Well, July 4th rolled ‘round again, with the always popular displays of fireworks in various locations. That kind we all enjoy. The week before brought a different kind of “fireworks” to social media that were a lot less enjoyable. Sometimes current events bring out the best in people, sometimes just the opposite, and sometimes a little of both.
But moving past that now (hopefully), maybe we should all focus on the things we can do to make a positive difference in our communities. There are a number of charitable and service organizations in the area that accomplish a lot but need the help of caring individuals as volunteers or supporters.
Community Partnership for Homeless is based in Homestead and always appreciates both volunteers and donations. These days, even some formerly middle class families are homeless after job cutbacks. Reach this group through its website at www.chapmanpartnership.org/.
The SEED Foundation works in a number of ways to help students in the area and needs volunteers. Reach them via their website at www.seedfoundation.com/index.php/get-involved/volunteer.
SCORE, the Service Core Of Retired Executives, assists small businesses with some great mentoring from experienced leaders in the field of business and is looking for volunteers. Connect with them here: miamidade.score.org/volunteer.
Camillus House has been providing humanitarian services to the indigent and homeless populations of Miami-Dade County, Florida for more than a half-century, and can use volunteers and donations. Reach them via their website at www.camillus.org/.
Rotary International is an established service organization that has many programs geared to help those who need it in the community. The Rotary Club of Perrine – Cutler Ridge/Palmetto Bay can be reached via their website at: pcrpbrotary.com/.
Speaking of charitable events, the local, non-profit organization, Florida Introduces Physical Activity and Nutrition to Youth (FLIPANY), is bringing back its annual Chefs Up Front dinners. The event in Miami will be held at the luxurious Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, with internationally renowned chefs preparing a customized five-course signature meal for groups of ten at their own table. The evening is hosted by Ryan Phillips, morning meteorologist at NBC6 and long-time FLIPANY supporter, and benefits Cooking Matters™, a program that teaches children and their families how to make healthy food choices, cook healthy meals and shop for nutritious foods on a budget.
Ticket sales just began July 1, with an early bird rate of $199 until July 15. On July 16th, tickets sales will be $250 a person. The dinner takes place on Friday, September 18, which will be here before you know it. For information about FLIPANY or to purchase tickets visit www.FLIPANY.org.
Feelin’ the heat? The summer heat promises to be a little worse than usual, so here are some helpful tips to survive it, from the folks at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CCD): www.cdc.gov/features/extremeheat/. Stay cool, everyone!
Thought of the Day:
Men have become the tools of their tools.
— Henry David Thoreau
Gary Alan Ruse contributed to this column.
Got any tips? Contact me at 305-669- 7355, ext. 249, or send emails to Michael@communitynewspapers.com.
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