Hey Everyone,
It's been a busy weekend - Syd and I worked rather than taking the weekend off, so that we could get everything ready for November's Teleseminar - and you can register now!
By the way - even if you registered for the first one, you'll still need to register for this one!
The date is: Wednesday, November 7th
The time is: 10:00 a.m. EDT
The Subject: "How to Organize the Perfect Special Event in Less Time, With Fewer Hassles and without Losing Your Sanity or Your Volunteers!"
To register, just click the link above.
We made a few changes - for example, we are trying out a new company this time.
And you can choose whether to participate on the phone (and your regular long-distance charges will still apply) or on the Web - with no long-distance charges.
Also, we will be doing a question and answer period this time (if you choose the Webinar version, you will be able to type your questions in) and for the case studies this time - we're going to hold a smaller training next week - we'll answer your questions and help you with the planning of your next special event - and this time you'll be able to talk about what worked and what didn't during this training. However, the special training is limited to 25 people, so if you want to be one of the participants, you need to register right away!
As always, if you've got questions, just email us!
Talk to you soon,
Cheryl and Syd
Monday, October 15, 2007
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Resources
Hi everyone,
I'm working on creating a special workbook for you, and while I was doing it, I came across a some resources that I thought you would find very useful - and so I decided to post them here on the blog - but I'll also be putting them on the Activist Guide Website, so as time goes on, they'll always be available to you.
Here's my thought though...you might have some great resources too - that you've found, created or have been given. If you'd like to share them, here's a great place to post them!
You can also email me and if it's something that I can put up on the Website - with appropriate credit - I will!
Okay, here's the first one: It's a kind of Resource book for you to create for the next VISTA who serves at your project site - but it's also a great way for you to get organized and keep all the information you're gathering about your project and your community in one place!
Here's the Link:
Stone Soup Workbook
Let me know if you have any problems downloading it - and also, I'd love to hear what you think of it!
I'm working on creating a special workbook for you, and while I was doing it, I came across a some resources that I thought you would find very useful - and so I decided to post them here on the blog - but I'll also be putting them on the Activist Guide Website, so as time goes on, they'll always be available to you.
Here's my thought though...you might have some great resources too - that you've found, created or have been given. If you'd like to share them, here's a great place to post them!
You can also email me and if it's something that I can put up on the Website - with appropriate credit - I will!
Okay, here's the first one: It's a kind of Resource book for you to create for the next VISTA who serves at your project site - but it's also a great way for you to get organized and keep all the information you're gathering about your project and your community in one place!
Here's the Link:
Stone Soup Workbook
Let me know if you have any problems downloading it - and also, I'd love to hear what you think of it!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Check out the New Activist Guide Squidoo Lens - and give it some Social Loving!
Hey Everyone,
I just put together a "Squidoo" lens for the Activist Guide - and all of you. If you're not familiar with Squidoo it's part of the new "Web 2.0" - the social part of the Web - and it's a way that, if you use it right - you can get more volunteers, In-Kind donations, sponsors, even individual donors for your project.
In fact, we're going to be doing a teleseminar/webinar on that very topic in the next few months.
In the meantime, do me a favor and go check it out. You can find it here:
Activistguide Squidoo Lens
And if you already understand how to use delicious, digg and stumble upon, please click the little icons and give our new squidoo lens some "social lovin'!" If you don't know what I'm talking about, the short version is, by clicking the icons found on the squidoo lens page, you're helping to "bookmark" the site, and letting other people know that you like it. The more bookmarks a site gets, the more "popular" it becomes and the more traffic it gets...
Which is why I created the lens in the first place. I'm going to use it as a "case study" to show you what's possible for your own site, and how you can use it to get the word out about your project, and even get additional volunteers, raise more money and build a stronger, more sustainable project.
So something else you could do is to pass the word around - let your friends and family know about the squidoo lens, and give them a link to it and ask them to visit it and bookmark it using digg, stumbleupon and delicious. (If you are a "twitter" fan, you can even twitter about it.)
Okay guys, I'll be back in touch shortly...don't forget to go and check out the squidoo lens though! Activist Guide Squidoo Lens
I just put together a "Squidoo" lens for the Activist Guide - and all of you. If you're not familiar with Squidoo it's part of the new "Web 2.0" - the social part of the Web - and it's a way that, if you use it right - you can get more volunteers, In-Kind donations, sponsors, even individual donors for your project.
In fact, we're going to be doing a teleseminar/webinar on that very topic in the next few months.
In the meantime, do me a favor and go check it out. You can find it here:
Activistguide Squidoo Lens
And if you already understand how to use delicious, digg and stumble upon, please click the little icons and give our new squidoo lens some "social lovin'!" If you don't know what I'm talking about, the short version is, by clicking the icons found on the squidoo lens page, you're helping to "bookmark" the site, and letting other people know that you like it. The more bookmarks a site gets, the more "popular" it becomes and the more traffic it gets...
Which is why I created the lens in the first place. I'm going to use it as a "case study" to show you what's possible for your own site, and how you can use it to get the word out about your project, and even get additional volunteers, raise more money and build a stronger, more sustainable project.
So something else you could do is to pass the word around - let your friends and family know about the squidoo lens, and give them a link to it and ask them to visit it and bookmark it using digg, stumbleupon and delicious. (If you are a "twitter" fan, you can even twitter about it.)
Okay guys, I'll be back in touch shortly...don't forget to go and check out the squidoo lens though! Activist Guide Squidoo Lens
October Issue of "Spotlight Magazine" in the Works
If you've signed up for the teleseminar series, you can also receive "Spotlight Magazine" - the monthly magazine for VISTA Volunteers - where the spotlight is on you!
The magazine offers the latest product reviews, cutting-edge articles and each month puts the spotlight on a VISTA Volunteer and their project. We also accept submissions - so if you've got an event coming up, want to acknowledge your volunteers or just have something you want to get off your chest - then you can submit it to me and I'll add it to the magazine. Articles should be between 500 and 1,000 words long and must be your own original work. You'll get a byline, your article will be published in the magazine along with your photo and writer biography.
Also, if you've ever had a yen to work on a magazine - and are looking for some "behind the scenes" experience - especially if your VISTA term is about to end - let me know, because I'm looking for an intern. Although the position isn't a paid one at this moment - it does include the opportunity to apply for a sponsored trip to France, and work with me here for up to a month in the spring or summer next year.
If you haven't signed up to get a free subscription to the Spotlight Magazine, just click the link below and get on the mailing list!
Activist Guide Spotlight Magazine
The magazine offers the latest product reviews, cutting-edge articles and each month puts the spotlight on a VISTA Volunteer and their project. We also accept submissions - so if you've got an event coming up, want to acknowledge your volunteers or just have something you want to get off your chest - then you can submit it to me and I'll add it to the magazine. Articles should be between 500 and 1,000 words long and must be your own original work. You'll get a byline, your article will be published in the magazine along with your photo and writer biography.
Also, if you've ever had a yen to work on a magazine - and are looking for some "behind the scenes" experience - especially if your VISTA term is about to end - let me know, because I'm looking for an intern. Although the position isn't a paid one at this moment - it does include the opportunity to apply for a sponsored trip to France, and work with me here for up to a month in the spring or summer next year.
If you haven't signed up to get a free subscription to the Spotlight Magazine, just click the link below and get on the mailing list!
Activist Guide Spotlight Magazine
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Did You Catch the Teleseminar?
Man oh man! One of the things I learned when I was a VISTA is the importance of knowing and understanding that when you're trying to learn something new, things are going to go wrong - so plan for it, have a backup plan when possible, but be prepared to just deal with the problem and go on...
And that's exactly what happened! There was a glitch with the technology that we were using - and while you could hear us (Thank Goodness!) We couldn't hear you! (Which meant that we couldn't share the case studies with you - the people we'd been able to work with and do one-on-one In-Kind donation training...and we didn't get to open it up for your questions and answers.
So, okay - I'm still technologically challenged.
But - we had a great time, your feedback comments and suggestions have been terrific - keep them coming please! And most of all, you told us you liked the training and want more!
So we're putting together a complete plan - and we'll keep you updated on what's happening.
However - SAVE THE DATE:
November 7, 2007 - at 10:00 a.m. CDT.
November's teleseminar/Webinar is titled: "How to Organize the Perfect Event in Less Time, With Fewer Hassles and Without Losing Your Sanity or Your Volunteers"
So stay tuned because more details will be coming!
And that's exactly what happened! There was a glitch with the technology that we were using - and while you could hear us (Thank Goodness!) We couldn't hear you! (Which meant that we couldn't share the case studies with you - the people we'd been able to work with and do one-on-one In-Kind donation training...and we didn't get to open it up for your questions and answers.
So, okay - I'm still technologically challenged.
But - we had a great time, your feedback comments and suggestions have been terrific - keep them coming please! And most of all, you told us you liked the training and want more!
So we're putting together a complete plan - and we'll keep you updated on what's happening.
However - SAVE THE DATE:
November 7, 2007 - at 10:00 a.m. CDT.
November's teleseminar/Webinar is titled: "How to Organize the Perfect Event in Less Time, With Fewer Hassles and Without Losing Your Sanity or Your Volunteers"
So stay tuned because more details will be coming!
Thought for the Day
A girlfriend of mine sent this to me, and I thought it was good enough I wanted to share! (Thanks Deb!)
A Dog's Purpose (from a 6-year-old.)
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.
He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?" The six-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
A Dog's Purpose (from a 6-year-old.)
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.
He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?" The six-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
Friday, September 21, 2007
Wow - You Guys Really Rock! VISTAs RULE!
I'm so impressed by the work you guys are doing - and I'm having a blast getting to talk to some of you and working with you to find the In-Kind donations you need!
If I haven't been able to connect with you yet, be patient, because I'm working on it...the time difference thing is part of it and part of it has just been my crazy work schedule the last couple of weeks. I've had two different clients who are launching new projects and so things have been a little hectic to say the least.
In the meantime, I wanted to let you know that we've got close to 200 people signed up for the first teleseminar - "Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Getting In-Kind Donations But Didn't Know Who to Ask" - and that is just incredible! I love it!
In fact, I've decided to leave the reservations open right up until Monday, October 1st - and if you know of anyone who might want to participate in the seminar, give them the link and tell them to hurry up and get signed in.
Because there are more than double the number of people who want to attend than I had telephone lines for, I've made a decision to use a different provider - and the cool thing is, this
will now make the entire teleseminar interactive - and even better. It's NOT just a teleseminar any more - now I'm going to give you a Webinar!
And in case you're not familiar with that term, basically what it means is that you can "watch" the event from your computer (this works best if you have dsl rather than dialup by the way, guys.) Or you can call the phone number that you'll be getting next week (with your secret PIN#) and just listen in.
If you decide to watch it, you'll be able to ask questions, answer a couple of polls and even give us your evaluation - all from the comfort of your computer.
I'm using a company called "Go to Webinar" and they've got the capacity to handle everyone who has signed up so far - which means nobody will get locked out! This is very cool technology and Syd (my partner in this project) and I are going to be practicing on it next week.
By the way, if you haven't submitted your "most burning question" please do so - because we're going to try to answer all of them!
And - I'm submitting your donation letters to the professional copywriters - so if you haven't gotten yours in, there's still time...just do it quickly. Not all of them will be finished by the date of our webinar, but they will be done before the second one in November.
Okay all, I'm off to Monaco and Italy for the weekend, so you guys have fun and I'll be in touch on Monday!
If I haven't been able to connect with you yet, be patient, because I'm working on it...the time difference thing is part of it and part of it has just been my crazy work schedule the last couple of weeks. I've had two different clients who are launching new projects and so things have been a little hectic to say the least.
In the meantime, I wanted to let you know that we've got close to 200 people signed up for the first teleseminar - "Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Getting In-Kind Donations But Didn't Know Who to Ask" - and that is just incredible! I love it!
In fact, I've decided to leave the reservations open right up until Monday, October 1st - and if you know of anyone who might want to participate in the seminar, give them the link and tell them to hurry up and get signed in.
Because there are more than double the number of people who want to attend than I had telephone lines for, I've made a decision to use a different provider - and the cool thing is, this
will now make the entire teleseminar interactive - and even better. It's NOT just a teleseminar any more - now I'm going to give you a Webinar!
And in case you're not familiar with that term, basically what it means is that you can "watch" the event from your computer (this works best if you have dsl rather than dialup by the way, guys.) Or you can call the phone number that you'll be getting next week (with your secret PIN#) and just listen in.
If you decide to watch it, you'll be able to ask questions, answer a couple of polls and even give us your evaluation - all from the comfort of your computer.
I'm using a company called "Go to Webinar" and they've got the capacity to handle everyone who has signed up so far - which means nobody will get locked out! This is very cool technology and Syd (my partner in this project) and I are going to be practicing on it next week.
By the way, if you haven't submitted your "most burning question" please do so - because we're going to try to answer all of them!
And - I'm submitting your donation letters to the professional copywriters - so if you haven't gotten yours in, there's still time...just do it quickly. Not all of them will be finished by the date of our webinar, but they will be done before the second one in November.
Okay all, I'm off to Monaco and Italy for the weekend, so you guys have fun and I'll be in touch on Monday!
Friday, September 07, 2007
Make a Ripple
Quick Clarification: Please do not contact me about donating money!
Hi Everyone,
Listen things started getting TOO complicated - and the "Ripple Experiment" is designed to be simple!
So, I'm setting down some ground rules:
1. If you want to donate money - find a cause that you're passionate about - and contact the appropriate agency and just do it! (Don't forget to ask for a tax-deductible donation receipt.)
2. Please post something on this blog - even just to say Hi and say a word of encouragement for all these people who are spending a year of their lives working on poverty, social justice and environmental issues - they're making tangible ripples that are going to have an effect on our world.
3. If there is a project going on in your city, state or neighborhood and they need something that you have and are willing to give - please contact them and give it - make your own ripple.
Thank you!
Hi Everyone,
Listen things started getting TOO complicated - and the "Ripple Experiment" is designed to be simple!
So, I'm setting down some ground rules:
1. If you want to donate money - find a cause that you're passionate about - and contact the appropriate agency and just do it! (Don't forget to ask for a tax-deductible donation receipt.)
2. Please post something on this blog - even just to say Hi and say a word of encouragement for all these people who are spending a year of their lives working on poverty, social justice and environmental issues - they're making tangible ripples that are going to have an effect on our world.
3. If there is a project going on in your city, state or neighborhood and they need something that you have and are willing to give - please contact them and give it - make your own ripple.
Thank you!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
The Activist's Guide Experiment - Do You Believe One Person Can Make A Difference?
If you do, then will you help with an experiment?
Here it is in a nutshell: On Tuesday, October 2nd, I'm teaching a free teleclass to 150 or so VISTA Volunteers and others who are working for nonprofit organizations. In case you don't know, VISTA is like the domestic branch of the Peace Corps. You can find out all about the Corporation for Community and National Service and what VISTA Volunteers and Americorps Members do, by clicking the link above.
What I can tell you is that these are very dedicated, hardworking people who believe that one person can make a difference - and they're willing to spend up to a year of their lives proving it.
VISTAs have been providing a tremendous amount of help to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. They work with Habitat for Humanity building houses. They feed the poor, help the homeless and work with latch-key kids in after-school programs. They also work on environmental issues - in short, they're taking action to make our neighborhoods a better place to live.
So while I was going through their answers to the questions I asked them in preparation for this first free teleseminar, I suddenly had an idea for a great experiment. And that's why you're here.
I also believe that one person can make a difference - and I'd be grateful if you could help me prove it. Whatever cause you're the most passionate about, I'm inviting you to check the posts on this blog from now until October 1. I've asked the participants of the seminar to write a little bit about their projects and three things they need to help them make those projects successful.
Read through the things they need - and if there's something there that you can provide - please either get in touch with the VISTA Volunteer or me, to say what you can do. Donations of cash and checks are always appreciated - and you can either designate that it goes into a pool which I'll make sure is distributed equally among all the organizations (I'm working on finding a fiscal agent with a 501(c)(3) - so that your donation is tax deductible), or send the check to a specific organization.
And if you don't find something that you're passionate about on this list - look around - give something in your own neighborhood, hometown or to your favorite cause. Just please leave a post on the blog about what you've done to contribute to the "Activist Guide Experiment."
And if the only thing you want to do is pass the word to someone else that's great too! Just leave a note that you've done that - who knows what results your action will have? Whatever it is, you're making a difference just by reading about this and participating.
And, okay, my VISTAs - my secret is out - this is why I've asked you to post your comments about your projects and what you need, and this is the big "experiment"! Lets see what happens, shall we?
Here it is in a nutshell: On Tuesday, October 2nd, I'm teaching a free teleclass to 150 or so VISTA Volunteers and others who are working for nonprofit organizations. In case you don't know, VISTA is like the domestic branch of the Peace Corps. You can find out all about the Corporation for Community and National Service and what VISTA Volunteers and Americorps Members do, by clicking the link above.
What I can tell you is that these are very dedicated, hardworking people who believe that one person can make a difference - and they're willing to spend up to a year of their lives proving it.
VISTAs have been providing a tremendous amount of help to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. They work with Habitat for Humanity building houses. They feed the poor, help the homeless and work with latch-key kids in after-school programs. They also work on environmental issues - in short, they're taking action to make our neighborhoods a better place to live.
So while I was going through their answers to the questions I asked them in preparation for this first free teleseminar, I suddenly had an idea for a great experiment. And that's why you're here.
I also believe that one person can make a difference - and I'd be grateful if you could help me prove it. Whatever cause you're the most passionate about, I'm inviting you to check the posts on this blog from now until October 1. I've asked the participants of the seminar to write a little bit about their projects and three things they need to help them make those projects successful.
Read through the things they need - and if there's something there that you can provide - please either get in touch with the VISTA Volunteer or me, to say what you can do. Donations of cash and checks are always appreciated - and you can either designate that it goes into a pool which I'll make sure is distributed equally among all the organizations (I'm working on finding a fiscal agent with a 501(c)(3) - so that your donation is tax deductible), or send the check to a specific organization.
And if you don't find something that you're passionate about on this list - look around - give something in your own neighborhood, hometown or to your favorite cause. Just please leave a post on the blog about what you've done to contribute to the "Activist Guide Experiment."
And if the only thing you want to do is pass the word to someone else that's great too! Just leave a note that you've done that - who knows what results your action will have? Whatever it is, you're making a difference just by reading about this and participating.
And, okay, my VISTAs - my secret is out - this is why I've asked you to post your comments about your projects and what you need, and this is the big "experiment"! Lets see what happens, shall we?
Calling All In-Kind Donation Teleseminar Attendees - Yes, You're At the Right Place!
Okay guys - make your posts right here - put your name, your project and a little about it - what you're trying to do, who you're helping, where you're located at - and what 3 things you need to help you accomplish your goals! Come on, don't be shy! Let the Great Experiment Begin!
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Volunteers to help area seniors with yard work
| By: Jodi Sheridan - Texarkana Gazette - | Published: 06/14/2007 |
Senior citizens who are unable to keep their yards clean will soon have some relief from volunteers happy to push a lawn mower. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program is beginning its third year of cleaning and mowing yards for disabled and low-income senior citizens in Bowie, Miller and Little River counties. Cecelia Cole, an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, said a number of seniors cannot withstand the hot summer weather to maintain their yards. And there are many who can’t afford to hire someone. “We want to make sure their lawns are cleaned,” said Cole.
RSVP is recruiting volunteers from agencies, churches and individuals to adopt a yard or two for the summer and maintain it by doing regular yard work, like mowing, raking and weed trimming. Cole said each volunteer could adopt up to two yards, and would be required to work on them at least every other Saturday. They will not be required to spend more than two hours per week on any project. But she said they can work on the yards anytime they like.
“We want it flexible for them,” said Cole. RSVP also has several lawn mowers available as well as rakes. Cole said many volunteers provide their own equipment. “We’re just glad if anybody can help ... we’d be so grateful,” she said.
The program begins Saturday and goes through Sept. 1. In determining who is eligible, Cole said she conducts interviews over the phone with seniors interested. She said most who call qualify. “I really don’t turn down people too often,” she said.
Cole said there is a waiting list. There are liability forms to fill out, for both the seniors and volunteers. The service is free, but RSVP will take donations. For more information on the service or to become a volunteer, call the RSVP office at 870-779-4983.
Friday, June 01, 2007
If You're Blogging, Are You Using the Power of Trackbacks?
As you know, I've been blogging for a while now - sometimes not as often as I'd like to, especially for this blog, as it's strictly a labor of love.
If you're not blogging for your program, you should be. And if you are, I want to make sure that you're using the power of trackbacks.
If you don't know what a trackback is, it's kind of like the game "telephone" or "gossip" that you might have played as a kid...somebody gives you a message, and you deliver it to someone else, who delivers it to someone else, and so on and so forth.
The cool thing about trackbacks is that, unlike the game where the messsage sometimes gets garbled up, or doesn't get delivered at all, a trackback is a way for someone to talk about a post you made on your blog with the people they know...and if it's relevant, those people can talk about it to other people, and it goes on and on!
That's the beauty about social networking. The other reason that using trackbacks is so important is that they are a way to get your blog - and your Website listed in the search engines. The higher you're listed in the search engines, the easier people will be able to find your blog or your Website, and that will get you one step closer to achieving your goals and continuing with your mission.
So, how do you trackback? Click that link (with the word trackback) and be sure to read both posts. The guy who wrote it explains it a lot better than I can - in fact, he's the one who (finally) was able to make me understand what trackbacks are and how they work.
And then after you've read it, get busy and start doing it!
If you're not blogging for your program, you should be. And if you are, I want to make sure that you're using the power of trackbacks.
If you don't know what a trackback is, it's kind of like the game "telephone" or "gossip" that you might have played as a kid...somebody gives you a message, and you deliver it to someone else, who delivers it to someone else, and so on and so forth.
The cool thing about trackbacks is that, unlike the game where the messsage sometimes gets garbled up, or doesn't get delivered at all, a trackback is a way for someone to talk about a post you made on your blog with the people they know...and if it's relevant, those people can talk about it to other people, and it goes on and on!
That's the beauty about social networking. The other reason that using trackbacks is so important is that they are a way to get your blog - and your Website listed in the search engines. The higher you're listed in the search engines, the easier people will be able to find your blog or your Website, and that will get you one step closer to achieving your goals and continuing with your mission.
So, how do you trackback? Click that link (with the word trackback) and be sure to read both posts. The guy who wrote it explains it a lot better than I can - in fact, he's the one who (finally) was able to make me understand what trackbacks are and how they work.
And then after you've read it, get busy and start doing it!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
VISTA Program Reaches 500,000 Members - President Bush Personally Welcomes Alivia Sturgill to White House
White House Meeting with West Virginia AmeriCorps Member Part of AmeriCorps
Week
WASHINGTON, May 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- President Bush welcomed
West Virginia AmeriCorps member Alivia Sturgill to the Oval Office this
morning as part of a nationwide recognition week for the AmeriCorps
national service program as it reaches a historic milestone of 500,000
members.
"AmeriCorps was founded to encourage citizens to strengthen their
communities through acts of service. Today, thousands of AmeriCorps
volunteers contribute to a culture of compassion by mentoring children,
providing shelter for the homeless and performing countless other acts of
kindness. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness about volunteerism
and honor those who are making a difference in the lives of others," the
President said in greetings to those observing the first-ever AmeriCorps
Week.
"I am grateful for all those involved with AmeriCorps for your
dedication to a cause greater than self. Your compassionate efforts
demonstrate the great character of our country and inspire others to build
a more hopeful society," the President said.
To read the full text of the President's message:
http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/newsroom/statements_detail.asp?tbl_pr_id=698.
To view a photo of the President and AmeriCorps member Alivia Sturgill:
http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/newsroom/photos_press_detail.asp?tbl_pr_id=69
9
Sturgill, 24, will mentor low-income elementary students in rural Mingo
County this summer as part of the Energy Express AmeriCorps program run by
West Virginia University. Sturgill graduated last week from Midway College
in Kentucky with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and will
immediately put her training to work providing summer reading instruction
to students. AmeriCorps members in Energy Express have served more than
34,000 low-income and rural children across the state since 1996.
After meeting with the President, Sturgill joined 100 of her fellow
members from Washington, D.C. area AmeriCorps programs for a reception at
the Indian Treaty Room at the White House. They heard words of
congratulations from USA Freedom Corps Director Desiree Sayle and
Corporation for National and Community Service CEO David Eisner. AmeriCorps
Director Kristin McSwain led the members in taking the AmeriCorps pledge to
"get things done for America."
The President's recognition highlighted a series of more than 200
events for the first-ever AmeriCorps Week including service projects,
recruitment fairs, and recognition ceremonies. The U.S. House of
Representatives passed a resolution recognizing AmeriCorps for its
important contribution to our nation on Monday; and 19 Governors have
issued AmeriCorps Week proclamations.
"One of the President's major goals is building a national culture of
service and responsibility, and AmeriCorps is doing that every day in
profound and powerful ways in small towns and big cities all across
America," said David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National and
Community Service. "AmeriCorps members tackle our toughest problems; make
our communities safer and healthier; and improve the lives of tens of
millions of our most vulnerable citizens. AmeriCorps Week is a time to
thank these local heroes and ask more Americans to answer the call."
AmeriCorps was created by President Clinton and Congress in 1993 as a
way for Americans to give back to their communities and country and earn
money for college in return. President Bush first championed AmeriCorps as
Governor of Texas, where AmeriCorps members were a key part of his
statewide literacy initiative to get more third-graders up to basic reading
levels. As President, he successfully pushed for a 50 percent expansion of
AmeriCorps to 75,000 members each year. His Administration has also enacted
reforms to reduce costs, increase efficiency, devolve more authority to the
state and local level, and strengthen AmeriCorps focus on recruiting and
managing community volunteers.
AmeriCorps members have provided more than 637 million hours of service
since the first members began serving in 1994. Using Independent Sector's
estimate of the dollar value of a volunteer's time, those hours equate to
more than $11.9 billion in value. In addition to their direct service,
AmeriCorps members have proved to be a powerful force multiplier for
volunteer efforts. In 2006 alone, members recruited and managed 1.4 million
community volunteers. Once they complete their service, AmeriCorps alums
remain highly engaged and active in their communities, volunteering and
entering public service careers at disproportionately high levels.
AmeriCorps Week kicked off on Monday, when the Corporation for National
and Community Service announced AmeriCorps grants and education awards
totaling $172 million for 167 organizations across the United States. On
Wednesday, the agency released a new study showing that serving in
AmeriCorps is a way for individuals to gain valuable career skills,
leadership abilities, civic connections and a lasting ethic of volunteering
and civic engagement. Yesterday, agency leaders were in New Orleans to
launch an initiative to engage 200 AmeriCorps VISTA members in helping city
children and youth have safe and productive summers. This initiative
complements the NCCC Summer of Service, which will engage 300 14-17
year-old youth in a three-week residential program to carry out community
service projects in New Orleans, Charleston and Denver.
AmeriCorps Week ends this Sunday in Biloxi, Miss. with a closing
ceremony that also serves as the kickoff of Habitat for Humanity's annual
AmeriCorps Build-A-Thon. During the following five days of the
Build-A-Thon, hosted by Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast,
more than 500 AmeriCorps members and alumni from across the country will
blitz build 20 Habitat homes in Gulfport, Miss.
AmeriCorps is administered by the Corporation for National and
Community Service, which also oversees Senior Corps and Learn and Serve
America. Together with the USA Freedom Corps, the Corporation is working to
build a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in America. For
more information, visit http://www.nationalservice.gov.
SOURCE Corporation for National and Community Service
Week
WASHINGTON, May 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- President Bush welcomed
West Virginia AmeriCorps member Alivia Sturgill to the Oval Office this
morning as part of a nationwide recognition week for the AmeriCorps
national service program as it reaches a historic milestone of 500,000
members.
"AmeriCorps was founded to encourage citizens to strengthen their
communities through acts of service. Today, thousands of AmeriCorps
volunteers contribute to a culture of compassion by mentoring children,
providing shelter for the homeless and performing countless other acts of
kindness. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness about volunteerism
and honor those who are making a difference in the lives of others," the
President said in greetings to those observing the first-ever AmeriCorps
Week.
"I am grateful for all those involved with AmeriCorps for your
dedication to a cause greater than self. Your compassionate efforts
demonstrate the great character of our country and inspire others to build
a more hopeful society," the President said.
To read the full text of the President's message:
http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/newsroom/statements_detail.asp?tbl_pr_id=698.
To view a photo of the President and AmeriCorps member Alivia Sturgill:
http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/newsroom/photos_press_detail.asp?tbl_pr_id=69
9
Sturgill, 24, will mentor low-income elementary students in rural Mingo
County this summer as part of the Energy Express AmeriCorps program run by
West Virginia University. Sturgill graduated last week from Midway College
in Kentucky with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and will
immediately put her training to work providing summer reading instruction
to students. AmeriCorps members in Energy Express have served more than
34,000 low-income and rural children across the state since 1996.
After meeting with the President, Sturgill joined 100 of her fellow
members from Washington, D.C. area AmeriCorps programs for a reception at
the Indian Treaty Room at the White House. They heard words of
congratulations from USA Freedom Corps Director Desiree Sayle and
Corporation for National and Community Service CEO David Eisner. AmeriCorps
Director Kristin McSwain led the members in taking the AmeriCorps pledge to
"get things done for America."
The President's recognition highlighted a series of more than 200
events for the first-ever AmeriCorps Week including service projects,
recruitment fairs, and recognition ceremonies. The U.S. House of
Representatives passed a resolution recognizing AmeriCorps for its
important contribution to our nation on Monday; and 19 Governors have
issued AmeriCorps Week proclamations.
"One of the President's major goals is building a national culture of
service and responsibility, and AmeriCorps is doing that every day in
profound and powerful ways in small towns and big cities all across
America," said David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National and
Community Service. "AmeriCorps members tackle our toughest problems; make
our communities safer and healthier; and improve the lives of tens of
millions of our most vulnerable citizens. AmeriCorps Week is a time to
thank these local heroes and ask more Americans to answer the call."
AmeriCorps was created by President Clinton and Congress in 1993 as a
way for Americans to give back to their communities and country and earn
money for college in return. President Bush first championed AmeriCorps as
Governor of Texas, where AmeriCorps members were a key part of his
statewide literacy initiative to get more third-graders up to basic reading
levels. As President, he successfully pushed for a 50 percent expansion of
AmeriCorps to 75,000 members each year. His Administration has also enacted
reforms to reduce costs, increase efficiency, devolve more authority to the
state and local level, and strengthen AmeriCorps focus on recruiting and
managing community volunteers.
AmeriCorps members have provided more than 637 million hours of service
since the first members began serving in 1994. Using Independent Sector's
estimate of the dollar value of a volunteer's time, those hours equate to
more than $11.9 billion in value. In addition to their direct service,
AmeriCorps members have proved to be a powerful force multiplier for
volunteer efforts. In 2006 alone, members recruited and managed 1.4 million
community volunteers. Once they complete their service, AmeriCorps alums
remain highly engaged and active in their communities, volunteering and
entering public service careers at disproportionately high levels.
AmeriCorps Week kicked off on Monday, when the Corporation for National
and Community Service announced AmeriCorps grants and education awards
totaling $172 million for 167 organizations across the United States. On
Wednesday, the agency released a new study showing that serving in
AmeriCorps is a way for individuals to gain valuable career skills,
leadership abilities, civic connections and a lasting ethic of volunteering
and civic engagement. Yesterday, agency leaders were in New Orleans to
launch an initiative to engage 200 AmeriCorps VISTA members in helping city
children and youth have safe and productive summers. This initiative
complements the NCCC Summer of Service, which will engage 300 14-17
year-old youth in a three-week residential program to carry out community
service projects in New Orleans, Charleston and Denver.
AmeriCorps Week ends this Sunday in Biloxi, Miss. with a closing
ceremony that also serves as the kickoff of Habitat for Humanity's annual
AmeriCorps Build-A-Thon. During the following five days of the
Build-A-Thon, hosted by Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast,
more than 500 AmeriCorps members and alumni from across the country will
blitz build 20 Habitat homes in Gulfport, Miss.
AmeriCorps is administered by the Corporation for National and
Community Service, which also oversees Senior Corps and Learn and Serve
America. Together with the USA Freedom Corps, the Corporation is working to
build a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in America. For
more information, visit http://www.nationalservice.gov.
SOURCE Corporation for National and Community Service
Friday, May 25, 2007
Community Organizing 101 - How to Create an Effective Grassroots Campaign
Start with the general problem you're working on - A PROBLEM is a negative condition that people in your community are experiencing. A problem is always very general, affects several people or groups of people and if asked, most people will agree that it is a problem.
Examples of problems include: Crime on the streets,unemployment, substandard housing conditions.
Next, choose an issue that you're going to work on. An ISSUE is winnable or loseable. It is specific, relates to the problem, but not everyone is going to agree on it.
Examples of issues include: For the police and city to provide afternoon and evening youth programs and specialized activities for kids who are either gang members or are vulnerable to joining a gang.
The next step is to conduct research about the problem that is going to strengthen your case, and help you figure out who your adversaries are, and develop your tactics. (For example, what time do most crimes occur that involve gangs or the youth of the ages you're targeting. Who is being arrested? How many youth are at-risk in your community?)
Now decide what your Recomendations/Requests (demands) are. RECOMMENDATIONS/DEMANDS are the specific requests you're going to make that will address or solve the problem. Demands mist be specific and measurable so that everyone will know when you've achieved your goal or won your issue.
Examples of demands or recommendations could be: Demand that the city and police budgets include specific activities for gang members as well as non-gang members. Demand that the city include youth representatives from the community to participate in planning and organizing activities.
Next determine who your Advesaries/Enemies/Targets are. ADVERSARIES are the people who have the power to make changes on your issues or the problem, but are probably going to have objections. (You'll need to make a plan to overcome those objections in order to win - so the more information and research you can gather in the beginning, the better your chances are.)
The next step is to determine who your Friends and supporters are. FRIENDS are the people, groups, organizations and businesses you can count on to be on your side and supportive of your issues or who are working on the problem also. Figure out how closely they need to be involved (or will want to be involved) in working on this issue. Put together several different action plans requiring different levels of commitment and involvement. For example, a simple action could be to start a letter writing or petition campaign. People only have to write a letter (or sign onto one that's already been drafted), or sign their name onto a petition to show support. Create other actions with increasingly more involved levels of support, and put together all of the necessary materials, background information and resources that will be needed. To be effective you need to make it as simple to get involved as possible, and have something to do for each level of action you choose to have available.
Note: Whatever action you choose to take, make sure that it's within the experience of the people who are working on the issue. That's not to say that it has to be inside their comfort zone - it doesn't. But whatever action you take needs to be at their level of ability and capability, and they need to be invested in the success of the issue and of the problem.
Once you understand the problem, have your issue and your volunteers have decided on a course of action and developed a project (grassroots campaign), it's the VISTA Volunteer or Project Manager's responsibility to see that it's carried out. Not to do all the work yourself - but oversee the details and make sure that everything is staying on track.
Examples of problems include: Crime on the streets,unemployment, substandard housing conditions.
Next, choose an issue that you're going to work on. An ISSUE is winnable or loseable. It is specific, relates to the problem, but not everyone is going to agree on it.
Examples of issues include: For the police and city to provide afternoon and evening youth programs and specialized activities for kids who are either gang members or are vulnerable to joining a gang.
The next step is to conduct research about the problem that is going to strengthen your case, and help you figure out who your adversaries are, and develop your tactics. (For example, what time do most crimes occur that involve gangs or the youth of the ages you're targeting. Who is being arrested? How many youth are at-risk in your community?)
Now decide what your Recomendations/Requests (demands) are. RECOMMENDATIONS/DEMANDS are the specific requests you're going to make that will address or solve the problem. Demands mist be specific and measurable so that everyone will know when you've achieved your goal or won your issue.
Examples of demands or recommendations could be: Demand that the city and police budgets include specific activities for gang members as well as non-gang members. Demand that the city include youth representatives from the community to participate in planning and organizing activities.
Next determine who your Advesaries/Enemies/Targets are. ADVERSARIES are the people who have the power to make changes on your issues or the problem, but are probably going to have objections. (You'll need to make a plan to overcome those objections in order to win - so the more information and research you can gather in the beginning, the better your chances are.)
The next step is to determine who your Friends and supporters are. FRIENDS are the people, groups, organizations and businesses you can count on to be on your side and supportive of your issues or who are working on the problem also. Figure out how closely they need to be involved (or will want to be involved) in working on this issue. Put together several different action plans requiring different levels of commitment and involvement. For example, a simple action could be to start a letter writing or petition campaign. People only have to write a letter (or sign onto one that's already been drafted), or sign their name onto a petition to show support. Create other actions with increasingly more involved levels of support, and put together all of the necessary materials, background information and resources that will be needed. To be effective you need to make it as simple to get involved as possible, and have something to do for each level of action you choose to have available.
Note: Whatever action you choose to take, make sure that it's within the experience of the people who are working on the issue. That's not to say that it has to be inside their comfort zone - it doesn't. But whatever action you take needs to be at their level of ability and capability, and they need to be invested in the success of the issue and of the problem.
Once you understand the problem, have your issue and your volunteers have decided on a course of action and developed a project (grassroots campaign), it's the VISTA Volunteer or Project Manager's responsibility to see that it's carried out. Not to do all the work yourself - but oversee the details and make sure that everything is staying on track.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Plan Your Service Project For National & Global Youth Service Day 2007
National & Global Youth Service Day, the largest service event in the world, is April 20-22, 2007. Resources are available to help you plan your service project:
*Order or download free planning resources: Planning Tool Kits, Service-Learning Curriculum Guides, posters are available at www.ysa.org/nysd/resource/planning.cfm.
The Planning Tool Kit is a comprehensive guide to help project planners identify their projects, recruit volunteers, generate media attention, raise funds, and more. The Service-Learning Curriculum Guide contains eight lessons to develop students' project management skills while planning projects for National & Global Youth Service Day. Classroom Posters are colorful tools to recruit volunteers and decorate project sites. The back of the poster contains a guide for teachers and activity sheets for students.
*Apply for a grant to support your project: Youth Service America is pleased to offer grants to help young people and organizations plan and implement service projects for National & Global Youth Service Day and beyond. Current grant opportunities include National Crime Prevention Council Grants; Red, White, and Green Climate Change Grants; and YSA Youth Venture Program Grants (to support sustainable social ventures). Visit www.YSA.org/awards for more information.
*Order or download free planning resources: Planning Tool Kits, Service-Learning Curriculum Guides, posters are available at www.ysa.org/nysd/resource/planning.cfm.
The Planning Tool Kit is a comprehensive guide to help project planners identify their projects, recruit volunteers, generate media attention, raise funds, and more. The Service-Learning Curriculum Guide contains eight lessons to develop students' project management skills while planning projects for National & Global Youth Service Day. Classroom Posters are colorful tools to recruit volunteers and decorate project sites. The back of the poster contains a guide for teachers and activity sheets for students.
*Apply for a grant to support your project: Youth Service America is pleased to offer grants to help young people and organizations plan and implement service projects for National & Global Youth Service Day and beyond. Current grant opportunities include National Crime Prevention Council Grants; Red, White, and Green Climate Change Grants; and YSA Youth Venture Program Grants (to support sustainable social ventures). Visit www.YSA.org/awards for more information.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
VISTA Volunteer Organizes Student Volunteers for Food Pantry and more...
Community groups support pantry
By Cathy Gilbertie Knipper
Friday, December 15, 2006 - Updated: 09:33 AM EST
They are businesses and community organizations. They are individuals and groups. Some, like the recipients who frequent the doors Cupboard of Kindness, Norton’s food pantry, come only for a short time, some are regulars, but all have a common goal — to support those in need.
Valerie Goddard, director of Cupboard of Kindness, says there are so many in town who help out, it is difficult to identify only a few groups. From Selectman Robert Kimball who found a permanent site for the pantry to the schools who run many food drives to individual businesses like Roche Brothers and Norton Car Wash which provide continual monthly support, Goddard said she welcomes all donations from the community.
“People ask, ‘What can we do to make a difference?’” Goddard said. “If every business had a food drive, that would make an enormous difference.”
For Ryan Henke, director of the Wheaton College Service, Spirituality and Social Responsibility office, the food pantry is part of the school’s mission.
“We like to show students there’s a need in your local community and you can make a difference where you are,” Henke said.
Henke , an AmeriCorps*VISTA member, began work at Wheaton in July, and reinstituted the freshman orientation community service program, where incoming students volunteer in the community. Four freshmen spent an afternoon cleaning and stocking the pantry during the first week of September.
During homecoming weekend, Wheaton’s Class of 1956 donated $1,500 to the food pantry and Henke challenged students, staff and alumni to meet the donation in a cans-to-dollars match. The three-week food drive netted 1,587 non-perishable items for the pantry.
Henke said students enjoy volunteering in the community, but for many students, transportation is an issue, which makes the pantry a perfect match. The pantry is a short walk from campus and he knows students are safe and welcome there.
To read the rest of this article that can give you some good ideas for volunteer projects, click the link.
By Cathy Gilbertie Knipper
Friday, December 15, 2006 - Updated: 09:33 AM EST
They are businesses and community organizations. They are individuals and groups. Some, like the recipients who frequent the doors Cupboard of Kindness, Norton’s food pantry, come only for a short time, some are regulars, but all have a common goal — to support those in need.
Valerie Goddard, director of Cupboard of Kindness, says there are so many in town who help out, it is difficult to identify only a few groups. From Selectman Robert Kimball who found a permanent site for the pantry to the schools who run many food drives to individual businesses like Roche Brothers and Norton Car Wash which provide continual monthly support, Goddard said she welcomes all donations from the community.
“People ask, ‘What can we do to make a difference?’” Goddard said. “If every business had a food drive, that would make an enormous difference.”
For Ryan Henke, director of the Wheaton College Service, Spirituality and Social Responsibility office, the food pantry is part of the school’s mission.
“We like to show students there’s a need in your local community and you can make a difference where you are,” Henke said.
Henke , an AmeriCorps*VISTA member, began work at Wheaton in July, and reinstituted the freshman orientation community service program, where incoming students volunteer in the community. Four freshmen spent an afternoon cleaning and stocking the pantry during the first week of September.
During homecoming weekend, Wheaton’s Class of 1956 donated $1,500 to the food pantry and Henke challenged students, staff and alumni to meet the donation in a cans-to-dollars match. The three-week food drive netted 1,587 non-perishable items for the pantry.
Henke said students enjoy volunteering in the community, but for many students, transportation is an issue, which makes the pantry a perfect match. The pantry is a short walk from campus and he knows students are safe and welcome there.
To read the rest of this article that can give you some good ideas for volunteer projects, click the link.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Low Income Families in Houston to Bridge the Digital Divide thanks to Habitat for Humanity and AT&T
Houston Habitat for Humanity Connects Low-Income Residents with Vital Technology Resources
Saturday December 16, 10:00 am ET
Through Nation's Largest In-Home Technology Access Initiative, AT&T AccessAll Will Provide Computers, Internet Access, Training to 300 Houston Families
HOUSTON, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Houston Habitat for Humanity announced today that it has teamed with AT&T to bring technology resources to 300 low-income Houston families under the three-year, $100 million AT&T AccessAll signature initiative. AT&T AccessAll is the nation's largest-ever program designed to provide in-home Internet and technology access, benefiting 50,000 low-income families across the country through a unique collaboration with One Economy Corporation, Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other low-income housing providers.
To read more about the technology resources and the AT&T initiative click the link.
Saturday December 16, 10:00 am ET
Through Nation's Largest In-Home Technology Access Initiative, AT&T AccessAll Will Provide Computers, Internet Access, Training to 300 Houston Families
HOUSTON, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Houston Habitat for Humanity announced today that it has teamed with AT&T to bring technology resources to 300 low-income Houston families under the three-year, $100 million AT&T AccessAll signature initiative. AT&T AccessAll is the nation's largest-ever program designed to provide in-home Internet and technology access, benefiting 50,000 low-income families across the country through a unique collaboration with One Economy Corporation, Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other low-income housing providers.
To read more about the technology resources and the AT&T initiative click the link.
Friday, December 15, 2006
The White House Summit On Malaria
On December 14, 2006, The President And Mrs. Bush Will Host The First-Ever White House Summit On Malaria In Washington, D.C. The White House Summit on Malaria will bring together international experts; corporations and foundations; African civic leaders; and voluntary, faith-based and non-profit organizations. The Summit's goals are to raise awareness of malaria and to mobilize a grassroots effort to save millions of lives in Africa. One American with just $10 can help save a life in Africa. A school, a church, or a team can help save a village. Together, Americans can help protect an entire continent.
The President’s Malaria Initiative Is Saving Lives. President Bush announced the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) in June 2005. A five-year, $1.2 billion program, PMI challenges the private sector to join the U.S. government in combating malaria in 15 of the hardest-hit African countries. PMI's goal is to cut malaria’s mortality rate by 50 percent in these target countries, freeing these African nations and their citizens from the grip of debilitating disease.
* Through Partnerships Working In The First Three Target Countries – Angola, Tanzania And Uganda – Aid From The American People Has Already Reached About Six Million Africans. In 2007, 30 million more will receive life-saving medicines, sprays, and nets as the program expands. Other target countries include: Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Senegal.
* PMI Has Helped Deliver Bed Nets In Zanzibar In Tanzania Where Malaria Is The Leading Cause Of Death. In early 2006, PMI and the Global Fund collaborated to distribute more than 230,000 insecticide-treated bed nets to the people of Zanzibar. Zanzibar has seen a startling decrease in its reported malaria cases and quicker recovery for those infected:
o The number of confirmed malaria cases on Pemba Island dropped 87% from January to September in 2006 to 1,570 down from 12,531 over the same period last year, according to local health reports.
o In Zanzibar, malaria was greatly reduced among children under age five after new U.S. and other assistance began, according to local health officials. The success in Zanzibar shows that malaria can be controlled in larger regions.
The White House Summit On Malaria Will:
* Announce Eight New PMI Target Countries. The President will announce eight additional countries designated as PMI target countries: Benin, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia Madagascar, Mali and Zambia.
* Launch The Malaria Communities Program. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) will launch the Malaria Communities Program, a $30 million initiative to build independent, sustainable malaria-control projects in Africa by providing grants to African NGOs and religious groups to support their malaria-control work. These initiatives will protect children and families and will help citizens take charge of their own health.
* Create “Volunteers For Prosperity” Program For Malaria. Many groups fighting malaria depend on the generosity of skilled professionals like doctors and nurses, who volunteer their services far from home. Through the President’s Volunteers for Prosperity program, organizations involved in the President’s Malaria Initiative can receive grants for highly skilled volunteers to contribute their efforts to combating malaria in Africa.
* Designate April 25, 2007 As “Malaria Awareness Day.” The more people know about this disease, the more quickly we can defeat it. President Bush will designate April 25, 2007, as “Malaria Awareness Day.” African countries and other nations commemorate April 25 to raise global awareness of malaria, and to reaffirm their commitment to fighting this disease. The United States is proud to stand with them.
White House Summit On Malaria Themes
* The Challenge Of Malaria In Africa. One child dies in Africa every 30 seconds from malaria. At least one million infants and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa die each year from the mosquito-borne disease. Older children and adults who do get malaria lose an average of six weeks at school or work from illness. This disrupts business and leaves poor families short of income, food, and medicine.
* The Power Of Public-Private Partnerships. Mobilizing private sector support is a key component in controlling malaria in Africa. When governments partner with NGOs, corporations and foundations, faith-based and service organizations and private citizens, the combined effort can save lives, educate the public about malaria, and send a global message. Public-private partnerships enable the U.S. government and its other partners to maximize their effectiveness and support a comprehensive approach to control malaria.Organizations at the summit announced commitments to dedicate additional resources to put thousands of new boots on the ground and to help defeat malaria.
* Growing The Grassroots. Powerful grassroots movements can raise awareness of malaria, and highlight ways that organizations and individuals can get involved in combating this preventable disease in Africa. With new enthusiastic efforts from Malaria No More and other organizations, America’s corporations and foundations, NGOs and non-profit organizations, individuals and America’s young people are being challenged to save lives and build a bridge between peoples.
Partnering Together To Fight Malaria
No Single Organization Or Entity Can Solve Global Health Issues Facing Africa. Groups like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ExxonMobil, the Global Fund, Malaria No More and Saddleback Church are rising to President Bush’s challenge and mobilizing private sector support to defeat malaria in Africa.
White House Summit On Malaria Partners Include:
* The Office of the Coordinator for the President’s Malaria Initiative at the U.S. Agency For International Development
* The Office of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the U.S. State Department
* Malaria No More
The President’s Malaria Initiative Is Saving Lives. President Bush announced the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) in June 2005. A five-year, $1.2 billion program, PMI challenges the private sector to join the U.S. government in combating malaria in 15 of the hardest-hit African countries. PMI's goal is to cut malaria’s mortality rate by 50 percent in these target countries, freeing these African nations and their citizens from the grip of debilitating disease.
* Through Partnerships Working In The First Three Target Countries – Angola, Tanzania And Uganda – Aid From The American People Has Already Reached About Six Million Africans. In 2007, 30 million more will receive life-saving medicines, sprays, and nets as the program expands. Other target countries include: Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Senegal.
* PMI Has Helped Deliver Bed Nets In Zanzibar In Tanzania Where Malaria Is The Leading Cause Of Death. In early 2006, PMI and the Global Fund collaborated to distribute more than 230,000 insecticide-treated bed nets to the people of Zanzibar. Zanzibar has seen a startling decrease in its reported malaria cases and quicker recovery for those infected:
o The number of confirmed malaria cases on Pemba Island dropped 87% from January to September in 2006 to 1,570 down from 12,531 over the same period last year, according to local health reports.
o In Zanzibar, malaria was greatly reduced among children under age five after new U.S. and other assistance began, according to local health officials. The success in Zanzibar shows that malaria can be controlled in larger regions.
The White House Summit On Malaria Will:
* Announce Eight New PMI Target Countries. The President will announce eight additional countries designated as PMI target countries: Benin, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia Madagascar, Mali and Zambia.
* Launch The Malaria Communities Program. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) will launch the Malaria Communities Program, a $30 million initiative to build independent, sustainable malaria-control projects in Africa by providing grants to African NGOs and religious groups to support their malaria-control work. These initiatives will protect children and families and will help citizens take charge of their own health.
* Create “Volunteers For Prosperity” Program For Malaria. Many groups fighting malaria depend on the generosity of skilled professionals like doctors and nurses, who volunteer their services far from home. Through the President’s Volunteers for Prosperity program, organizations involved in the President’s Malaria Initiative can receive grants for highly skilled volunteers to contribute their efforts to combating malaria in Africa.
* Designate April 25, 2007 As “Malaria Awareness Day.” The more people know about this disease, the more quickly we can defeat it. President Bush will designate April 25, 2007, as “Malaria Awareness Day.” African countries and other nations commemorate April 25 to raise global awareness of malaria, and to reaffirm their commitment to fighting this disease. The United States is proud to stand with them.
White House Summit On Malaria Themes
* The Challenge Of Malaria In Africa. One child dies in Africa every 30 seconds from malaria. At least one million infants and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa die each year from the mosquito-borne disease. Older children and adults who do get malaria lose an average of six weeks at school or work from illness. This disrupts business and leaves poor families short of income, food, and medicine.
* The Power Of Public-Private Partnerships. Mobilizing private sector support is a key component in controlling malaria in Africa. When governments partner with NGOs, corporations and foundations, faith-based and service organizations and private citizens, the combined effort can save lives, educate the public about malaria, and send a global message. Public-private partnerships enable the U.S. government and its other partners to maximize their effectiveness and support a comprehensive approach to control malaria.Organizations at the summit announced commitments to dedicate additional resources to put thousands of new boots on the ground and to help defeat malaria.
* Growing The Grassroots. Powerful grassroots movements can raise awareness of malaria, and highlight ways that organizations and individuals can get involved in combating this preventable disease in Africa. With new enthusiastic efforts from Malaria No More and other organizations, America’s corporations and foundations, NGOs and non-profit organizations, individuals and America’s young people are being challenged to save lives and build a bridge between peoples.
Partnering Together To Fight Malaria
No Single Organization Or Entity Can Solve Global Health Issues Facing Africa. Groups like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ExxonMobil, the Global Fund, Malaria No More and Saddleback Church are rising to President Bush’s challenge and mobilizing private sector support to defeat malaria in Africa.
White House Summit On Malaria Partners Include:
* The Office of the Coordinator for the President’s Malaria Initiative at the U.S. Agency For International Development
* The Office of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the U.S. State Department
* Malaria No More
President Bush Recognizes Cairo Woman for Dedication to Volunteer Service
President George W. Bush will present the President’s Volunteer Service Award to Holly Theis when he arrives at the airport in Grand Island, Nebraska, on Sunday, November, 5, 2006. Theis is a volunteer with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. To thank them for making a difference in the lives of others, President Bush honors a local volunteer, called a USA Freedom Corps Greeter, when he travels throughout the United States. President Bush has met with more than 550 individuals around the country, like Theis, since March 2002.
Theis has been a volunteer for two years with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. She is currently assisting with the construction on her fourth Habitat for Humanity home. Theis also serves as the Family Support Volunteer who helps the Partner Family feel welcome in their new home and neighborhood. In addition, she participates in fundraising activities, serves on the Finance Committee and is the Habitat for Humanity liaison to the Central Nebraska Home Builders Association.
In his January 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to make a difference in their communities through volunteer service. He created USA Freedom Corps, an Office of the White House, to strengthen and expand volunteer service. Americans are responding to the President’s Call to Service. Go to www.volunteer.gov or call 1-877-USA-CORPS to find an existing volunteer service opportunity in your area or to find more information about service programs, including national service programs such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Citizen Corps. USA Freedom Corps is also highlighting youth volunteer service. Visit www.volunteerkids.gov for games and ideas designed to show how America's youth are making a difference.
The President's Volunteer Service Award was created at the President’s direction by the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Award is available to youth ages 14 and under who have completed 50 or more hours of volunteer service; to individuals 15 and older who have completed 100 or more hours; and to families or groups who have completed 200 or more hours. For more information about the Award, please visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov.
Theis has been a volunteer for two years with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. She is currently assisting with the construction on her fourth Habitat for Humanity home. Theis also serves as the Family Support Volunteer who helps the Partner Family feel welcome in their new home and neighborhood. In addition, she participates in fundraising activities, serves on the Finance Committee and is the Habitat for Humanity liaison to the Central Nebraska Home Builders Association.
In his January 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to make a difference in their communities through volunteer service. He created USA Freedom Corps, an Office of the White House, to strengthen and expand volunteer service. Americans are responding to the President’s Call to Service. Go to www.volunteer.gov or call 1-877-USA-CORPS to find an existing volunteer service opportunity in your area or to find more information about service programs, including national service programs such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Citizen Corps. USA Freedom Corps is also highlighting youth volunteer service. Visit www.volunteerkids.gov for games and ideas designed to show how America's youth are making a difference.
The President's Volunteer Service Award was created at the President’s direction by the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Award is available to youth ages 14 and under who have completed 50 or more hours of volunteer service; to individuals 15 and older who have completed 100 or more hours; and to families or groups who have completed 200 or more hours. For more information about the Award, please visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov.
Intake Survey for Volunteer Managers
As you recruit for volunteers of all ages and abilities for your organization, you can conduct an intake survey focused on interests and experiences of volunteers to best determine if someone is a qualified individual for a service position. The Independent Sector, a non-profit organization created a survey to assist organizations in the recruitment and placement process of service members with and without disabilities. You can view this survey at http://www.independentsector.org/GandV/volunteer.htm.
The Independent Sector is the leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. This coalition of approximately 550 organizations leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the charitable community in order to fulfill the vision of a just and inclusive society and a healthy democracy of active citizens, effective institutions, and vibrant communities.
As always, the team at the National Service Inclusion Project are here to answer any questions you might have concerning the inclusion of people with disabilities in national service. Please contact us toll-free at 1-888-491-0326 voice/TTY or email us at nsip@umb.edu.
Lucy Bayard
Training Specialist
National Service Inclusion Project
www.serviceandinclusion.org
The Independent Sector is the leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. This coalition of approximately 550 organizations leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the charitable community in order to fulfill the vision of a just and inclusive society and a healthy democracy of active citizens, effective institutions, and vibrant communities.
As always, the team at the National Service Inclusion Project are here to answer any questions you might have concerning the inclusion of people with disabilities in national service. Please contact us toll-free at 1-888-491-0326 voice/TTY or email us at nsip@umb.edu.
Lucy Bayard
Training Specialist
National Service Inclusion Project
www.serviceandinclusion.org
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
