Bidding for Charity

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:18:06 +0000

I love feel good stories. The idea of helping those who are struggling just puts a good feeling inside. Though recently, it seems like the amount of people that are struggling has become a majority rather than a rare site. As I was looking recently at some items being auctioned off for the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, I came across a company called ‘bidding for good.’ It is definitely one of those feel good companies that everyone should look into.

In addition to offering bargains on items being auctioned off and having items that are nearly impossible to get elsewhere (they did have a wii fit in their line-up going for just $75), the profits from these auctions go towards charity. Their byline is ‘great deals, good causes, good gifts.’ It doesn’t matter where you live or what charities you support, you are sure to find something that you are passionate about. Some local charities with active auctions include Deliver the Dream, International Rhino Foundation and National Parkinson Foundation. Other charities include Boys & Girls Club, AIDS Network, First Night and Habitat For Humanity.

They also have a gift guide. Whether you are shopping for your neighbor, teacher, boss or loved one, you are able to narrow down that search. You can also search for once-in-a-lifetime experiences (think Paris culinary adventure), the cause you support or for a specific item. If you are in charge of raising funds for a specific charity, they have easy instructions and contact information on how to begin. To date, they have raised over $50 million. Now’s your time to join in the success.

Image Credit: by Bonnie @ flickr

Post from: The South Florida Traveler

Make a Child’s Dreams Come True this Holiday Season

Sat, 06 Dec 2008 19:18:48 +0000

Every year, as December rolls around, children sit around the table dreaming up their wish list of what gifts they hope Santa will bring them. But what happens when money is so tight that some parents of these children are struggling to pay their bills. Will their children’s dreams come true or will they fall through the cracks? That’s where Toys For Tots comes in.

This 501c3 began in 1947 when Major Bill Hendricks, USMCR and a group of Marine Reservists collected over 5,000 toys and distributed them to needy children in the Los Angeles area. Through time, this program has grown and over 370 million toys have been distributed to over 173 million needy children. Their goal is to deliver a message of hope, through a new toy at Christmas, to needy youngsters so they will grow into productive, responsible, patriotic citizens and community leaders. Throughout the months of October, November and December toy drives are held to insure that children everywhere will receive a package on Christmas morning. Drop-off points are available throughout the country, making it easy to donate to those in need. For more information, about local drop-off locations, visit them online: West Palm Beach, Miami-Dade County and Broward, and Martin County.

In addition, many events are being held to collect more gifts. What a great reason to enjoy a night out!

Toys For Tots at Blue Martini in Fort Lauderdale: Bring a toy on any Tuesday in December and you will receive a complimentary cocktail. They are also hosting a celebration party on Sunday, December 14th from 3 – 7:00 pm.
Free Mojitos at Ola: Bring in an unwrapped Toy For Tots (min. $20 value) and receive a complimentary mojito or holiday cocktail. This offer is valid from Mon, December 9th – Wed, December 24th.

Photo Credit: mysza831 @ flickr

Post from: The South Florida Traveler

The South Florida Traveler » charity

Bidding for Charity

Make a Child’s Dreams Come True this Holiday Season