Dreamers. Delusional. Idealists. Spoiled. These are all words that some people use to describe the generation of young Americans. Well, it seems like the talkers can add “giving” and “volunteers” to the descriptions as well. In an article posted yesterday on The Nonprofit Times, the rate of volunteerism has increased in America, even as the economy worsens. And, these figures are being boosted by people between the ages of 16-24 years old! The Corporation for [...]

I had the extreme pleasure of coming across Charity Chicks Houston during a random Twitter search for “charity.” What I discovered has truly been amazing and inspiring all at once! After learning about Charity Chicks Orlando, Tam’ra and Jayme, decided to incorporate a similar idea in Houston. Charity Chicks have been fundraising and volunteering their services all over H-Town for some great causes. In the past, the group has volunteered at charity walks and raise [...]

This weekend during the Taste of River North, I’ll be volunteering inside the tent with supporters/staff of the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. On Sunday afternoon, I’ll be manning the booth while helping to raise awareness about the the strength of pediatric cancer fighters, sell raffle tickets and (of course) have some fun! It’s  supposed to be sunny and in the low- to mid-70s this week, so if you’re looking to sprinkle some service in [...]

Happy Wednesday! Here are a couple great Chicago service opportunities that I’ve come across! 7/11: From 10:45-2p, be part of an unique grocery shopping experience! Vital Bridges runs four grocery centers across Chicago that cater to the specific dietary needs of people living with HIV. Clients fill out their grocery menu and you shop the food pantry for the items. For the details, click here. 7/25-7/27: If you speak fluent Spanish and have great communication [...]

In keeping right along with my “Summer of Service” theme, here’s an opportunity to help prepare teenagers and young adults for career opportunities. Jobs for Youth is a Chicago nonprofit that provides workshops and development opportunities at no cost to participants. This summer, JFY has plenty of opportunities for volunteers to assist students with mock interviews and one-on-one workshops, such as Resume Writing. Volunteers can get trained to teach classroom workshops on networking and internet [...]

Hey, guys…I’m a day behind with the service opps, but here you go! Have fun Sat, 6/27: Head on over to Humboldt Park to help plant, weed, water, and organize the Campbell community garden from 10a-12p! Click here for details! Sat, 6/27: South Siders, come on out to Jackson Park and help cut brush, seed, and plant native species in Bobolink Meadow and Woods and on Wooded Island from 10a-1p! Click here for details! If [...]

At the beginning of the month, I promised that I would post some great summer volunteer opportunities for those of you who want to give back while enjoying the weather! Well, here you go! Check out a few upcoming opportunities! Wed, 6/17: Participate and supervise middle school students at Bontemps School (1241 W. 58th) for an afternoon of sports and outdoor activities, including soccer, basketball, volleyball and kickball. Click here for details! Sat, 6/20: Plant [...]

I’m trying to get better about doing recaps for the events that I attend…Here goes! In the past 24 hours, I’ve had the chance to take part in two GREAT events benefitting the Greater Chicago Food Depository! Wednesday night, I attended Heineken with a Heart, a bar event held at the always swanky Crimson Lounge.  I got there towards the end of the event so I only heard the last two minutes of the amazing [...]

Often, actually too often, I hear my peers tell me that they want to volunteer but don’t know where (or how) to get started. I won’t lie to you…When people tell me that phrase, my inner KB drifts to a land of confusion and skepticism. Why? It’s because I’m wondering if they are really telling me the truth! I was talking to Luvvie last night at the Heineken with a Heart event and mentioned to [...]

Morning, folks! It’s supposed to be in the mid-60s and even in the 70s tomorrow here in Chicago! I’m so so so excited to get a little taste of the springlike temps. I’m on my way to the MS Society to put in a few hours, so I’m going to keep this post pretty short and to the point!  It’s a beautiful day, not only because of the weather but because we’re alive! Let’s make [...]