It Is In All of Us: UPDATE!

Hello all :) 

In an effort to continue our work and organize the information we've received over the past few months, we've created the group below where we will be better able to track the people and organizations we're involved with. FB only allows us to do so much. On this platform we can interact more personally, post specific events we are a part of, connect you directly to the source of what you want, need and who/what/where you want to be involved with. We will continue to post updates on our pages but know that the real discussions will be taking place below. Thank you for being a part of this amazing journey in discovering what is in all of us! See you there :)

Even Flickering Candles Give Light in The Darkness.

 Even Flickering Candles Give Light In The Darkness

I woke up multiple times last night with a heavy heart.  I woke with the thought that 27 families are being forced to face torturous reality... over and over and over.  Every second that goes by and every thought that they have now exists in darkness... A darkness they cannot escape from; A reality that they cannot run from; a nightmare they cannot wake from.

To be honest I am having difficulty even finding and writing inspirational words about this tragedy as hopelessness and helplessness seem unavoidable.  BUT it is now when those who can be strong, must.  It is now when those who can "walk" must carry the those who cannot ...  just as we did and continue to do after Hurricane Sandy.

It Is In all Of Us's Mission is to acknowledge and foster Resilience, Empowerment, Respect, Community, and Love.  During this time these ideals may seem more like quivering, languishing candlelight rather then steady, strong beacons of hope and guidance.

But even flickering candles give light in darkness...

So I am writing even though it feels so very insignificant.  Pushing through this hopeless feeling this morning is reminding me of what Empowerment is ...  The insignificant feeling is the sensation that you are powerless against something so BIG.  Empowerment is doing it anyway. 

I am encouraging you all to send love and light to those families.  I am hoping that you will sit down with your loved ones this holiday season and everyday that follows with the experience of gratitude; the kind of gratitude that sparks change in thought and behavior, the kind of gratitude that causes one to be kinder and gentler to another.

I know you will because even when it seems Impossible- It Is In All Of Us ....

xo
Michelle

Things I'm Afraid to Tell You

Sometimes, the ways I dealt with things in the past were not the healthiest.

Today, I am grateful for those experiences because now, as a mother, I have the responsibility (and hope) to be my children's greatest teacher. 

Jess Constable created and published the very first "Things I'm Afraid To Tell You" list on March 29, 2012. 

It's since created a movement around the blogosphere in an effort to remind readers that blogs, are written by real people. 

Real emotions drive those real people to write and guess what? They have fears too. 

Most importantly, as Jess writes herself, "I just want to see what it feels like to really push past my own self-imposed boundaries and share my thoughts that don’t often grace MML."

After spending a day with some amazing women from the Ozanam Shelter, who were attending Enchanted Makeover's "She is Me" event this Summer, I felt even more compelled to share my list. 

After dinner, we were encouraged to take the "I am not ______" challenge. After we filled in the blank,  we took a picture holding up this card, in essence exposing a self-limiting belief. I wrote I am not scared.

Today, making peace with myself once more, honoring my statement by throwing stones at my self designed/built glass ceiling... here I go:

1) I miss my father desperately, fiercely, everyday.

2) I don't know how to take a compliment.

3) I don't forget faces, but I forget people's names way too often.

4) Some mornings, I have to REALLY push myself to get out of bed.

5) Traumatized by watching "Candyman" at a much too early age, I am terrified of looking at mirrors in the dark.

6) While I've made peace with body, my battle with food is still not over.

7) I sometimes envy working moms.

8) That because my life changed in an instant in my 20's, I'm in my 30's and fear planning for the future.

9) I freak out when tough decisions have to be made.

10) I am tired of being scared.

11) I am very homesick.

After my interview for GMA a months weeks ago chatting on FB with Terry Grahl, the founder of Enchanted Makeovers about how vulnerable I felt for 'spilling my guts on national TV,' she wrote back to me saying, "It's all good Vanessa! Shine your light, to set others free." 

I hope that I've done that for someone today as I move forward honoring my authentic self. 

"The List"

UPDATED:  12/4/12

Even more ... CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY!!! :)

There are VOLUNTEER opps in every community! Please see groups in location where you want to donate your time!  :)

Go through it carefully to find what you are looking for ... Hope it helps!

PLEASE ADD - any orgs or corrections I missed to the comments section below and I will be updating this post regularly! Thank you!!!

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Christmas/Holiday

http://www.facebook.com/OperationSandyRelief
http://www.facebook.com/OperationSandyClaus
http://www.facebook.com/pages/NJ-Hurricane-Sandy-Christmas-Giving-Connection/428784863841296
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Sandy-Adopt-a-Family-for-Christmas/262063393917218
http://www.facebook.com/pages/East-Rockaway-Hurricane-Christmas-Toy-Drive/460590717317120
http://www.facebook.com/ChristmasForHurricaneSandyVictims
http://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftsforGerritsen/?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/Santaclauseiscoming2town
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Sandy-Holiday-Toy-Drive/281511811951811?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/OperationSandyChristmas
http://www.facebook.com/SecretSandy
http://www.facebook.com/events/126448734177240/
http://www.facebook.com/HolidayToysForChildrenAffectedByHurricaneSandy
http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1XY8NPRI95GVY/ref=cm_sw_su_w

Thimbles ... They Matter.

 Thimbles ... They Matter

It's about 11:00 am on Saturday 12/1.  My mother just called me practically in tears.  "Its so so cold, I just brought cleaning supplies down to Guyon Rescue but what is that going to do? It feels like I was giving them a thimble when they have to bail out the ocean!" 

This is it - That is the fight -  Right here is the perfect example of where the true battle lies.  IT LIES WITHIN US. 

It is how we perceive the tasks in front of us that will determine success or failure.

My mother, who works at Staten Island University Hospital, who sees some of the most disturbing things on a day to day basis, a women I consider to be one of the strongest people I know was powerfully affected by the reality of the situation, again. (There's that reminding that I talk about us needing) It is okay to need to be reminded of the enormity of the situation or to be reminded that even the "smallest" acts of kindness are important.   The reminders are not wasteful if action comes of them.  So I humbly, graciously, and respectfully remind anyone who might need reminding (including myself):

We must stay strong. 
We must continue to give our thimbles of support. 
Please don't think it's too little or not needed anymore or not enough to bother.

Remember when you give anything (money, food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, time, etc) you are actually giving your thought, your concern, your awareness, your energy ... THESE things are what matter more then anything else! 

Please see "The List" and contact an organization in your area to see what they need and then gather your thimbles of help.   I guarantee it will be needed and appreciated!

Volunteer This weekend

"Many of the groups who once had an abundance of people giving of their time are now struggling to find volunteers."   

So it has been 32 days since Sandy devastated the tri-state area.  Shopping for the holidays has begun, and Christmas decorations have started adorning houses.   Life has returned to normal for so many and we are thankful for that!  Lights have been turned on and gas is available.   The commute has returned to normal ...  well relatively!

Unfortunately so many people have not had their lives return to normal...  So much still needs to be done.  Please consider volunteering this weekend.  Many of the groups who once had an abundance of people giving of their time are now struggling to find volunteers.

Here is a list of wonderful organizations who have not stopped serving their communities!  Please remember to add to the comments any organizations that you know need volunteers... Thank you!!!   

This is a SHORT list of volunteer opps... PLEASE PLEASE see "The List" where you will be able to find many many MANY more opportunities volunteer! 

Many thanks for all who continue to share their time and energy...

"The List" (11/30/12) Groups, Info, Volunteer!

UPDATED:  12/4/12

UPDATED CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY!!! :)

There are VOLUNTEER opps in every community! Please see groups in location where you want to donate your time!  :)

Go through it carefully to find what you are looking for ... Hope it helps!

PLEASE ADD - any orgs or corrections I missed to the comments section below and I will be updating this post regularly! Thank you!!!

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Christmas/Holiday

http://www.facebook.com/pages/NJ-Hurricane-Sandy-Christmas-Giving-Connection/428784863841296
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Sandy-Adopt-a-Family-for-Christmas/262063393917218
http://www.facebook.com/pages/East-Rockaway-Hurricane-Christmas-Toy-Drive/460590717317120
http://www.facebook.com/ChristmasForHurricaneSandyVictims
http://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftsforGerritsen/?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/Santaclauseiscoming2town
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Sandy-Holiday-Toy-Drive/281511811951811?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/OperationSandyChristmas
http://www.facebook.com/SecretSandy
http://www.facebook.com/events/126448734177240/
http://www.facebook.com/HolidayToysForChildrenAffectedByHurricaneSandy
http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1XY8NPRI95GVY/ref=cm_sw_su_w

FundRasing!

Sandy Fundraisers!  

Updated 12/4/12

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Entrepreneurial Think Tank for Moms: http://ettmgoddardholiday.eventbrite.com

We Refuse to Sink!

We Refuse to Sink!

(In response to a "It Is In All Of Us" nomination I received this morning)

Thank you for that beautiful nomination.  I will certainly call you and get the details.

I am so so sorry for what you are going through.  I can't tell you that I fully understand because the reality is ... I don't - I didn't lose my home.  You are going through this, you and your neighbors.  BUT we will be here.  We will be here to bear witness to your struggle; we will be here to support you and help you get your needs met; we will be here to remind the rest of the world that you are going through this; we will be here to acknowledge and foster leadership,  effective community organizing, and of course ... resiliency.  We will help you find the resiliency you need to recover.  We being: "It Is In All Of Us", "Cancel The 2012 NYC Marathon", ALL of the wonderful organizations that have been created,  ALL of the amazing volunteers, organizers, donators, leaders, friends, family, and neighbors ...  I  Promise.  (Btw - I'm the MWISSWIM kind ... that's a "Mean What I say Say What I Mean" kind of person ... ;)

So this is why we created "It Is In all Of Us" Spotlight!  Already there are dozens of nominations for the spotlight and I can't wait to do the first one!!  Remember,  we will be doing a spotlight once a month for as long as we are here so if you or your nomination doesn't get picked this month - keep nominating!  :)

Thank you!  xoxo

It Is In All Of Us SPOTLIGHT!

 It Is In All Of Us - SPOTLIGHT! 

We are searching for groups and/or individuals who exemplify the meaning of "It Is In all Of Us"!! 

One group/individual will be in the spotlight each month! We will create a video and tell the world about the wonderful things they are doing...

Nominees (individual or group) should be demonstrating:
1) Leadership
2) Creativity
3) Strength of character
4) Action

Please comment your thoughts on who should be in the "It Is In All Of Us" spotlight!! Can't wait to hear from you!

Why Are Some Resilient and Others Not?

Good Morning!  I hope you are all having a wonderful Monday  :)

So I saw "Seeds Of Resiliency" last night.  It was moving - sad and happy; devastating and hopeful all at the same time.  This movie wonderfully exhibits how powerful our spirit, our hope, and our perception can be.

Although the movie left me feeling extremely hopeful and powerful it also left me feeling overwhelmed.  For a moment I was a bit consumed with thoughts of those who can't be resilient, those who are swallowed up by despair.  I thought about the perpetrators, those who thrive on the suffering of others or those who are not able to even recognize the suffering of others because they are blinded by their own selfish ways.  How can there be such a dichotomy? 

Then it hit me early this morning - Both have to exist.  Great resiliency can only come out of great hardship.  That is the the definition.  Inherent within resiliency is adversity.  It is not easy to beat off great pain and suffering.  They don't fight fair.  Pain and suffering are sneaky and manipulative.

BUT there will be many who who will beat them off and make their way to resiliency.   It is their presence and example that will give others unconscious permission to do the same.  They will remind us that it is in all of us...

"Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our greatest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, talented, fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing  enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in all of us. As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." Marianne Williamson 

Volunteer This Weekend!!

"Many of the groups who once had an abundance of people giving of their time are now struggling to find volunteers."   

So it has been 32 days since Sandy devastated the tri-state area.  Shopping for the holidays has begun, and Christmas decorations have started adorning houses.   Life has returned to normal for so many and we are thankful for that!  Lights have been turned on and gas is available.   The commute has returned to normal ...  well relatively!

Unfortunately so many people have not had their lives return to normal...  So much still needs to be done.  Please consider volunteering this weekend.  Many of the groups who once had an abundance of people giving of their time are now struggling to find volunteers.

Here is a list of wonderful organizations who have not stopped serving their communities!  Please remember to add to the comments any organizations that you know need volunteers... Thank you!!!   

This is a SHORT list of volunteer opps... PLEASE PLEASE see "The List" where you will be able to find many many MANY more opportunities volunteer! 

Many thanks for all who continue to share their time and energy...


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UPDATED VOLUNTEER LIST BY OCCUPY:

http://interoccupy.net/occupysandy/2012/11/22/sandy-volunteer-update-friday-112312/

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Guyon Rescue

They are looking for volunteers all weekend!  

http://www.facebook.com/guyonrescue2012


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 Rebuild Staten Island

meet at 927 Patterson Ave

http://www.facebook.com/RebuildStatenIsland?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/events/395393630538949/ 



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 We Love SI -  NEED VOLS!!

http://www.facebook.com/WeLoveSI



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Red Hook Initiative

http://rhicenter.org/tag/hurricane-relief/


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NJ Volunteer exchange

http://www.facebook.com/NJVolunteerExchange

Seeds of Resiliency opens in NYC tonight!

"Seeds Of Resiliency" Opens in NYC tonight! 

http://www.ironzeal.com/Seeds-of-Resiliency.php

Resiliency is the ability to recover readily from illness, depression, adversity, or the like.   Do more then survive.  Adapt.  Prevail.  Flourish.  Evolve.   What an incredible trait to have! 

We are all capable of being resilient.  But many don't know that, believing they are helpless and powerless to their situations.  But when we witness what the human spirit can overcome; when we are reminded of our innate power; then we may think differently.  Maybe, just maybe, we will see that that kind of power, that kind of strength, that kind of resiliency is - well,  it is in all of us.

Quad Cinema
34 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011
From November 23 through November 29, 2012
Showtimes: 1:00 2:25 3:50 5:15 6:40 8:05 10:10

Final- Thanksgiving Information!!

Final Thanksgiving information!

If I missed any please add to comments so interested people can see them!!  Thank you!!  

Lower East side Manhattan. We will be feeding hurricane survivors at 1pm Thursday at
El Mesias church
189 Madison Street w Rutgers
New York ny
We still need volunteers to serve and ppl to donate food, turkey, desserts, beverages. The church will open at 10am to prep. Thank you!!!!

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Our Friends Need Help! Our buddies at Rockaway Taco are organizing a major Thanksgiving food distribution and dinner event. They need SIDE DISHES (like stuffing, cranberry sauce, green beans, potatoes) and HOT BOX TRUCKS. If you could help them out email us at rockawayhelp@gmail.com with the subject line TURKEY DAY and we will forward on your info.

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For those of you who are interested in offering some hands on help this Thanksgiving and Black Friday.... Check this out!! These guys have been doing the most amazing work!! So dedicated so organized... an inspiration!

Please Please share!

http://www.facebook.com/events/350156998414590/ 

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This is a great site see the other link for their request list!

 http://www.facebook.com/tablesharing

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/embeddedform?formkey=dHJZU0dBLUJZN3hXTVh1azRjN2JaS3c6MQ 

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Thanksgiving

http://www.facebook.com/events/350156998414590/
http://www.facebook.com/events/384654851615006
http://www.facebook.com/groups/303214223120977/
http://www.facebook.com/tablesharing
http://www.facebook.com/OperationGiveThanks
http://www.facebook.com/OccupyGravesendKitchenSandyRelief
http://www.facebook.com/HurricaneSandyThanksgivingAdoptAFamilyForDinner?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.sandythanksgiving.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/NJ-Hurricane-Sandy-Thanksgiving-Dinner-Connection/428784863841296
http://www.facebook.com/SandyFamilyHolidayDinner
http://www.facebook.com/thanksgivingfooddrivesi?ref=ts&fref=ts

 

NEW JERSEY VOLUNTEER OPPS updated 11/18/12 8:00 am

 New Jersey Volunteer Opps Updated 11/18/12 8:00am

Please try to bring work gloves, work boot, and respirator masks with you!

Thank you!

http://www.jerseycares.org/HOC__Volunteer_Opportunity_Search_Page?p=vct
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NJ Volunteer and Donation Exchange

http://www.facebook.com/NJVolunteerExchange

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AmdYcWCQuSO7dE9HVjZqTDUyc0dhcmhxZk5lcWV0NFE&output=html

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Union Beach Hub @ the Union Hose "Firehouse Grille"
1224 Florence Ave Union Beach, NJ 07735
Updated today 1pm

Details: NEEDS/REQUESTS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Muck-out volunteers - please come with muck-out supplies, if possible (OSHA N95/N92 face-masks, waterproof boots, waterproof work-gloves, hazmat suits (or at the very least heavy-duty work clothes you can throw away; and clean clothes, of course), tarps, garbage bags, crow-bars, headlamps, batteries). Kitchen volunteers - nespecially in morning, to prepare food for regional distribution, for volunteers, and for residents. More needed on weekends. Long-term volunteers are invited to camp at this hub, which is run by the Rainbow Superstorm Sandy Response. Please be respectful of the norms of the camp. Be sure to bring very warm clothes, as this is a cold, windy, wet, coastal spot. Bring your own tents and sleeping bags. This camp is located at the site of Union Hose Fire Company #1, at the invitation of the firehouse, so there should be no problems from local authorities. The camp is providing a vital service to the local community without taxing limited local resources. SUPPLIES NEEDED: OSHA N95/N92 face-masks, waterproof boots, waterproof work-gloves, hazmat suits, heavy-duty work clothes, tarps, waterproof plastic bins, crow-bars, headlamps, batteries, garbage bags. Food is always welcome (extra can be sent to other parts of the state), though the camp is incredibly well supplied. If you plan to bring or send tons of stuff, check in with the P.O.C. on the ground first to ensure they have capacity to receive it.
Times: 24/7
Contact: Allie (732) 616-0978
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Church of Grace and Peace

1563 Old Freehold Road
Updated yesterday 12pm
Details: NEEDS: Non perishable food items, PB&J, Shelf Life Milk, Cleaning Supplies (trash Bags, brooms, mops, rubber gloves) VOLUNTEERS: 2 orientation sessions: 7:30AM & 12:30PM. Volunteers are then assigned to their tasks.
Times: Opens 7:30am
Contact: Tammy (732) 349-1550 x204
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Long Beach Island/Manahawkin Hub @ King of Kings Church

1000 N. Main St. Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Updated today 2pm
Details: NEEDS/REQUESTS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Volunteers are needed all day for lots of SORTING & PACKING, and some local distribution of goods and services. King of Kings Church has fielded a huge and impressive operation. They have heated showers in a trailer behind their gymnasium, which is full of clothes. Their sanctuary is full of food and supplies, and they have a medical clinic complete with free doctors' hours. They are working with other organizations in the area to help Long Beach Island recover from its devastation. As their capacity grows, volunteers will be needed for other tasks, but for now there is a great need for packing, sorting, and local distribution. There is also a need for ORGANIZERS to come help streamline this massive operation. If you're interested in temporarily relocating to the area to organize on behalf of Occupy Sandy, please contact OccupySandyNJ@interoccupy.net to arrange local housing. SUPPLIES: Non-perishable food items. Baby supplies (food, diapers, formula, clothing). Childrens' clothes. Medical supplies. Waterproof bins. Safety equipment & muck-out equipment (OSHA N95/N92 FACEMASKS, waterproof boots, waterproof work gloves, hazmat suits and/or heavy-duty overalls, tarps, waterproof plastic bins, crow-bars, headlamps, batteries).
Times: Open all day
Contact: No need to call in advance, for the time being
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Long Beach Island/Manahawkin Hub @ King of Kings Church

1000 N. Main St. Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Updated today 2pm
Details: NEEDS/REQUESTS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Volunteers are needed all day for lots of SORTING & PACKING, and some local distribution of goods and services. King of Kings Church has fielded a huge and impressive operation. They have heated showers in a trailer behind their gymnasium, which is full of clothes. Their sanctuary is full of food and supplies, and they have a medical clinic complete with free doctors' hours. They are working with other organizations in the area to help Long Beach Island recover from its devastation. As their capacity grows, volunteers will be needed for other tasks, but for now there is a great need for packing, sorting, and local distribution. There is also a need for ORGANIZERS to come help streamline this massive operation. If you're interested in temporarily relocating to the area to organize on behalf of Occupy Sandy, please contact OccupySandyNJ@interoccupy.net to arrange local housing. SUPPLIES: Non-perishable food items. Baby supplies (food, diapers, formula, clothing). Childrens' clothes. Medical supplies. Waterproof bins. Safety equipment & muck-out equipment (OSHA N95/N92 FACEMASKS, waterproof boots, waterproof work gloves, hazmat suits and/or heavy-duty overalls, tarps, waterproof plastic bins, crow-bars, headlamps, batteries).
Times: Open all day
Contact: No need to call in advance, for the time being
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Long Beach Island/Manahawkin Hub @ King of Kings Church
1000 N. Main St. Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Updated today 2pm
Details: NEEDS/REQUESTS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Volunteers are needed all day for lots of SORTING & PACKING, and some local distribution of goods and services. King of Kings Church has fielded a huge and impressive operation. They have heated showers in a trailer behind their gymnasium, which is full of clothes. Their sanctuary is full of food and supplies, and they have a medical clinic complete with free doctors' hours. They are working with other organizations in the area to help Long Beach Island recover from its devastation. As their capacity grows, volunteers will be needed for other tasks, but for now there is a great need for packing, sorting, and local distribution. There is also a need for ORGANIZERS to come help streamline this massive operation. If you're interested in temporarily relocating to the area to organize on behalf of Occupy Sandy, please contact OccupySandyNJ@interoccupy.net to arrange local housing. SUPPLIES: Non-perishable food items. Baby supplies (food, diapers, formula, clothing). Childrens' clothes. Medical supplies. Waterproof bins. Safety equipment & muck-out equipment (OSHA N95/N92 FACEMASKS, waterproof boots, waterproof work gloves, hazmat suits and/or heavy-duty overalls, tarps, waterproof plastic bins, crow-bars, headlamps, batteries).
Times: Open all day
Contact: No need to call in advance, for the time being
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New Covenant Community Church
701 New Hampshire Avenue
Updated yesterday 9am
Details: Needs volunteers to clean out homes in Atlantic City. Team of 10 can finish a house in about 2 hours. Dispatching teams at 8:30am.
Times: Start at 8am
Contact: Debbie Feliciano (609) 601-1299
More info
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New Hope Baptist Church
106 Sussex Avenue Newark, NJ 07103
Updated Nov 11, 12pm
Details: Help with unloading; filling orders; organizing donations  Urgent needs: Baby Formula Water Food  Warm Clothing - especially baby/adults
Times: 24/7
Contact: Katt (973) 687-0308

STATEN ISLAND VOLUNTEER OPPS! UPDATED 11/18/12 7:30AM

STATEN ISLAND VOLUNTEER OPPS!  UPDATED 11/18/12 7:30AM

PLEASE bring with you work gloves, workboots, respirator masks!  Thank you!! 


http://www.facebook.com/events/116515541842874/

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Rebuild Staten Island Weekend Cleanup!
927 Patterson Ave SI, NY 10306

http://www.facebook.com/events/579468552082792/

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Tunnel to Towers Foundation
2361 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Volunteer assignments include distro, door-to-door info gathering, help with hot food prep in the field, cleaning supplies, personal care, flashlights, batteries


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New Dorp High School
465 New Dorp Ln. Staten Island, NY 10306
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Volunteers, Cleaning Supplies, Warm Clothing, Flashlights, Batteries


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VFW Center / Guyon Rescue
575 Mill Rd Staten Island, NY 10306
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Demolition crews, generator, tables, chairs, some food, cleaning supplies, heavy duty extension cords to connect generators to multiple houses



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St. Margaret Mary Church School
1128 Olympia Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10306
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Comms volunteers, demolition & canvassing crews, tools, cleaning supplies

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Oasis Christian Center
539 Greeley Ave. Staten Island, NY 10306
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Demolition crews, mops, masks, bleach, heavy duty sponges and gloves

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Movement Church / Brown Cross
95 Hett Ave. Staten Island, NY 10306
Updated Nov 16, 9pm
Details: NEEDS: Volunteers, vans, long range walkie talkies

BROOKLYN VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES (11/18/12 6:30am)

Brooklyn Volunteer Opportunities (11/18/12 6:30am)
If there is a contact info at the bottom of the listing I urge you to call or email before going- there is soooo much information out there, sometimes people don't update!  :)

For more info go to:

http://interoccupy.net/occupysandy/locations/
http://peoplesrelief.org/volunteer/


Tunnel to Towers
Brooklyn Relief Centers
2648 Gerritsen Ave
Gerritisen, Brooklyn
917-232-4069
Distribution 24/7
Office Open everyday 9a-4p

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Tunnel to Towers
Brooklyn Relief Centers
IKEA (Red Hook)
One Beard Street
RedHookVolunteer@gmail.com

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St Jacobi Lutheran Church
5406 4th Ave.
Updated Nov 13, 1pm
Details: URGENT: Jacobi has run out of supplies as of 11/12. Adult Diapers, baby wipes, blankets, warm socks. Cleaning supplies – Bleach, Ammonia, Mops, buckets, brooms dustpans, and Contractor Bags, Spray cleaner (fantastic,lysol), sponges and rags. NO KITCHEN TRASH BAGS. Paper Towels & Shammies, Disinfectant wipes, First Aid stuff – neosporin, aspirin, tylenol, ibprofen and other OTC drugs, nasal spray, Batteries, Flashlights, Tarps, granny carts, shopping carts, wheelbarrows to transport goods to homes, Faces masks, working gloves and respirators, Gas, & Gas Cans (ideally filled with gas). Generators, Warm socks, Body soap, Shampoo and conditioner, Toothpaste/toothbrush, Sandwich/gallon ziplock bags. Vinegar, blankets No more donations after 7. No more volunteers after 8. Large donations should call in advance: (347) 470-4192.
Contact: Ronnie (646) 353-5194

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Church of St Luke & St Matthew
520 Clinton Avenue (between Fulton & Atlantic)
Updated yesterday 1pm
Details: Needs: salt, shovels and restock of cleaning supplies – brillo pads, drain covers, bleach, disposable gloves. REQUESTS: SANDY BACKPACK Backpacks w/ School Supplies for kids in Rockaway Beach Bring a backpack with school supplies to the Clinton Hill site (520 Clinton) for distribution. Supplies Needed: * Notebooks * Pens / Pencils * Markers * Folders * Etc Warm clothes, flashlights/candles, fresh produce/bread/eggs/milk to cook, non-perishables. We are accepting donations of tools & Industrial cleaning supplies: hard bristle brooms, flat shovels, long handled squeegies, rubber suits, rubber boots, 3M masks, heavy duty contractor bags, wheel barrows, headlamps, work gloves, simple green, string mops & industrial mop buckets
Times: 9am – 9pm
Contact: (347) 770-4520

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Red Hook Headquarters
480 Van Brunt #3 (second floor, above Fairway)
Updated Nov 7, 1pm
Details: For goods donations/requests and inventory needs
Times: 9-5 daily
Contact: (347) 770-1528 redhookrecovers@gmail.com

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St. Mary's
192 81st Street & Ridge Blvd.
Updated Nov 15, 12am
Details: VOLUNTEERS: Needed Tuesday - Saturday, 10a - 5p. Looking for 4 chefs per day. People who can do full days preferred. People with culinary experience, and can be efficient in a small space preferred. NEEDS: Food: Barley, Quinoa, Brown rice, Pasta, Egg noodles, Flour, Sugar, Dried cranberries, Dried apricots, Tortillas, Dried: lentils, split peas, Cooking liquid, Boxes of white and red wine, Guinness stout Canned: Tomatoes, Canned beans (any), Better than Boullion soup base, Peanut butter, Tuna, Salmon, Canned chicken, Jam, Relish, Tahini, Roasted red peppers, Artichokes, Olives, Capers, Tofu, Baby Corn, Water chestnuts, Canned chiles, Olive oil, Canola oil Meat: Whole uncut pieces of meat we can break down ourselves are fine. Seriously- any cheap cut of meat will do. No offal. Pork shoulder, Ribs, Stew beef, Ground beef, London broil/skirt steak, Chicken thighs, Bacon, Ham, Hot dogs, Sausage Vegetables: Onions, Potatoes, Carrots, Celery, Garlic, Sweet potatoes, Apples Frozen: Edamame, Spinach, Pearl onions, Green beans Dairy (prefer gift cards for these items): Milk, Cream, Cream cheese, Eggs, Parmesan cheese Miscellaneous: Paper bags, Take out containers (pints and quarts), Ziplock bags, Aluminum pans with cover, Aluminum foil, Plastic wrap, Sandwich baggies, Deli paper, Latex gloves Will also need LOTS of fresh produce Supplies: Note that we'd be happy borrowing any of this from restaurants who are not using them, and will return after the holidays. Cambros or insulated bags for steam pans, Racks and sternos, Large Gatorade coolers for soup, Hotel pans, Baking pans, Kitchen spoons, Ladles, Measuring cups, Cutting boards, Knives, Colander, Stock pots, Rondo, Sautée pan (large), Grill pan, 2 metro racks, Spreaders/butter knives, Dishes/scoops
Times: Tuesday - Saturday 10a - 5p
Contact: Kitchen Contact: Allison (718) 909-2434; Organizer from 520: Joshua (347) 213-4656

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Center of Kaiser Park
Neptune Ave - Bayview Ave, W. 24 St. - W. 32 St. Brooklyn
Updated yesterday 10pm
Details: Volunteers in Coney Island should come to this location for training first.
Times: 10:30am - 5pm Daily
Contact: peoplesrelief@gmail.com
More info
http://peoplesrelief.org/



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Gowanus Community Center // operated by FUREE
420 Baltic St, between Hoyt and Bond (in the middle of the block, on the south side)
Updated Nov 10, 6pm
Details: NEEDS: Flashlights, batteries, candles, gloves/scarves/hats. Hot food (before 6pm only), canned food and pantry items: Updated supply requests at facebook.com/FUREEous. VOLUNTEERS: throughout the afternoon/evening for meal deliveries.
Times: 12:30pm-8:30pm, especially in the latter half.
Contact: Valery Jean (valery@furee.org, 347-806-6435) or Lucas (lucas@furee.org).

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Red Hook Headquarters
480 Van Brunt #3 (second floor, above Fairway)
Updated Nov 7, 1pm
Details: For goods donations/requests and inventory needs
Times: 9-5 daily
Contact: (347) 770-1528 redhookrecovers@gmail.com

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Sheepshead Bay Pop Up Recovery Site
Brown St & Emmons Ave
Updated Nov 16, 11am
Details: Volunteers needed to help residents clean out their homes, remove debris from homes and yards, staff a sidewalk distribution site, and go door-to-door doing needs assessments. People who can do heavy lifting and people with construction and mold removal experience especially required. Supply needs: Laundry detergent, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, borax, sponges, mops, paper towels, heavy duty black garbage bags, masks, working gloves, water, flashlights, batteries, dog and cat food, similac baby formula.
Times: 10 am- 5 pm everyday
Contact: sheepsheadbayrecovers@gmail.com


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The Beauty of Community

I am not going to lie, I was in a funk after Sandy. 

Hurricane Sandy Relief Operation-Vanessa

Writing, which I do every morning as  an exercise of release had not come so easily these days. 

When Sandy hit my area, without power, internet or phone service I was in a state of shock, zombie-like daze, disbelief from what I saw and heard happened in other parts of the state. Then, something inside me clicked and screamed in my head, “Reach out to your peeps and DO something.”

I CANNOT get through my day without my peeps!!!!

So, standing in the middle of the street (the only place where my cell had any service) I started making phone calls, emailing, tweeting, posting on FB, using my network as a lifeline of communication to the rest of the world...and I have to tell you...it solidified my belief in others and their willingness and ability to do good, be amazing, help...without expecting anything in return. 

Reaching out to my community through Bella, The Entrepreneurial Think Tank for Moms, It Is In All of Us, Savor the Success... you can see what happened in the slideshow.

Our work is not over and won’t be for a while but, the support to get NY and NJ back on their feet, continues to pour in. 

I am grateful to be back to writing and that my family is safe. May God continue to give us the strength and drive to support so many who have lost so much.

You can contribute to the relief efforts in several ways: 

Support  SI University Hospital Employees by purchasing a ticket to Bella's Winter Wonderland.

Donate to the Relief Fund for Sandy Victims, started by ETTM here.

Vanessa Coppes