Each Friday, the another jennifer blog shares stories of those who incorporate philanthropy into their everyday lives – personally and professionally – in a creative and unique way. If you have a story you’d like to share, please contact Jennifer.
When I started this Philanthropy Friday series back in October of 2011, I didn’t know where it was going to lead me. I was exploring ways to give more in my life.
Turns out, I’m not the only one inspired by stories about how people incorporate philanthropy into their lives.
Since I started writing the series, I’ve connected with some amazing people. People who are passionate about what they do and how they give back. They’ve inspired me to perform spontaneous acts of kindness and to start my own giving pledge.
A short time ago, I received a message via Twitter from Kristin at Talk About Giving, whose blog inspired my very first Philanthropy Friday post. She sent me a link to the GOOD Maker Challenge where you could win $1,500 to “do good with your blog.” Kristin noted that she thought of me and my blog when she saw it.
See? Amazing people.
So, I submitted my “project” on GOOD. And now it’s up for vote.
My problem is that I’m not that great at asking people to vote for me. But since $1,000 will go to an organization that I care very much for, Crossroads, I want to make sure I put in a good effort.
Crossroads provides gender-responsive addiction and behavioral health treatment services in a safe and respectful environment so individuals and families can lead healthy lives. I’ve worked closely with the senior staff and board since 2006. They are a well-run nonprofit that helps women and men remember who they wanted to be. In my work with them, I’ve had people thank me for being a part of Crossroads because the organization saved their lives. It doesn’t get more powerful than that.
As for the extra $500, I’m thinking of starting a bloggers giving circle. I’m not sure how to do this yet, but I will figure it out. I have enough nonprofit / fundraising experience to start one. Would you join me?

So, here’s the question, will you please vote for another jennifer as a Blogger for GOOD? Visit my project page and click “Vote for this Idea” to vote for me!

Please use either Firefox or Chrome browsers (or so suggests GOOD). If you need to register, please remember to validate your email address (you’ll receive instructions after you vote) so your vote gets counted. You’ll see a notification at the top of the screen once your vote has been successfully counted. If you have any issues, contact maker@goodinc.com.
That’s it. That’s all you have to do to make a difference today. Consider it a mitzvah.
Oh, and would you mind sharing this post with others and asking them to vote? That would be pretty awesome too.
And, seriously, even if I don’t win this contest, who is interested in starting a bloggers giving circle with me?