Favorite Organizations 2010

I say it all the time. "It's easy to be a good sport when you're winning!" I don't know who said it first, but I apply it to life, not just sports, all the time. For instance, as I was putting this post together, inspired by Oprah's Favorite Things, I saw an interview with one of the richest and most generous people in the world. He was asked if he "considered himself a philanthropist," and he replied, "it's easy to give when you're wealthy!" (aha now you make the connection), "the real philanthropists are the people who must sacrifice in order to give." Cool, right? So, here is my list of favorite opportunities for philanthropy...in case you need some ideas!

INTERNATIONAL: Kiva.org , a favorite of mine for a few years, made Oprah's favorite things list this year. This group will loan your money to a small business person who has requested help. You can loan as little as $25. When the loan is repaid, you are repaid! My original donation has been re-loaned many, many times. Check this out with your kids...this is a great one!!

LOCAL: Danbury Grassroots Tennis is a local organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for selected young people in Danbury, through the game of tennis and educational support. Participating in sports, shaped and continues to shape, how I live my life.

GIFT: If you are looking for a unique gift, check out Peace Tags . They create military style dog tags to spread messages of PEACE and COMPASSION, and distribute the profits among organizations that do the same.