12/19/11

The next time you're invited to a potluck party, volunteer to bring reusable dishes and utensils for everyone instead of disposable plates and plastic forks and spoons. At the end of the party, you can either wash them at the house or box them up and use your dishwasher at home (which is the most energy- and water-efficient way to wash dishes). Everyone will feel better in knowing the party didn't generate trash bags full of disposable waste. Cheers!

12/18/11

The Department of Social Services, as well as local foster care agencies, will appreciate a donation of lightly used luggage that can be given to children who do not have a suitcase in which to carry their belongings. Even if you don't have gently used luggage, look for it when it may be on sale, like during the holiday season. December and January are good months to find new suitcases at their lowest prices because stores often discount old models to make room for newer ones. Buy a few pieces and donate them to help a child in need.

12/17/11

Your old DVDs can be given a new life through the nonprofit organization DVDs for Vets. The organization will accept new and used DVDs of the latest Hollywood hits to share with veterans who have limited mobility, so they have a chance to see movies. You can find out how to donate your DVDs by visiting the organization's website at dvds4vets.org.