Here’s a thought: instead of focusing on you, you, you in 2007, why not think about volunteering? Plus, it’s a great way to expand your circle of acquaintances and it never hurts a guy’s resume to have volunteer work on it.
Where to start? Contact Volunteer Toronto for a great network of charities who need your support. Or try the Toronto Volunteer Bridge, a group of young professionals who are working hard to bust up the stereotype that those of us in our twenties and thirties just can’t be bothered to do anything but make money and furnish our condos. They’ll help you pick something that’s right for you.
Big Brothers: The Big Brothers Toronto program has expanded beyond the original concept where a mentor spends two hours a week with a disadvantaged child. Now, you can meet your little buddy on school property and during school hours, or in a supervised group with other Big Brothers and their pals.
Daily Bread Food Bank: Nice people who feed 83,000 every month in the GTA. Help by donating time, money, or non-perishables.
Lake Ontario Waterkeeper: Here’s a thought: communities can actually hold big business accountable for polluting their watersheds. It just takes a ton of research and some feisty vounteers, plus the political strength of Bobby Kennedy Jr.
White Ribbon Campaign: The White Ribbon Campaign started in 1991 on the second anniversary of the Montreal Massacre with a group of men in Toronto concerned about violence against women. It’s now a network of organizations across 50 countries. One of the best ways for you to pitch in is to help raise dough, either as a volunteer at events, or as “ambassadors, advocates, champions in all business sectors”, says Todd Minerson, Executive Director.
Casey House: Casey House is one of the first and most renowned hospices for HIV/AIDS offering support, palliative and end of life services for patience with HIV and AIDS. You can help raise funds and provide administrative support. You can help with general hospice upkeep. Or, you can help residents and clients with personal care and companionship. The minimum volunteer commitment is one year.
