AOK in May!

Inspired by some seriously cool ideas for Random Acts of Kindness I've seen on Pinterest, I've decided to devote May to these ideals.  I've been trying to think of a way for a while now to get my friends and colleagues involved so it's not just a solitary thing. In theory, more money can be made and more good can be done when you have more people chipping in to support the cause.  But for some reason, I was having issues thinking of a way to do this.  Random Acts of Kindness are a wonderful idea in theory, but it's hard to work out a way to gain donations for a cause based on that idea.

Yesterday inspiration struck and , I may have cracked my own problem.  Our AOK May might be a little away from randomness but I think it could work, as long as I bug and cajole people enough.  So here's the plan.  Each week in May, and one in June because we had so many good ideas, we're picking a charity to donate money and more importantly stuff to.  I've learned that most big organizations have lists of things they desperately need donated which works out perfectly.  For some reason, I feel it's easier to give things rather than money.  I'm not sure other people feel this way, but I'm hoping they do!

So if you want to get involved with our organizations, they're listed with links to the wish lists below.  But if you want to get really creative, start your very own AOK May and help out the charities and organizations that mean something special to you.  Everyone needs a little kindness in their lives!

Week One : Maryland SPCA

(Everything a puppy or a kitten needs, can be found at Target or the Dollar Store.  Imagine how many animals you can help with just a few dollars!)

 

Week Two: An Elementary School

 (Schools are fabulous places to donate to.  They're always in need of crayons, pencils, paper, coloring books, etc.  Think about making a donation to a school in your neighborhood!)

Week Three: Maryland House of Ruth

(If you're not familiar, the House of Ruth provides housing and assistance to battered women and their families.  They allow the women and children time to get out of the dangerous situations they're living in and a chance to make a fresh start.)

 

Week 4: Johns Hopkins Children's Center

(If you're hoping to donate JHU Children's, please pay close attention to the wish list requirements.  Because of the nature of the center and all centers like it, certain items can't be accepted.)

 

Week 5: Bello Machre

(Bello Machre is a Maryland based organization working to enrich the lives of the developmentally disabled in the area.  Because of the work they do, what they are most in need of are cash donations to support their residents.)