"12 Missions in '12"

I started this blog as a way to spread the word about local Buffalo businesses, people and organizations. I've been really excited and impressed by the number of visitors to the site, and the comments I've received from people who have read the blog. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read the entries, share them with your friends and spread the word. I look forward to continuing to promote the area in 2012.

With 2011 almost behind us, I've been planning away on what I can do in 2012 to make a difference in Buffalo. I've come up with the tagline of "12 Missions in '12".

The plan:

Every month plan or participate in some sort of fundraiser for 12 different not-for-profit organizations in the Buffalo area.

The organizations:
Many of them have already been chosen, but if you would like to be considered for a fundraiser, please contact me at ksondel@hotmail.com. My day job is part fundraiser, part public relations so I would be happy to figure out an event for your organization!

The goal:

I'm not really sure how to set a goal. Some months I'll be collecting items from organizations "wish lists" and other months collecting monetary donations. I'll also be volunteering my time at organizations. I can't really put a number on it, but let's say that by the end of the year it is something equivalent to around $12,000 (to keep with the "12" theme). It's a lofty goal, but I'm looking to make a difference this year.

January 2012:

The organization I have chosen for January is: Gerard Place. I will be collecting items from their wish list.

To kick this off, I am going to be offering a "Lose it in '12" weight loss contest for the students of Bodyshaping By Sandy (the fitness company I work for). To enter they just need to bring in items on the wish list, and they will be entered in a chance to win some great prizes. For students of Bodyshaping By Sandy, the contest will run for 10 weeks, and the students who lose the most weight (percentage wise) will win great prizes. It's a win-win. You help a local organization out, and you find the motivation and inspiration to lose some weight to start 2012 off right.

If you are interested in donating an item or two on their wishlist, please contact me at 716-868-7010 or via e-mail at ksondel@hotmail.com. I'm willing to come pick the items up at your house. I am hoping to collect at least 100 items in total for Gerard Place and will need the support of my readers to get me there. Anyone who donates an item (or makes a monetary donation that we can use to purchase items) will be entered in a drawing for a $20 gift card to Spot Coffee.

Here is the wish list for Gerard Place:

Furniture (great need for couches, chairs, dining sets)
TV’s
Vacuums
Microwaves
Baby Cribs
Garbage cans (small for kitchen)
Brooms
Mops
Towels
House hold cleaners
Household decorations
Diapers (larger sizes)
Gift cards
School supplies
First aid kits
Personal hygiene products
Toilet paper
Paper towels
Shampoo/conditioner
Soap
Laundry detergent

Here's to making 2012 a year to remember for many of the organizations in Buffalo who do such good for our community!!