Volunteering should not be a lost art
Recently in the Sentinel, there have been several articles asking for donations for various causes: an osteosarcoma patient, the Civil Air Patrol, Operation Support Our Troops, to name a few. With rising taxes and a state fiscal crisis, people say they barely have enough money to make ends meet, while demands for help from the less fortunate increase.

However, there are humanitarian donations we can make to help our fellow man besides money.

As Brian Brown said recently in an article about his daughter, Caiti, who is afflicted with osteosarcoma, if residents cannot donate, then they should pass along the information to others who can.

There are many other ways to help.

Instead of going out to dinner one night, volunteer for Meals on Wheels. Instead of buying a new pair of shoes, go through your closet and see what unused items you can donate to a thrift shop. Instead of going to the movies with friends one night, visit a local senior center and play cards or share stories.

The satisfaction of doing something of benefit will taste better than any restaurant meal, will feel better than any new clothing item and will be more entertaining than any recent release.

You can even make a difference while spring cleaning. Search your attics, basements and garages for items you find useless, but that someone else may need. One man's junk is another man's treasure. Instead of walking to the garbage pail, drive some of those items to a women's shelter or a charity collection center.

Or, join one of the walks for multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, the March of Dimes or any other worthy cause. Become part of a team to increase fundraising opportunities, or simply volunteer at an event.

And let's not forget about supporting our local volunteer fire companies, first aid squads, food banks, homeless shelters and hospitals. If you can't donate something tangible, the next best gift is the gift of time.

Whatever you choose to do, do it now and do it often. You'll be a better person for it, and the world will be a better place.

Always research an organization first to make sure it is legitimate. Then, open your checkbook - and your heart - and try to save the world, even if just a little bit at a time.