Check Please!

I had my first official public function last Friday and that was to present a check to Prink Triangle Services. The Ottawa Bears raised funds by selling 50/50 tickets for PTS during the Mr. Ottawa Bear competition on January 17th so it was our way of giving back to the community and to such a wonderful organization. Thank you Wes and to everyone at Pink Triangle Services. I look forward to working with you this year. (please check out their website at www.pinktriangle.org).
It seems that in these difficult economic times everyone is looking for a little something. Usually in form of cash of check.
There is nothing wrong with that. I'm a beleiver of those who CAN give and those who don't know that there is no shame in taking so long as you give back in some way.
Every company today is cutting back. Every job and function and spending account is being scruitinized. I find that charities and not for profit will suffer at the hands of the current recession. Economist already predict that thousands of not for profit organizations in our community will suffer their demise over tight purse strings.
Then there is the GLBT community. Often you will hear people say: "The gays have money to burn because they have high disposable incomes". Great if you don't have a mortgage, a husband, kids and a dog to feed.
So before you go out on a weekend binge at the pub or restaurants or you just gotta have that triple latte with half whip and chocolate sprinkles on top, be aware that your community does not always have the means to go out and do the same. There are many of us that are not fortunate to have solid employement or the right skills to make it in life.
I'm not saying stop spending. If the economy is going to survive the GLBT community can probably carry it on it's sholders!
Be responsible. Think. Act. Help. If someone asks you to spare a loonie or a toonie for a charity or a donation, give. If you see me selling 50/50 tickets and you know my money always goes to good causes, give.
Give because you can. Give because you want to and if you can't give cash then give your time.
It's not always about the money. Giving back comes in many ways.
I'm always grateful to those who gave to me when I needed it the most. I paid them back and those who didn't want to be paid back, I made sure someone else in need got my check...
A buck really does go a long way.

Until next time,

MOB09