In order to do fund-raising we are in desperate need of free or really cheap Venues to hold events. If you know of anyone that can provide a space for us to do this, please let us know. As you know, GFONS runs on a shoe-string budget, so any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Please contact us;  6 Nelson Ave. Halifax, NS, Canada - B3P 1V8 (902) 477-8714 - gfons1@lycos.com

The following appeared in the The Chronicle Herald - 2007-05-09, Living

We think it says it all!

Volunteering could be just the right medicine

By HAP LECRONE

Dear Dr. LeCrone: Recently I attended a volunteer recognition dinner where you spoke briefly about the benefits of volunteerism.

You mentioned a term that caught my attention, "the helper’s high." During my many years of volunteerism, I have felt a peace and sense of joy that is very intense and profound.

Can you please write on the benefits of volunteerism in hopes of encouraging readers to derive their own benefit by providing random acts of kindness?

Dear reader: The rewards of volunteerism are numerous:

•Volunteering is a way to share your personal gifts and experiences with others.

•Many people experience the "attitude of gratitude" and begin to recognize their own blessings when they help others who are far less fortunate and in need.

•Helping others can be of great assistance in deflating negative self-centredness and self-absorption. Focusing on the needs of others rather than on one’s own perceived problems is one of the greatest elixirs for enhancing a person’s mental health. It is said that when we care for others, we care for ourselves.

•Volunteering provides the chance for people to try something new and challenges them to work outside their comfort zone. Many volunteers find a new talent when they begin helping others and continue to fine-tune already existing talents.

•Volunteering can allow individuals to fulfill lifelong dreams and ambitions. Many volunteers choose to serve in an area that fulfills their inner-most desires, which too often have taken a backseat to school, career and family.

•Volunteering opens doors to new communities, friends and professional contacts. You can develop or share networking skills, improve organizational or management expertise, and increase interpersonal proficiency.

•Many volunteers find that their service builds confidence, self-esteem and healthy attitudes as they help others. Finding new skills and talents, meeting new people and serving others can truly help you feel good about yourself.

•Volunteering is a great way to explore possible career options, and it allows you to discover whether you like certain kinds of work without making drastic career changes.

It can be a life-changing experience for everyone involved. Remember, many who start volunteering become "hooked" for life.

Hap LeCrone is a clinical psychologist..