High Five: Ways to Give Back this Fourth of July
June 27, 2010The fourth of July might just be one of the biggest birthday bashes on earth, celebrating our country’s independence in 1776. So this Independence Day, give the U.S.A. a gift by giving back!
1. Donate or shop at Old Navy: This Independence Day, over 1,000 Old Navy stores across the country will host a donation drive to collect items needed by servicemen and women in Iraq and Afghanistan. The store is specifically looking for donations of underwear, undershirts, t-shirts, socks, sunglasses, lip balm, foot powder, and flip flops. In case you forget any of these items, the store will have a “Troop Essentials” section where items under $10 will be available to encourage shoppers to donate. And customers who donate can look forward to a 10% discount off their entire purchase that day! In the spirit of TOMS shoes, Old Navy will also be holding a “Buy One, Send One” campaign where they will send one of their famous flag tees or pairs of flip flops to troops overseas for every one you buy. No longer does shopping have to be a guilty pleasure!
2. Send letters to soldiers: There are multiple websites dedicated to helping grateful citizens show their thanks to American soldiers through old-fashioned snail mail and care packages. For some soldiers who do not have contact with their families, this might be their only connection to home. If you’re feeling especially philanthropic, send them a care package that may include American amenities they can’t find overseas. Even a simple thank-you note may mean the world to someone. Organizations like Any Soldier, Letters to Soldiers, and A Million Thanks offer helpful instructions and suggestions for sending letters and packages. And remember, any day is an opportunity to thank a solider, not just the fourth of July!
3. Help the Gulf: What could be more patriotic than helping your country in a crisis? The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has changed the lives of Americans across the country, especially those in the Gulf region. And while many people want to help, sometimes they don’t know where to start. If you live near the Gulf, consider volunteering with legitimate organizations that provide needed training to volunteers, like Louisiana Gulf Response, the National Audubon Society, Oiled Wildlife Care Network, and the Sierra Club. Even if you live thousands of miles from the Gulf, you can still have a major impact by financially supporting the cleanup efforts. Check out the National Audubon Society, the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the National Wildlife Federation (or text “NWF” to 20222 to donate $10), the Nature Conservancy (or text “coast” to 50555 to donate $10), and United Way (or text “united” to 50555 to donate $10). Finally, use your voice to stand against more offshore drilling. You can write to elected officials or even simply spread awareness through social media tools like Facebook and Twitter. Signing petitions, like those from Oceana, the Sierra Club, and Greenpeace, is also way to stand together with millions of other Americans against future disasters.
4. Attend or plan a philanthropic event: Independence Day means barbecues, fireworks, and celebrating our country’s rich history. But one of its staples is also a spirit of charity. Look around your hometown for opportunities to donate and have fun at the same time! Parades, fireworks shows, and pancake breakfasts often offer the opportunity to donate to a deserving local cause. Or if you can’t find anything in your area, consider hosting your own event. It could be as simple as barbecuing in your backyard and asking each guest to donate $5 to the charity of your choice. In this way, you can combine two of this holiday’s major aspects: fun and philanthropy!
5. Enjoy yourself!: Sometimes, one of the best ways to give back is taking time for yourself. Sleep in, barbecue, spend time with loved ones, and watch fireworks. Celebrate the freedom we have in the United States and the blessings in your own life. So bake cookies for a veteran, go on a family hike, or enjoy a cheesy parade in your local town. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself, love your family and friends, and celebrate your country.


















I confess. I have a serious crush on spring. A minute past midnight December 21, when the long dark nights begin to shrink, I start getting tingles. And when the first daffodils begin to bloom and I can fill all the vases I can put my hands on with their cheerful sunny color, spring fever hits in full force.


















