New York Cares

New York City can be a caring, giving place.

Surprised by that comment?   We understand if you are.

Recently, we joined a volunteer network called New York Cares, established in 1987.  The network, which operates with amazing efficiency, pairs volunteers with community organizations to complete projects with positive impact on people, places and even animals in NYC.

We learned about New York Cares from our friend Suzanne and also from a friendly Starbucks patron sitting next to us one recent day.  So, we went to an orientation session and learned there are thousands upon thousands of volunteers and projects.  Whatever your interest might be, you can find a worthwhile project and make a contribution.

One project that Greg will select is dog-walking in a sketchy neighborhood across the river.  The dogs are rescue dogs awaiting adoption, not destruction.  The interesting fact is none are the small, cute dogs seen throughout the city.  These dogs are the big ones, like pit bulls and rottweilers.  Who would abandon a cute little dog?  Right?  When asked about the wisdom of walking around a sketchy neighborhood, Greg said not to worry. "I'll be well protected."  More to come.

Our first volunteer project was straight out of the film Miracle on 34th Street.

We reviewed gift requests and Dear Santa letters from low- and no-income households throughout the city--letters from children (including pre-K and special ed) and also from seniors.  Our task was to make a list and check it twice.  We also had to consider who was naughty and nice.  Everyone was clearly in the nice category, except for one youngster who asked for the book Fifty Shades of Grey.  "For his mother."  He is getting a soccer ball instead.

All of the letters were touching.  Many asked for a gift for a sibling or cousin or for a modest gift to enjoy with others.  The project will result in more than 40,000 gifts being delivered.  We are proud to be a part of it.

New York City can be a caring, giving place.