Let’s face it, we are in a financial pickle.   The stock market, the auto industry and their $34 billion dollar (yes, billion) bailout request, foreclosures, unemployment…what a mess.

When times are tough economically, people turn to their local charities and churches to help.  Unfortunately, their resources are stretched and relief doesn’t look to be coming any time soon.

Wow, I sure know how to bum people out!  Alas, my point is not to highlight the trouble but to remind you all that now is a great time to do what you’ve been saying you want to do for years now.

Turn away from the shiny things at the mall, the free-shipping deals on the Internet  and the early bird sale at Wal-Mart and focus instead on the joy of giving.  Money.  To someone in need.

Donate food to the Marin Community Food Bank.  Adopt a family through the Ritter House or the Marin Community Foundation, drop a check to the Marin Abused Women’s Services or the Marin Humane Society.

There are some worthy local charities that would love to receive a donation this year.  Whether it be large or small.   Below are some websites of local charities, that I believe in- just to give you a head start.  Feel free to email me your favorite charities to be included in a later list.

Marin Community Food Bank – www.marinfoodbank.org

Marin Community Foundation – www.marincf.org

Ritter House – www.rittercenter.org

Marin Abused Women’s Services – www.maws.org

Marin Humane Society – www.marinhumansesociety.org

You can also contact your local church to find out what programs they have this holiday season.

So remember your fellow man (and woman, and animal) this holiday season.  And when you see the Salvation Army ringing that bell, drop a buck in the bucket.  Maybe even a fiver.

Run strong and remember to have fun.

Keli

Contact me at keli.honsberger@gmail.com