fundraising

I believe that anything you really want to do you’ll do with love. That way, it resonates with everyone.

Judith Haskins, 70, couldn’t wait for Monday. As a teacher at the Cora Kelly School for Math, Science and Technology in Alexandria, Va., she knew her first-grade students would burst into her classroom with excitement. That’s because over the weekend, the nearby Hume Springs Park was transformed from a worn-out playground into a vibrant, multigenerational open area, complete with benches, shade, an inviting playground and adult exercise equipment.

What did you do this summer? Hit the beach? Visit the in-laws? Take the grandkids to Disney World?

Inspired by the 2003 Helen Mirren movie Calendar Girls, a dozen women of Riderwood Village retirement community in Maryland have bared (almost) all to raise money for fellow residents struggling financially.

A few weeks ago, I shared some thoughts on how to cut back on the mail/email you receive from well intentioned organizations. There were some excellent  comments from readers that pointed out some additional issues that may increase the volume of mail or emails you receive. So, here are some additional suggestions on how to clear the email/mail box:

 "Why do I get so much fundraising mail?"

The Federal Government is looking for money.  I know, big surprise.  Next target: remove the charitable gift deduction.

Have you ever noticed that when you buy a tube of toothpaste from the grocery store, that you never think the money you spend still belongs to you? Fact: you exchanged the money for the toothpaste. Toothpaste belongs to you and the money belongs to the store you bought it from. Quid pro quo, tit for tat, or as some say, "We're square."

Sometimes inspiration travels fast. As in 150-mph fast. Pull up a bucket seat and a roll cage and I'll explain.

NASCAR's Jeff Gordon drives. AARP state offices organize food collections. People donate food and money. Two Indiana teenagers raised $1,600 with a Hunger Honk-a-Thon......