Make Social Change A Reality

We talk about working to make social change a reality, but where does one start? First, there is the light-bulb moment. The time when one realizes today is the day, now is the time to make a difference. The next step is often harder – getting started. Where does one begin? How do you decide which organization to work with? I’ve developed a short list of organizations that should kick start your research into volunteer work. And if you have any other ideas, or suggestions, please add them in the comments! HandsOn Network If you live in New York City , you know them as New York Cares . But did you know that there are actually 250+ affiliates of the HandsOn Network across the U.S. and 11 international locations? Their structure is based on an online model. You must first attend an orientation session in person. Then, you are eligible to volunteer during the day, evenings, or on weekends for organizations serving children, animals, the environment or ad...

*This post was written in collaboration with over 7,500 other blogs from 140 countries for Blog Action Day 2009 . The Pew Center for Global Climate Change is an invaluable resource for information on how society has effected the environment and how changes in the environment are affecting society. Their purpose is to “ … bring [sic] together business leaders, policy makers, scientists, and other experts to bring a new approach to a complex and often controversial issue. Our approach is based on sound science, straight talk, and a belief that we can work together to protect the climate while sustaining economic growth. ” The website is organized to educate and empower both professionals and private citizens. My favorite feature is Tips on Curbing Your Personal Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions . Here are some ways you can shrink your carbon footprint, and do your part to protect the environment, without increasing your expenses … At Home: • Lower your thermostat 2° in winter and raise ...

The Center for America Progress released their findings for September 2009 on Tuesday. Part of a list of signs that America’s economy is still struggling was this highlight… “The average length of unemployment in September 2009 was 26.2 weeks, the median length of unemployment was 17.3 weeks, and 35.6 % of the unemployed were out of a job for 27 weeks or more. All of these indicators are at their highest level since 1948.” Media outlets are reporting with more and more frequency the difficulties the long-term laid off are having in securing employment. The Wall Street Journal’s online career section regularly featured an article back in June titled, “ Only the Employed Need Apply ”. It seems, not only are there fewer jobs available, but the unemployed are being passed over for theoretically more desirable candidates - those who are employed. The question becomes … with so many obstacles before them … Is there any good news for the long-term unemployed? Yes, there is . #1 Unemploy...

On this day two years ago, Make Social Change A Reality was born . Yay , Happy Birthday to us! Last year, we celebrated our first birthday by declaring October 8 th as a day of recognition for all who make a difference . This year we'd like to invite you to share your story in creating a better world. What have you done to make a difference in 2009? What are your goals for change in 2010? Why do you do what you do? How are you going to enlist the support of others to make social change a reality in your lifetime? We look forward to hearing from all change agents regardless of issue area. Please share your stories in the comments! This post was written by Chanelle Carver, creator of this blog and founder of the Literacy 'n' Poverty Project.