How Do I Speak Up Against Poverty?
Being new to Europe and launching a new blog, I’ve thought a lot about Blog Action Day. This year’s issue is poverty. I want to be involved, and simply being aware of this year’s issue and telling you to be aware doesn’t feel like enough. What should I do?
My new home is a relatively poor city. Berlin has an unemployment rate of 13.3% (Sept. 2008) and a debt measured in the billions (63 billion in 2006). Mayor Wowereit said, “Berlin is poor but sexy” (Berlin ist arm, aber sexy).
October 23rd, 2008 at 4:04 am
Donate not just money or goods but also your time and talents.
I’ve done various activiites — before this d*mn house took over my life — including volunteering for a literacy program, spending time both working in and collecting for a food pantry, helping raise money for an animal rescue group, and every year at work (this year included) I help lead the charge to brighten the holidays for families and seniors in need.
The only thing I ever ask of the families … pay it forward. If you’re ever in a position to share or volunteer, DO IT. And, TEACH YOUR KIDS TO DO THE SAME.
If these requests work even a few times, the world is a better place for it.