BCS Frenzy - College Football News and Opinions

Tis the Season for College Bowls, Wrapping Paper…and Charity

by Allison on December 10th, 2007

Every year, we spend hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars on two things - buying Christmas presents and, if lucky, spending even more to buy tickets, airfare, etc etc etc to attend your favorite college’s bowl game. Tis the season.

You don’t have to be a Christian to know that Christmas is about more than all of the hoopla. Yet, every year, we all get caught up in buying gifts, food, decorations, toys, and other items. Yes, I said “we.” I’m guilty of this too. And really, if I had a chance to go to the Penn State bowl game, I would pony up the money for the ticket and book my flight.

But what about the more important stuff? Insert shameful face here. While I’m dreaming of first downs, foam fingers and fifty-yard line seats, there are people dreaming of a warm meal, somewhere to sleep for the night, and better health. I know it is really cliche, but tis also the season for thinking about those less fortunate.

So, today, I just wanted to take a moment to point you toward a charity that has been working hard to improve the world for decades now. You all know about my undying love for Penn State; well, Penn State University sponsors an annual event called Thon, which is a two-day, no sitting, no sleeping dance marathon in which students raise money for The Four Diamonds Fund, conquering childhood cancer. Over the past 35 years, Thon has raised over $35 million to go toward cancer research and helping children and families dealing with all sorts of cancers.

You wouldn’t think twice about spending $20 on some Christmas ornaments or supplies to bake Christmas cookies. Why not cut out one thing this year (ornaments, cookies, new lights, presents for people you don’t even like, cards, etc) and donate the money instead to Thon or to another charity that you like. Even if you just put an extra $20 in the plate at church this week, you’re doing your part to help people in need.

For more awesome charities, check out the Babylune Generous December Group Writing Writing Project. 

Tis the season - for charity.

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POSTED IN: General, Penn State