Turn on the television and take a look at the religious strife in the Middle East, and it’s very easy to conclude that Christians, Jews and Muslims will never be able to peacefully co-exist. Many believe this inability stems from fundamental differences that can never be reconciled; however, there are a few enlightened souls who believe it may simply be from a lack of understanding of the basic principles and beliefs that form the foundation of each religion, and the lack of willingness to want…

Like so many of us, Carolyn Blashek was deeply moved by the tragedy of September 11thand was determined to do something. What makes Carolyn so special is that she actually tried to enlist in the military, an act considered quite brave on its own merits but even greater in Carolyn’s case since it meant leaving behind a son and daughter not even in high school. Although at 46 she was above the age limit set for active duty, Carolyn was not deterred, and instead volunteered at the Los Angeles airport…

Everyone has been feeling the pinch in this difficult economy, including the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center, a 100-acre sanctuary located along the north Branch of the Rouge River in Troy, Michigan. When budget cuts forced the City of Troy Michigan to cut funding for maintenance of the trails and main building in May 2011, one of the local citizens decided that this nature preserve was too important to lose, and so John Ragan turned what should have been a quiet retirement into a quest to raise money…

Mom will always hold a special place in your heart So, when it comes to expressing love and gratitude on Mother’s Day, many of us turn to a traditional gift or dinner, which is nice, but not at all unique. How about doing something extra this year, that captures the special relationship we have with the woman who gave so much of herself for us – something like a written tribute! You don’t need to be an experienced or accomplished writer, just someone with a fond memory or unexpressed feelings…

For those of us who like to believe that people are basically good and enjoy helping their fellow man, an organization like We’ve Got Time to Help will definitely re-enforce our optimistic view of human nature. What started out as a dismal situation when the economic downtown left Seth Reams unemployed and nothing but free time on his hands, soon turned into something positive when girlfriend Michelle King, suggested Seth volunteer and give something back to their community. After posting an ad…

“You can help people who are homeless in lots of ways. You can share what you have by donating food, clothing and some of your money, but mostly what you can do is be nice to them. If they are cold, share your mitts. If they are sad, say “Hi” to them and give them a hug. If they are hungry, lend them a sandwich – and just love them like family. They need that most of all”                                                                …

Bette Midler might be known for her distinctive curly hair, powerful voice and sharp, exuberant wit, but there is another side to her that some people may not fully recognize, and I venture to say has a far greater impact. Since the 1960s, the glamorous singer, actress and comedian has brought her style and charm to the silver screen and to the recording studio, starring in movies such as “Beaches” and producing albums including “Broken Blossom.” Born in Hawaii, Midler moved…

I know that “Buying American” is a good idea, so Randy Erwin’s Buy American Challenge blog strikes a chord with me. In 2010, Artful Vision launched as a creative alternative in product fundraising. The twist is that the products offered are created by American artists, crafters, musicians and authors. Artists who live and work in the U.S. want to make a difference. On Artful Vision they do that by donating 20% of every purchase to a participating non-profit of the customer’s choice. Even…

Rocker Jon Bon Jovi and his wife, Dorothea Hurley, are truly masters of the art of making a difference!   The duo recently opened an experimental community restaurant called the Soul Kitchen. Located in Red Bank, New Jersey, the Soul Kitchen serves quality food to anyone who walks through its doors – regardless of their ability to pay. Diners who have the cash can leave a donation on the table when they have finished their meal (envelopes are on the tables); and those who cannot pay are encouraged…