As we end the year and begin the holiday season, it only seems fitting that we look at what all we have to be thankful about, and all of our blessings in life. Even when there are horrible things in our midst, there are always blessings and goodness for which to be thankful.
This is the time of year that I am especially mindful of all my blessings and think of those in need. I like to pick a few worthy organizations and do some good by helping them out. So, I thought I would provide the name and contact info for some organizations who could use your help and support as we end 2018 and embark upon a new year! See what you think about these and pick one or two that you might be willing to help out in the name of making a difference for others.
The Camp Fire
The deadliest and most destructive wildfire ever, in California history, was in November 2018. It caused at least 86 fatalities, covered over 153,000 acres, destroyed 18,804 structures. It literally burned down the entire town of Paradise, CA., and the community of Concow. Those communities and the people involved, need our help. These two links provide ways/places to give them assistance:
Spark of Love Toy Drive
ABC7 and Southern California Firefighters are collaborating again for the 26th Anniversary of the Spark of Love Toy Drive. They collect new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for under served children and teens in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange, and Riverside Counties. There are many drop off spots – at your local fire station, or you can click make a donation.
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Children’s Holiday Magic Project
Children’s Holiday Magic Project is a group of generous and talented professional voice actors, and singers. This group is headed up by professional voice actor, Jeff Gelder. They brighten the holidays for children and their siblings who are spending the holidays at Children’s Hospitals. This year, their goal is to deliver 10,000 copies of the Children’s Holiday Magic CD to the children in these hospitals. You can play a big role by donating toward the effort. This is their 16th year helping these children smile. Here are a couple of useful links:
Holiday Magic – Children’s Holiday Magic Project
Cans4Cans
Benztown is a leading international radio imaging, production library, programming, jingles, and voice over services company. You have probably heard of them and may even be on their roster of talent. This is their fifth annual “Cans4Cans” Holiday Benefit to help increase donations to the LA Food Bank. Now through December 20th, 2018, when you post a photo wearing your Cans (aka headphones) to Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook with the hashtag #Cans4Cans, Benztown will donate a can of food to the Los Angles Food Bank. Last year they had over 900 people post pictures. Let’s post even more this year! Here is the link:
So, you see, as you count your blessings, there are easy ways for you to make a difference this holiday season. While some require a monetary donation, there is one that only takes the time and ingenuity to take a photo and post it on your social media. Let’s see those posts!
I hope you will choose at least two of these and do what you can to make spirits bright. ‘Tis the season! Thank you!