served nutritious home-cooked meals to homeless and hungry people in Boston every Friday night since 1984. Every. Friday. Night.

Tonight! 10-15 OYFP volunteers are donating their time to serve hot meals and distribute clothes to over 150 guests.

If you cant make it tonight you can go next Friday, or the Friday after that or...you get the point.

Volunteering with FNSP provides a meaningful way for individuals and groups to “give back” to the community, and it is a wonderful way to meet and work with people who share your concern for helping others. Volunteering also provides a valuable educational opportunity for individuals and groups who want to learn more about and advocate for the end of hunger and related social issues.

Cheers!

How's the End of Your Sidewalk?

2009-05-29T09:00:00.002-04:00

I am going to pull a Christina here and write about something I have noticed on my walk to work. Recently the end ramps of sidewalks around Teele square in Somerville have been dug up and replaced with these tiles in the picture to the right. I didn't know why the city would do this, so I asked around. Is it to help pedestrians navigate the sidewalk when its icy out? Give us traction when it rains?

It turns out that that this is a detectable warning tactile tile, which helps visually impaired people find the end of the street and wheelchair users have access to get on and off the sidewalk. I am glad that City of Somerville is making efforts to make their sidewalks more friendly for the individuals that are differently abeled than myself. Isn't it amazing how much you take for granted, such as crossing the street safely?

A point to ponder is why haven't I noticed this tile elsewhere before? Possibly I only noticed this NEW change to the neighborhood, mostly because it effected the path I take to work and there could be longstanding ones in the Boston area that I have never noticed. It also makes me wonder what else I take for granted/ never noticed around my community?

What positive changes have you noticed in your neighborhood lately?

Related Posts: Guide Horse?, Please shovel your sidewalks

Ending Childhood Hunger - What you can do

2009-05-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today, more than 12 million children in the United States do not know when their next meal will come. Unfortunately, this number continues to rise as these difficult economic times are leaving more and more people jobless, without homes, and unable to provide food for their families.

What can you, one person, do?

1. Sign-up to host a bake sale: http://www.GreatAmericanBakeSale.org/vgabs, and then actually host it. Easy as pie (literally)! Host it at work, on your sidewalk, at your church, etc. Get creative!

2. Buy the virtual Great American Bake Sale eBook:
http://StolenMomentsCooking.com/virtual-gabs

3. Post a ChipIn widget or banner on your blog:
http://www.GreatAmericanBakeSale.org/bloggers

Together we can work together to end childhood hunger.

Photo courtesy of Whipped Bakeshop in Philadelphia, PA.

Memorial Day - Tribute to the Troops

2009-05-25T12:12:00.003-04:00

No matter your political views, most of us can appreciate the sacrifice individuals make when they volunteer to serve in the US armed forces.

This past March, my boyfriend and I spent two weeks in Honduras to rest, relax, and explore. During our time on Roatan (an island off the coast of Honduras), we met a group of Navy people (sea men?) who had volunteered to help build schools on the island. The Navy also donated $9,000 towards the effort.

Most of the sailors on the ship moored just off the coast of the island chose to rest and relax like Terrence and I did, but it was really touching to see this group of sailors who chose to give up a few days to help build the school, play with the kids, and make a difference in a place where 75% of kids do not attend school.

So on this Memorial Day, I'm saying thanks for the things our armed forces do that are above and beyond protecting us - for reaching out and helping people who really, truly need it. Thank you.

The photo is of laundry drying in a village on Roatan island in Honduras.

Puppies Behind Bars

2009-05-16T11:30:00.003-04:00

I know, I know. It has been awhile since I blogged. Blame work, blame my class, blame my lack of motivation. However. This morning, in the process of working (yes I realize it's Saturday), I came across the organization Puppies Behind Bars, and was so moved, I cried. Yes, tears fell on my work laptop.

Why all the emotion? Because of this video.

I believe that US prisons have long been broken. The primary goal of prisons is to punish people for their illegal acts, which the system does a fairly good job of. The second goal, however, is to rehabilitate them for their re-entry into society. And that is where the prison system is flawed. Counseling sessions and job training classes only go so far - many prisoners can't be reached. Puppies, however --- puppies can get in.

Puppies Behind Bars accomplishes two things: Training service dogs for disabled people, and rehabilitating prisoners. The dogs stay with the prisoners 24 hours a day, and the prisoners are responsible for training them and taking care of them. In return, they get love and loyalty from their dog, and the knowledge that the dog is going to help someone who really needs it - a disabled veteran or other disabled person.

The experience really seems to transform the prisoners, not to mention the person who receives the trained dog. The prisoners reconnect with the part of them that has empathy - a part lost long ago, and which probably led to them committing crime. I believe that participation in the program will lead to lower rates of recidivism, but Puppies Behind Bars does not have statistics available.

There are a lot of non-profits out there, but this one may now be my favorite (aside from OYFP of course). The win-win situation really inspires me, and moves me.

What do you think of the program?

Living Green Festival

2009-05-15T08:00:00.002-04:00

Want to create a more sustainable lifestyle like the town of Vauban, Germany? Okay so maybe talking to your city officials and banning cars might be a bit extreme at this point, but there is always something that you can do to reduce your carbon footprint. I keep hearing new ideas from other people and setting obtainable goals for myself, like reusable containers for my water instead of plastic bottles.

If you are unsure of what things you can do to create a more sustainable lifestyle then come on down to the Living Green Festival. There will be hands-on workshops, pictures with the Green Monster, A Green Vehicle Show and more! I also like that if you ride your bicycle there you will receive a free basic adjustment and tune up. Oh and if you bring a year of energy bills you can receive a free cost-saving breakdown and a chance to win an energy audit! Anyway you look at it there is something for everyone here.

Details:

Date: Saturday May 16th

Time: 10:00AM to 2:00PM

Location: Somerville High School, 81 Highland Ave.

Cost: Free!

Click here for more information.

Picture Courtesy of: http://www.scityvt.co.uk/assets/cycle.jpg

Counting Counts! 2010 Census.

2009-05-11T10:07:00.004-04:00

Census: Who, What, Where, When, and Why?

Being counted in the Census counts because its provides the government the ability to know where it should spend our money. For example, if a city or town has more children living in it than it had ten years ago, it might be a good place to build another school or playground. The census helps determine the distribution of roughly $300 billion a year in federal funds to state and local governments – or $3 trillion over a ten-year period.

What: It’s a count.
- The census is a count of everyone residing in the United States: in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Island Areas.

Who: Everyone & everywhere in the U.S.
- All residents of the United States must be counted. This includes people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and non-citizens.

When: Every 10 years.
- Census questionnaires will be mailed or delivered to every household in the United States in March 2010. The first Census was conducted in 1790.

Why: The numbers affect funding in y(our) community.
- The population totals determine each state’s Congressional representation. The numbers also affect funding in your community and help inform decision makers about how your community is changing.

How:
- The Census Bureau will mail or deliver questionnaires to your house in March 2010. The Bureau will mail a second form to households that do not respond to the initial questionnaire. Households that still do not respond will be called or visited by a Census worker. (Census workers can be identified by a census badge and bag.)

March 2010 be counted.

Your Name on Toast

2009-05-08T12:22:00.007-04:00

Yep not kidding. You can have your name or web address written on toast for any amount of donation (min $100.00) to Oxfam-Ireland. If you click on any of the pieces of toast then it links you to the website of the doner.

The next logical question is why? Well the obvious answer to that is who doesn't love toast and who wouldn't want to see their name on toast?

The website claims it's a silly idea, but silly ideas get people talking and creates awareness of the cause you are trying to promote. SO TRUE! This is why I

loved watching Chicago station Channel 9 news in the morning growing up because they would make people do silly things, like be a human bowling ball and they would give you a bit of air time to promote your cause. If hurling myself down a bowling lane to knock down some pins helps end world poverty than I am in!

I would also like to point out that they have raised over $11,000.00 to help Oxfam-Ireland thus far! Think of what a unique mother's day gift it could be to, her name on toast.

Click here to buy your own toast.

Click here to see all the pieces of toast that have been written on.

Related Posts: Holiday Shopping & BYOBag , DWBDG: a case study

Picture Courtesy of: http://yournameontoast.com/

P.S. Thanks for the idea Casey

PSA for CSA

2009-05-04T20:04:00.004-04:00

Ah yes, that beautiful springtime Boston weather--when it's 90 degrees and sunny one day, yet 50 degrees and rainy the next. But it is at least spring, when April showers bring May farmers' markets (or I think that's the saying).

That's right, farmers' markets are right around the corner! And as we keep hearing about the salmonella scares in our food supply--sometimes ones that exist for years before the public finally learns about them, it's become increasingly apparent that knowing exactly where our food comes from is imperative to our well being. Worse, recent reports suggest that the H1N1 ("swine") flu may have derived from U.S. factory pig farms in the late 1990s; which if you have read Michael Pollan's, Omnivore's Dilemma, you know those are not fun places to be (see Chapter 11: The Animals).

But thankfully, and increasingly, farmers' markets (as great as they are) are not the only means to finding local, fresh, and clean produce. Behold the concept of CSA (Community-supported Agriculture). Before the season begins (read: now), consumers sign up to receive a "share" of the produce that is grown. Often times this will mean a box of produce that you can pick up each week and bring home. As this season progresses, different items will comprise your share. For example, in my CSA, we're expecting lettuce and tomatoes in June among other things, and onions and potatoes in October.

I don't want to give a full defense for CSA here--it would take too long and become boring, but I do want to point out a couple highlights: 1) You know where your food is coming from; 2) Your food will be fresh and clean (albeit not of dirt); 3) You will support your local economy; 4) Quite possibly meet a few farmers; 5) Stop spending so much time (and money) in supermarkets. Of course, there's one small downside, but it seems minor to all the benefits in comparison.

So if you want to sign up, I suggest you move quickly as the growing season approaches. Stillman's Farm, Allendale Farm, and Silverbrook Farms are all options I've heard of several times--but just do a quick search and you'll be able to find many more.

And if you aren't quite sold on this whole local, sustainable thing, but want to learn more, BU is hosting quite a number of events and talks this Friday and Saturday. If you can't make that, I suggest at least picking up a copy of King Corn--it's well worth the hour and a half.

And lastly if all of this has been old news, let us know your favorite farmers' markets in the Boston area, and/or the CSA you belong to. And maybe more importantly, your strategy for dealing with that last bit of kale :)