Even the Mayor Volunteers

There is more riding on the World Series then just the title. The two opposing mayors have made a bet where everyone comes out a winner. Mayor Bloomberg from New York and Mayor Nutter from Philadelphia have agreed that the mayor of the loosing city’s team will travel to the winner’s city to do a volunteer project. We applaud their commitment to service and there ability to combine it with something they love- sports.

To read more check out:
http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/24411/

Met Council's Nominated for an Award - and we need your help!

Please help my nonprofit, Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, win the Jewish Choice Awards and raise awareness of all the amazing work that we do. From now until October 31st, please log on to www.greatnonprofits.org to write a review about Met Council. The organization that has the most reviews by October 31st will win the Jewish Choice Awards. Thanks in advance for your support! Here is the direct link to write a review about Met Council: http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/write/1425401.

Volunteer with the Stars

Are you looking for more incentive to volunteer your time to a good cause? Stars from televisions shows such as Desperate Housewives, Heroes, and General Hospital are teaming up to revamp interest in volunteering among viewers by setting a good example. If this isn’t enough reason, tune into the “Voluntary Viewing Marathon” airing Saturday, October 24th from 8AM-3PM and catch episodes that feature volunteer themes on THE O.C., ONE TREE HILL, BEVERLY HILLS 90210, and more.

If you are inspired by this star-studded initiative, please contact Kelley Baldwin at (212)453-9675 or kbaldwin@metcouncil.org to get involved with Met Council’s own volunteer activities.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/aon/ / CC BY 2.0

Teens Volunteering by Evelyn ( a Met Council volunteer)

The Importance of Volunteer Work for Teens

As teenagers approach fast towards reaching their high school goals and future plans, it is important to present to them the importance of volunteering and the positive affects of doing so. Even though external stimuli such as internet and video games play a big role why teens may not be as proactive about volunteering, parents can encourage their teens by showing them the positive effects of volunteering and how it can enrich their lives.

My first experience as a volunteer was a powerful and unforgettable one. I originally started out in high school by getting involved with the Environmental Club and going into the city to plant trees to spread the word about the importance of trees and the environment. As time went on, I realized that I was gaining so much more than just community hours, but rather a strong sense of self and respect for the work that other people dedicate themselves to such as the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty (Met Council).

What compelled me the most about Met Council, was that it dedicates itself towards helping all kinds of people in need from the young to the elder with fervor and success. Providing meals for the hungry, food drives, assisting the elderly, counseling those in need, helping people find jobs, giving out furniture, helping people in crisis and so much more. This is the perfect opportunity for any teen or adult to get involved in various areas of volunteering that the organization has to offer. This in turn, gives teens a sense of responsibility, the opportunity to give back to the community, meet new people, and helps them develop a frame of character that will benefit their professional careers as well!

10 Reasons to volunteer by a volunteer

10 Reasons Why You Should Volunteer

This post was contributed by Donna Scott, a Met Council volunteer.

1. There are many different volunteer opportunities to suit everyone. You can volunteer your time to soup kitchens, animal shelters, food and clothing drives, or even become part of a team to build homes for those in need.2. It’ll make use of your free time. If you find yourself at home and bored with nothing to do, volunteering will make productive use of your free time. Instead of watching old reruns on the television, you can be out doing something that will help yourself and help others.3. It looks good on your resume. Those wanting to get into college can boost their chances of acceptance when they volunteer regularly. Universities look for students with dedication, motivation, and beliefs, and volunteer activity provides an indicator of those traits.4. It is a great way to become part of the community. Your community will take care of you as long as you take care of it. When you volunteer, you will come into contact with people who are striving to make your town better for everyone, and you will become part of the force that will help change things for the better.5. It is a great way to meet people. When you volunteer at a place that interests you, you will meet others who share that interest. Volunteering is casual and hands-on, so those who give their time to the cause will inevitably form a strong bond.6. You will become more cultured. Out of your own social circle, you will meet those who are the benefactors of your time and work. It will make you wiser and more compassionate towards the less fortunate.7. You will feel good afterwards. No matter how trying and boring you may find volunteering, you will inevitably feel good for donating your time and effort afterwards. Now imagine if you volunteered at a place you enjoyed. You would feel wonderful while you volunteer and afterwards, too.8. You’ll live longer and healthier. Older people who volunteer live longer lives and are less likely to suffer from heart disease and depression, U.S. News reported. Volunteering will keep you active and social, two things that have been proven to ward off elderly dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
9. It’ll keep your brain sharp. If you are no longer working or going to school, the lack of mental stimuli can lead to forgetfulness or depression. Volunteering will put you back in a work-like setting, allowing you to keep those neurons fit and healthy.10. You will make a difference. Even if you just answer phone calls at a shelter or pass out dinners at a soup kitchen, you will have made a difference to somebody. Remember, good will to all should not only come during Thanksgiving and Christmas. After all, charity, love, and dedication are needed year-round.