Holidailies Charity Project: the feedback

Last week, Chip and I asked Holidailies participants to give us their feedback on what they'd like (or not like) to see in a potential Holidailies Charity Project. A number of people wrote some great entries, which I thought I'd share with you. Nearly all the organizations you all recommended were interesting and meaningful to me in some way -- I'd love to be able to pull together the cash to donate to all of them, myself.

First of all, you've probably read Chip's entry, which was the original petition for feedback ... but you might have missed the comments. Chip mentioned literacy-related organizations, and we received a number of related suggestions.

Donors Choose was one charity suggested by multiple online writers -- teachers who need materials for disadvantaged students ask for funding for specific projects, and you pick the project where your money will go. Megan from Elbowglitter explained more how the Donors Choose program works. Mel at Catchy Name Needed also likes the organization.

LB at Visible Woman introduced us to a group that promotes children's writing, Badgerdog Literary Publishing (right here in Austin, too).

Miriam Nadel at Areas of Unrest suggests two literacy-related groups: an organization in her area called The Book Thing, and the nationwide group The Libri Foundation.

Another literacy project called First Book was recommended by Erin over at well.notes.

Another book-related project: TigerWillow of I Am This Woman is supporting World Care's books and supplies program.

Heifer International was a popular suggestion from Holidailies members. Katie mentioned that it's a great organization for teaching your kids about charity. Reb at Chewbecca.com also likes the organization, and provides some related music for your entertainment.

Ruth at Mary and Bob's Journal suggested we pick Big Brothers Big Sisters, in an entry that talks about her own rewarding experiences as a Big Sister. She followed up the next day with another entry about her work with a local event called Angel Store.

Meloukhia at This Ain't Livin' offers a number of possible charities that help various groups of people.

Elizabeth at Another Random Memory not only agreed with the Donors Choose idea, she also suggested some groups that send care packages and gear to U.S. soldiers.

Ladyloo reminds us about the good things that the Salvation Army does.

Tasukitty recommends any animal shelter-related charitable groups, particular pit bull rescues. Oldy at Half Old Girl pleads for helping a pet shelter and adoption program (I think she'd like to see us all adopt cats).

Stacey at Ruined by Books tells us about the two groups for which she volunteers: Planned Parenthood and a needle exchange program.

Over at Music and Cats, Kimberley talks about her lunch at a restaurant run by FareStart, which provides homeless people with commercial culinary training.

Although Peasantwench at Musings of a Wench has already made her charity donations for the year, she wanted to tell us about Agape Hospice.

Not everyone wrote in support of the Holidailies Charity Project -- we didn't expect 100 percent support, of course. We were hoping for more constructive and less hurtful criticism than this, but we appreciate all feedback. We've tried to stress that the project is optional, and if it's something that doesn't interest you, feel free to ignore any and all posts about it.

If I missed any entries or comments related to suggestions for the Holidailies Charity Project, please let me know in the comments of this entry. Chip and I are reviewing all your suggestions and should have a proposal to share in a few days.

Posted at December 11, 2007 09:25 PM