How easy is this? You can touch the lives of thousands of children across the world without ever leaving the relative comfort and luxury of your own home by simply using this page to donate. While we complain about the rising price of gas and groceries, many countries across the world are losing the struggle to simply get rice to starving children. This doesn't minimize our own problems, but the way in which we view our misfortunes should be reevaluated. No matter who we are, no matter where we are, there is someone worse off than we are. It is our inherent responsibility as human beings to overcome our selfish instincts and share with those in need.

UNICEF provides lifesaving nutrition, clean water, education, protection and emergency response saving more young lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. Between mindless war and devastating natural disasters, that aid is needed now more than ever. Those of you who are like me will be satisfied to know that this is not a religious organization, so the only morals and ethics involved are your own.

Please join in my efforts to raise funds for UNICEF by making a donation today!

Charitable Choices

Those of you who've known me for some time might remember that I used to pick one or two charities a year and do fundraising for them. However, there are so many charities out there that it eventually became overwhelming and frustrating just picking one. Eventually my donations became more of a private matter and less about encouraging others to join me in my efforts. A few days ago I asked Lori to find me a dependable charity trying to help the people in Myanmar and China without shoving religion down their throats. She gave me the link to UNICEF. Created by the United Nations, it is truly an organization for the people, by the people. I think I've finally found a charity I can stick with year after year.

From DailyOM.com

In the great symphony of life, we all have important parts to play. While some people are best suited to be conductors or soloists, their contributions would be diminished considerably without the individual musicians that lend their artistry to the fullness of an orchestra. The magical accents of the percussion section might sound random and out of place without the music they accompany. But any one member of an orchestra, doing less than their best at their particular part, can destroy the harmony of the whole piece, such is their importance. So although we may not receive the same amount or quality of attention as another, all of our contributions are valuable and integral to the success of the whole.