It is In All Of Us: michelle-cleary

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Wednesday, December 5, 2012

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.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

SEEDS OF RESILIENCY - Snap Out Of It!

Snap Out Of It

So about three days ago I woke up and was going through emails and posts from both pages and the website. To be honest it was early, I was tired and overwhelmed and it wasn't even 7am. I had been struggling with balancing all that I needed to do. I had music projects that needed serious attention, I needed to do tons of paperwork from my other job and I was feeling a little sorry for myself that I hadn't been to yoga in a very long time... I was having a poor Michelle moment.

Then I received an email from a women who had been following the "Cancel The 2012 NYC Marathon" page. She asked me to look at a film and to consider posting about it. I watched the trailer to "Seeds Of Resiliency" and it was just what I needed to see at that very moment. It was kind of a whisper ... saying snap out of it.

Needless to say I wasn't exactly in the midst of a tragedy, I was just a little overwhelmed. But humans need lots of reminding - about lots of things. I got the reminder that I needed and instantly wanted to work with the creators of this film. I knew this was the perfect reminder that so many of us (especially in the NYC) may need at this time. A reminder that we are more powerful and able then we know... I encourage you to take the time this coming week and make your way to see this movie... it will be worth it!

"To help overcome

our darkest tragedies

and endure

our traumas

we need to appreciate

the flowers

that grow among

the weeds

We need to

plant the seeds

for our own unique

garden of resiliency

As these men and women have done."

Susan Polis Schutz

RESILIENT PEOPLE FEATURED IN “SEEDS OF RESILIENCY”

Candace Lightener, Founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Her daughter was killed by a drunk driver in 1980. Candy’s anger led her to form M.A.D.D. She has worked tirelessly to change public attitudes, modify judicial behavior, and promote tough new legislation, and numerous bills have been passed. All these years later, she is still active as ever and has been credited with saving over 600,000 lives.

Aaron Fotheringham, a young man of 19, who has spina bifida and is an extreme wheelchair athlete who performs tricks that have landed him in the Guinness World Records. He has traveled around the world and doesn’t consider himself handicapped at all. He regularly meets with young people who are handicapped to encourage them in developing their strengths.

Ernest Michel is a survivor of the Holocaust. After the Nazis came to power, he was forced to separate from his family, whom he never saw again, and was forced to serve in a variety of Nazi labor camps, including Auschwitz. Today he is a retired executive vice president of the United Jewish Appeal-Federation of New York and now devotes his time to speaking about the atrocities of the Holocaust.

Michael Stevens, a six-year survivor of Stage IV Lung Cancer. He’s been active as a spokesperson for the American Lung Association and has lobbied for increased funding before members of Congress. With an incredibly warm personality, he regularly counsels others, who consider him a hero.

Fanny Lebovits, another survivor of the Holocaust, who lost 32 family members during the Holocaust. Only she and her sister, Jenny, survived. When she shares her story with others she often times stops herself because it's too much for her to bear. “It's part of my obligation to let other people know about the Holocaust,” she said, nevertheless. “Maybe that's why I survived. In the concentration camp I slept on straw. I dreamed every day of sleeping on white sheets. I never lost hope.”

Dr. Edie Eger, another survivor of the Holocaust. She is a nationally recognized psychologist, author and speaker. When she was a young girl, she and her family were sent to Auschwitz. Her parents died at the concentration camp, but she always believed that her mind was free and that if she survived another day, she would escape, with her spirit intact. She, too, wants people to never forget the Holocaust.

Rufus Hannah, homeless and alcoholic for 23 years. A businessman in San Diego became his mentor and helped him turn his life completely around. He now manages an apartment complex and speaks to schools and community groups, and has helped other homeless people see there’s another way to live life.

Walter Lam, a political refugee from Uganda, forced to flee his country because of political persecution. He lost his son in Uganda. He made his way to the United States and was eventually able to bring his family. He eventually formed The Alliance for African Assistance to help other refugees from all over the world and has a staff from 16 different countries. He has helped relocate 1000 refugees a year.

The famous South Korean geophysicist and professor at Seoul National University, Dr. Sang-Mook Lee, now a quadriplegic, who went back to work immediately after recovering from an automobile accident in 2006. He uses his mouth to operate a bottlelike computer mouse linked to his laptop to communicate to audiences from the Atlantic to the Pacific. He works very hard to help alleviate the stigma of being “disabled” in South Korea. He is a true hero in South Korea.

I looked up and muttered: Thank you!

I did.

As you may or may not know, Thanksgiving is not a Dominican tradition.

This morning, getting the kiddos and myself into the spirit we all went to the grocery store to get our supplies for our feast.

List in hand, checking off what was in the cart, strolling through the aisles...all of a sudden, I hear coughing, gagging...silence...

It was my baby, strapped in his stroller ... choking.

Desperate and very nervous trying to pull him out of the seat ...(I could’t unleash his straps)... In the background I hear someone laughing hysterically... It was my 4 year old.

“What is so funny Tomas?” I yelled. With a chuckle, he quickly responded, “I just didn’t know Sammy could vomit like a waterfall!”

I looked back at the baby who was now out of the seat, grinning and laughing in unison with my son.

I of course, immediately followed with laughter and tears.

As I got out my pack of wipes from my purse and tried to clean us all up a bit, I thought about why we were there in the first place: Thanksgiving.

I kissed and hugged them both tightly against me. Looking up, I muttered “Thank You.”

Thank you for the fact that nothing serious really happened, thank you for my toddler’s innocence who kept calm and allowed us all to ‘chill’ after a moment of panic. Thank you for allowing us to be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast when so many close to us have lost so much. Thank you for our family and for allowing us to live in a space of gratitude, for only then are we able to recognize what abundance is.

Giggling, we finished our shopping and I drove home looking forward to this tradition for years to come. I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful day too!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Vanessa Coppes

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Unique Initiatives!! Love these!

Check out these two ideas that are helping so many in different ways!

http://www.facebook.com/healingwavesnyc

http://www.facebook.com/BEYONDSandy

Thanks!

"The LIST" - - Updated 11/30/12 10:00 AM

UPDATED: 11/30/12 10:00 AM

UPDATED CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY!!! :)

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

'Balls to the Wall': Make the Process Your Goal and The Dream Will Follow

The power of our minds amazes me everyday.

Mental perceptions become a part of who we are regardless of being aware of them or not. They affect how we think, how we respond, and how we act.

They create our belief systems, our cultural mores, our philosophies and habits. And we carry suggestions over from our genetic heritage, from our culture, from our parents and other family members, from friends and enemies, and from what we have read, seen and experienced.

We carry suggestions from our environment and from all of the various institutions to which we are connected to directly or indirectly.

Many of us tend to overlook the importance of tapping into a deeper level of self perception.

I get it, it's not your everyday conversation to discuss the challenges we face each day. I am aware that you don't get to work on Monday and say "Good morning (insert co-worker name here), how did you handle your fear of judgement this weekend?"... I agree: AWKWARD!

But here's the truth, the more you avoid facing, discussing your challenges, the more you avoid reaching your full potential.

The truth is that those uncomfortable conversations, that purging of whatever it is you are struggling with, will only make room for abundance, growth and yes, success.

Get this: self improvement, self growth DOES NOT EQUAL self absorption.

Remember how this movement was created: "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?..."

Here are 6 tips to get you on the Self Improvement Path:

1. Keep a Schedule: It is a very good idea to write down what you have to do each day. As you complete them, check them off. However, don't feel like you are bound to your list.

2. Take a Break and have Fun: If you spend too much time in front of the computer, at your desk, or doing whatever it is that your occupation requires, you should take a break. Try to make better use of your non-work time to do something fun. It will refuel you and help you get what needs to get done with a more productive attitude.

3. Be Generous: Generosity comes back. This does not mean only giving money; you can be generous with your smile, your advice, and as many of us here have, find a way to help others in your community.

4. Accept the things you can’t Change: When something bad happens in our lives, we try to fix or change them. Sometimes we can’t. This sometimes leads us to spend hours moping and falling into depression. If you accept the things you cannot change – you will be a happier person. Acceptance allows us to find ways to deal with these situations much faster.

5. Break the Chain: If you have patterns in your life, take a risk, try breaking them and do something different every day. Not only do you broaden your experiences of life, you open up doors for the future.

6. Face the Fear: Several years ago, I started living with a 'Balls to the wall' kind of attitude; doing something every day that I didn’t want to do – or felt uncomfortable doing. I know it's different for everyone, but we all have small steps we can start to take towards facing our fears.

7. Live for the Now: Don't fall into the 'would'a, could'a, should'a pattern'. You know... that list of things you've been meaning to do...GO DO THEM.

"For me, the path to success was never attaining wealth or celebrity. It was about the process of continually seeking to be better, to challenge myself to pursue excellence on every level. The question I ask every day is the same as it's always been: How much farther can I stretch to reach my full potential? What I know for sure is that it's only when you make the process your goal that the dream can follow." Oprah

Don't wait for life to continue happen, grab it by the horns and live. Michelle and I have created this space so you will continue to find the tools, the motivation and the support you need to find and/or continue to live life with that drive that is in all of us.

We want to 'meet' you! Join our Google Hangout on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 at 9pm. CLICK HERE TO JOIN US!

Vanessa Coppes

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

QUEENS VOLUNTEER OPPS updated 11/18/12 7:00 am

QUEENS VOLUNTEER OPPS updated 11/18/12 7:00 am

If there is contact information at the bottom of a listing please try and contact them first. There is a lot of information out there and it is not always updated regularly! Thank you!

Please bring your own work gloves, waterproof/work boots, and respirator masks! Thank you!!
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Library
Mott Avenue and Central Avenue
Updated Nov 10, 7pm
Details: Volunteers will be needed during all or part of that time, particularly in the mornings. It should be noted that at this time, there is no heat in the building and it isn’t conducive for small children to be there so parents should take note. Immediate needs: flashlights, batteries, candles with small books of matches, diapers (particularly in the larger sizes), single serve infant formula, non-perishable ready-to-eat food of every kind, warm socks in every size.
Times: 9 - 4p daily
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RESORTS WORLD CASINO IN OZONE PARK
110-00 Rockaway Blvd South Ozone Park, NY 11420
Updated Nov 10, 8pm
Details: NYPD representatives and volunteers will be on scene in white tents to collect everything from canned goods to coats and shoes for city residents who lost everything in the storm. We’ll be collecting clothing, sweatshirts, hats, packages of bottled water, toiletries, and non-perishables.
Times: Friday & Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
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Full Gospel Tabernacle
361 Beach 42nd St. Far Rockaway, NY 11691-1208
Updated Nov 10, 6pm
Details: Anyone who wants to VOLUNTEER their time for cleanup, crews will be starting every day at 12pm. Please wear work clothes and bring your own lunch/dinner. NEEDS: cleaning supplies, canned goods, bottled water and toilet paper
Contact: lizchimienti@yahoo.com
Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department
Updated Nov 7, 1pm
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Firehouse
58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd
Contact: Rockaway Waterfront Alliance: info@rwalliance.org. 718-327-5919 – (but we are uncertain that they have access to either one of these contact methods – JUST SHOW UP!)
Requests for Volunteers at the firehouse:
They are in need of PEOPLE 24/7. What they need are folks to: knock on people’s doors, help distributing meals, setting up a restaurant-style food station in the firehouse, digging people’s cars out of the sand, helping people get in and out of the Rockaways, etc. Keep in mind: there is NO electricity, access to gas, etc. But volunteers are urgently needed ASAP.

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American Legion
209 Cross Bay Blvd.
Updated Nov 10, 7pm
Details: VOLUNTEERS: needed to help organize and manage distribution. NEEDS: power strips/heavy duty power cords, duct tape, plastic sheathing, rope, tarps, contractor-sized trash bags, personal care items like razors, always need flashlights and batteries, baby formula, diapers ***AND** we need hot food throughout the day plus packaged food is ALWAYS welcomed. **Blankets. , socks, underwear, jackets are ALWAYS welcomed but no other clothes can be accepted at this time!**
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St. Camillus
Beach 100th and Rockaway Beach Blvd.
Updated Nov 16, 7pm
Details: This site is a big auditorium and will accept volunteers and all donations except clothing
Times: 7 days a week, 10am-5pm
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YANA
Beach 113 and Rockaway Beach Boulevard
Updated yesterday 1pm
Details: We do intake and train volunteers, send out canvassing crews, run a clinic with medical canvassers as well, send out clean-up/demo crews and act as communications hub for the Rockaways. We'll also dispatch volunteers/drivers/donations that come in but we've stopped being a drop-off or distro site.
Contact: Call 347-644-YANA (9262)

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Volunteer ny
St. Gertrudes / Disaster Recovery Center
Beach 38th Street and Beach Channel Dr.
Updated Nov 7, 1pm
Details: NEEDS: Generators, Extension cords/strip cords, Lights (to plug in), Cleaning supplies – specifically push brooms. Flashlights, Batteries. This site is a big auditorium and will accept volunteers and all donations except clothing.
Contact: Isobel (718) 417-1616 / (718) 781-4583 or Greg
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Rockaway Taco/Veggie Island
183 96th St.,Rockaway Beach, NY 11693
Updated Nov 10, 6pm
Details: NEEDS: Blankets, Flashlights, Headlamps, Batteries, Candles, Matches/Lighters, Handwarmers
Times: before 4pm
Contact: Neanna (646) 491-2765

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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Friday, November 16, 2012

Afternoon Update! (11/16/12 1:00 PM)

Saturday, November 17, 2012

The Good Morning Update! (11/17/12 8:00 AM) :)

1 - Volunteer Opps; 2 - Donation Sites; 4 - UPDATED List of resource pages

Its the weekend!!

(If I missed anything PLEASE add to comments and I will get the info in this post! -Thank you)

PLEASE READ THROUGH AND SHARE VIA LINKS AT THE BOTTOM OF POST OR FB SHARE!! THANK YOU!!

THERE IS A LOT OF INFORMATION HERE! Please go through carefully to find what you are looking for!! :)

=====================================================================

1. Volunteer Opportunities:

A)

Staten Island Recovery:
1718 Hylan Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10305
All Weekend!
Clean-up
Demo
Distribution
Food distribution
etc.

IF possible please bring:
Respirator Masks
Work Gloves
Work Boots
Contractor grade Garbage Bags
etc.

B)

NYC - Service

http://www.nycservice.org/#s

C)

Rebuild Staten Island

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

D)
Demo supplies and labor volunteers are needed at 626 Midland, tomorrow and for a while...

If anyone can help meet these needs, let me, or Mike Loco Hoffman, know for details.

Thanks so much,
Rose Duggan
904.588.5880
rose.m.duggan@gmail.com

E) http://www.tunneltotowersrun.org

F)

Great Organization!! Rebuild Staten Island!

927 Patterson Ave. in Midland Beach.
Just keep your eye out for the big Rebuild Staten Island tent. See info in link below

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

G)

NJ Volunteer Exchange

http://www.facebook.com/NJVolunteerExchange

===================================================================

2. Donation sites:

A)
Peekskill Area:

With the holidays fast approaching we don't want to forget about the children who have lost so much during hurricane Sandy.
Rescuestuff Inc.
962 Washington Street
Peekskill, NY 10566
We will be collecting new, unwrapped gifts to be distributed. Please help the Children have the best holidays they can.
Drop off during business hours. Mon-Fri 10-6 and Sat 10-1
-------------------------------------------------
B)

Hurricane Sandy Relief - People still need your help and will for some time. THE FULL MOON SALOON is collecting Food, Clothes & most of all Supplies needed for those who have nothing. We will be collecting whatever you can donate up until the 21st, that is Thanksgiving Eve. Let us try and convey the true meaning of Thanksgiving....Full Moon Saloon is located in Bay Ridge at 8309 5th Avenue. Thanks:)

----------------------------------------------------

C)

Please see video to better understand their needs!!!

http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news%2Flocal%2Fnew_york&id=8884585&fb_source=message#comments&status=ok

The Action Center:
The Action Center Needs your Help!
http://www.theactioncenter.com

Needed:

All types of non-perishable food
School Supplies
Baby wash
Wipes
Rash cream
Baby tylenol or the like
Baby powders
All Cleaning supplies (including hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar)
Small space heaters

We would like them to go to:
the Action Center
57-10 Beach Channel Drive
c/o Aria Doe NY NY 11692
--------------------------------------------------

C)

St. Clare's Parish SI, NY --- See their webpage for LOTS of Details!!

http://www.stclaresi.com/sandy

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E)

UES DROP OFF

HURRICANE SANDY RELIEF
DONATION DROP OFF POINT

Hammers; Crowbars; Tools; Work/Rubber Gloves
Heavy Duty Garbage Bags/Pails; Shovels; Mops Push Brooms; Scrub Brushes; Sponges; Buckets; Bleach Clorox Wipes; Paper Towels; Toilet Paper Toiletries; First Aid Supplies; Face Masks Headlamps; Flashlights; Batteries; Extension Cords; Hand Warmers; Baby Food/Supplies; Water; Cough Medicine; Easy to Prep/Eat Food Gatorade; Juice; Pet Food; Laundry Detergent; Plastic Eating Ware; Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detectors; Wheel Barrels; Step Ladders

Molly Pitcher’s Ale House
85th Street & 2nd Avenue

Sunday November 18th 10am-2pm

www.facebook.com/UESDropOff
www.twitter.com/UESDropOff

https://www.facebook.com/events/418777054856056

-----------------------------------------------------

See flyer on page of link below!

There are 5 donation sites all over the city there

http://www.tunneltotowersrun.org

=================================================================

3. List of Resources

LIST OF FB PAGES, GROUPS, WEBSITES SORTED BY LOCATION!

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!!!
---------------------------------------------------
Thanksgiving

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

St Charles in Oakwood heights Staten Island is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for all those affected by the storm Thanksgiving Day from 12- 3 pm 200 Penn Ave Staten Island, ny 10306. All are welcome no reservation is needed.

The People Who Were Killed By Hurricane Sandy

Like everybody else, I try so hard to navigate through that feeling. You know, the uneasy, eery feeling of disbelief. The slow moving 'am I seeing what I think I'm seeing right now' feeling. The detached, 'is this a movie' sensation that quiets your thoughts right before the s*** hits the fan. I found myself glued to the TV on Monday October 29th. My brain was in a contorted advanced yoga pose as I watched the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel fill up with water like a toy being slowly submerged into a full bathtub. Then I started reading posts on The New York City Firefighters Brotherhood Foundation facebook page. There were calls for backup because a firehouse was flooding and the members were struggling to get out. Then came the announcement that Breezy Point was on fire ... life over property was the next post. Then all of lower Manhattan went dark as the streets filled with water. Every story, every post, and every picture dragged me further and further from the safety of my pre-hurricane world.

I had the "best" seat in the house and I watched nothing but Sandy coverage and read nothing but Sandy tweets until the power went out. You would think that would be enough? But still, I needed to drive through the streets of Midland Beach before I really knew what had happened. Then and only then did the details come into focus. I slowed my car, mouth open shaking my head. Streets were littered with cars and boats; there were hundreds of people standing outside of gutted homes whose contents looked as if they had been vomited out onto the street. They were all struggling with THAT feeling. It wasn't until I saw it that it became real. And the reality is, Sandy wound up and then gave us a shot to the gut that brought us to our knees, gasping for air.

We know that the coastline surrounding the tri-state area has been devastated. We know that it is going to take many neighborhoods years to recover, if ever. We also know that over 100 people lost their lives to this natural disaster... Over 100 people. Do we know that? Really? Or do we just have that information? Whitney Hess, wants us to really know. To the best of her ability she created a list with the names and the stories of each of Sandy's victims.

Just as I had to drive through the decimated streets of Staten Island before I really understood the storm's full impact, I had to read about each and every individual that died in the path of Sandy before I really knew. I know now. My heart sinks for each family member and friend of those that were lost. I am again humbled as I slow down, mouth open shaking my head ...

It is In All Of Us

Pages

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Things I'm Afraid to Tell You

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

SEEDS OF RESILIENCY - Snap Out Of It!

Snap Out Of It

I looked up and muttered: Thank you!

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Unique Initiatives!! Love these!

Unique Initiatives!! Love these!

"The LIST" - - Updated 11/30/12 10:00 AM

UPDATED: 11/30/12 10:00 AM

UPDATED CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY!!! :)

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

'Balls to the Wall': Make the Process Your Goal and The Dream Will Follow

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

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

QUEENS VOLUNTEER OPPS updated 11/18/12 7:00 am

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

Friday, November 16, 2012

Afternoon Update! (11/16/12 1:00 PM)

Saturday, November 17, 2012

The Good Morning Update! (11/17/12 8:00 AM) :)

The Good Morning Update! (11/17/12 8:00 AM) :)

1 - Volunteer Opps; 2 - Donation Sites; 4 - UPDATED List of resource pages

1. Volunteer Opportunities:

A)

B)

2. Donation sites:

3. List of Resources

St Charles in Oakwood heights Staten Island is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for all those affected by the storm Thanksgiving Day from 12- 3 pm 200 Penn Ave Staten Island, ny 10306. All are welcome no reservation is needed.

The People Who Were Killed By Hurricane Sandy

The People Who Were Killed By Hurricane Sandy

http://whitneyhess.com/blog/2012/11/05/the-people-who-were-killed-by-hurricane-sandy/