We all know that we’re in a recession…Blah blah blah. So, there are folks out there who can’t do things because they simply can’t afford it. However, some of you are faking the funk as an escape route. Recently, there was an article in The New York Times talking about how people are using the recession as a way to get out of doing things with (or for) people. Interesting…

My opinion? I don’t think you should fake being broke just because you don’t want to buy a baby shower gift or propose to your girlfriend. While it’s convenient because the recession-talk is everywhere, it’s also a tad shady. If you don’t want to do those things, just don’t do it! 

Okay, let me get down off my soapbox…It’s lonely up here!

-kb

Okay, folks. I have a confession to make. In the past, I haven’t been good at fundraising for the causes closest to my heart. Now, I’ll volunteer all of my time and give my own money in a heartbeat, but I never really been comfortable asking others for their time or money. Why? Well, because that requires a bit of story-telling. You know, sharing with others my connection to the cause. And, until recently, I’d tell a soft story in a small voice. I’d simply say something like “Oh, my mom has/had MS.” Well, who does that really motivate? Who does that really inspire?

This morning, my mind drifted back to a conversation that I had with my uncle. A couple of summers ago, we were walking along the Chicago River, and he said that he couldn’t understand why his sister (my mother) had to live with this disease. He asked the question that we had all asked ourselves at one point in time, “Why her?” As the warm wind blew across our faces, I turned to him and said, “Through it all, she’s never stopped being positive, loving, or caring. God is using her story to inspire people.”

When my mother passed away at the age of 49, I asked myself a very serious question, “If I had only 25 more years left on this Earth, what is the story that I want others to tell about me?” Better yet, “What is the story that I want to start telling?” Once I knew the answer, I was able to find my voice. The unshakable, unwavering voice of a person who knows what she wants to say and won’t be silenced.

This year, I’m REALLY pushing myself to step it up as it relates to two issues: multiple sclerosis and young caregivers. I’m going to tell my story in hopes that it will motivate others to find their passion, follow their dreams, and support their causes. And, I refuse to let it stop there…

I know that we lead some very busy lives, but I’m challenging all of you to find a cause that you believe in and start thinking about how your story can make a difference. After all, you never know who’s listening or being inspired at that moment…

-kb

Today, I’m going to support a small business. If corporations are struggling, then you already know how it’s going down for local businesses. Make sense?

-kb

The love-fest that is February continues to bring us many great charitable events. This Thursday, the Chicago’s Red Cross Auxiliary Board with host the 8th edition of its “Flirting with Disaster” party. The event will be held on North Halsted Street, at Hydrate (3458 N. halsted). I hear that the Kit Kat divas will be making an appearance! Yes…!

Shlomi, from the NBC 5 Street Team, has more information in his blog entry.

-kb

Send a “Thank You” note to my friend, Shantel, who sent a gown to DC (via 2-day Priority Mail) so that I would have something to wear to one of the Inaugural Balls

Note: This is big b/c I prefer “Thank You” calls, emails, or texts…Stationery is not my thing. At least, not yet. Lol

Hey, all…I’ve decided to do one small act of kindness every day this month. I figure that there are only 28 days, so this is a completely feasible task! You can read about my decision in my Examiner post.

I also plan to post 28 acts of kindness that I plan to execute daily. In my Examiner article, I’m challenging everyone to join me. You can do it…I believe in you

-kb

After a long search in the nonprofit sector, I’ve decided that my professional interests (such as, the use of new media in communications) may be better utilized in the area of public affairs/relations. However, I still have an urge to channel my business background in an avenue which significantly contributes to a better society. 

But, what if my new employer doesn’t put a great emphasis on charitable giving or volunteerism? Well, luckily for me, there’s the Taproot Foundation. 

Read the rest of my Examiner post here.

-kb

Ebay is hosting several auctions on some pretty sweet packages for charity, and I know that some of you must really love me out there. So, I’m willing to let you prove how much you care by giving you the chance to bid on this 90210 package on my behalf. I kid, I kid…But, the package details are below, if you’re interested!

The Ultimate 90210 Experience (Open until 1/22) : This package includes a trip to the set of the new 90210, a $500 shopping spree at Kitson, dinner, facials, a Cole Haan bag, AND Seasons 1-6 of the original BH 90210. Benefits: Habitat for Humanity

Don’t laugh at my desire for this package….You all know that I love the old 90210, and I simply adore Tristan (Dixon on the new 90210). You can check out other cool celebrity auctions by clicking here, including a $3,000 Hello Kitty watch donated by the newly-preggers Kimora Lee Simmons (congrats)!

-kb

Jennifer from Cheeky Chicago shares her thoughts on giving back on the Cheeky Chicago website…Link below!!!

Cheeky Does Charity

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I WISH my suitcase was stuffed like this!!!

When I flew to DC on Saturday, I (of course) packed for two weeks. I included suits, dresses, a gown, PJs, pumps, an winter dress coat, and then the regular clothes. As I approached baggage check, I dreaded that I would be over 50 lbs (checked bag fee + an overweight fee = NOOOO!). And, obviously, my giant suitcase was 56.5 lbs. Even after, I switched some shirts and a pair of gymshoes to my carry-on AND put on an extra sweater, I was still at 54.5 lbs. Grrr…At this point, I seriously was prepared to just give away some sweaters or a pair of jeans. I asked the AA representative if there were donation boxes in the airport, and she told me “No.”

Wait, what?

Am I the only person who think that is a good idea? I always overpack for trips and am always wishing that I didn’t bring that extra sweater, Illinois t-shirt, or whatever. And, I’m sure I’m not the only person who has been up against the gun (or weight scale) when trying to make it through security and to the gate in 45 mins!

I’m sure there are security reasons or logistical nightmares associated with having donation boxes in airports, but I think it should be worth a try! Does anyone agree??

-kb

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Oh, to end my story, the representative suggested that I take my extra coat out of my suitcase, and if I got it to 51 lbs, she’d let me slide. I did it, and voila…It worked!!! 50.5 lbs! But, my body definitely hurt after carrying a 25 lb carry-on, my big black purse (housing my laptop, gymshoes, water, etc…), my black winter coat, and my white winter coat.