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October 2009 That Reminds Me
Doing good
 by Emily Schilling
Editor
This past month, volunteerism and making a difference have really resonated with me. With each entry we received for Electric Consumer’s Youth Power and Hope Awards, I was inspired by kids who are helping others. We’re looking forward to introducing you to the winners our youth community service contest in the December issue, and we encourage our youth to continue making a difference in their communities.
Volunteerism not only helps others; there’s no greater feeling than knowing you’ve done a good deed. On Sept. 11, I participated in a national Day of Service with fellow members of the Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals (WiNUP). Throughout the country, women in the utility industry donated time and resources to various community service projects. The Indiana chapter has been a long-time supporter of the Ronald McDonald House of Indiana. So, our members assisted the house by donating food, cleaning supplies, books and 300 toiletry packets assembled from collected hotel soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions and assorted other personal care items.
Several other chapters provided items for their local Ronald McDonald Houses; one chapter prepared a meal for its local house’s residents. Other groups collected food and money for food pantries, donated school supplies and money to facilities for battered women and children, helped schools impacted by severe flooding, volunteered at a senior citizens’ home, and collected books to help children develop early reading skills. Each unique volunteer effort corresponded to each area’s unique needs.
Being a part of a national effort like this through an organization with which I’ve been active for almost 20 years was immensely gratifying. As our members unloaded a trunkload of donations, I felt proud that our WiNUP sisters were conducting similar goodwill projects at the same time. That sense of unity was powerful!
On Oct. 24, USA Weekend, a magazine included in Sunday newspapers throughout the country, is sponsoring “Make a Difference Day.” The project encourages folks to help others on that day — either collectively or individually. USA Weekend is offering awards to encourage participation in “Make a Difference Day,” but I believe simply being a part of an event like this — during which so many positive things occur simultaneously — is reward enough.
Written By: eceditor
Date Posted: 9/30/2009
Number of Views: 246
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