Making a Difference this Holiday Season

by Stephanie Boosahda

What if half of all Cape Codders decided to take part in some sort of community action, giving to others and sharing goodwill? The potential impact would literally be awesome.

The Cape is loaded with endless, vital volunteer ventures. Just think of the memories you could make or the inner hearths you could warm. Never done it before? Well, there's no time like the present.

First, think about what you like to do and how you like to do it. Are you into theatre, sports, writing, building, quilt-making, cleaning, or planting? Do you enjoy working alone, with a group, or with just one other friend?

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Visit our updated Help Haiti Page for artwork, photographs, poetry and thoughts written in support of the Haiti relief effort.

Also watch the Haiti Mon Amor video and find out how you can help Ellen LeBow's The Haiti Project.

Bearing Witness to NOLA (New Orleans, Louisiana)

by Jane Schaller

Pastor Nicole Lamarche sensed the fervency of her Cotuit Federated Church flock as they approached the St. Bernard Project headquarters. "We will each bear witness to our individual unique purpose," she said assuredly. "No matter why you have been drawn to embark on this mission, it will be the right one for you."

My decision to participate in the mission was never in question but that didn't keep me from worrying about what to expect. Images of what the world witnessed those days after the catastrophe – water to the rooflines, bodies floating by – blended with warnings of loose gators and widespread red ant infestation caused me to brace myself for the worst.

Looking apprehensively out of the minivan window, I mentally prepared to allegorically strap on the oxygen mask, breathe in and out normally and help those around me who needed it the most.

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Holiday Happenings Around Cape Cod

When most people think of Cape Cod, they envision warm breezes and sunshine sparkling on the Atlantic Ocean. Sun, sand, and summer fun.

But there's still fun to be had during a winter on the Cape – with Holiday Events scheduled in every Cape town from Bourne to Provincetown up to and including First Night Festivities and the annual "Dropping of the Cod" in Chatham!

While the December merriment lasts all month long, much of it is concentrated in the first two weekends.

Check out our listing for ideas (alphabetical by town), but make sure to visit the websites for last minute schedule changes. And don't forget your scarf and mittens!

Volunteers Needed at HOW

Helping Our Women is a Provincetown based 501(c)3 organization providing services to women living with chronic, life threatening or disabling conditions in the towns of Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown. We are seeking volunteers to provide transportation to medical appointments for our clients. Rides are all on-Cape and gas reimbursement is available.

Holiday Giving: Donate to HOW

Helping Our Women is a Provincetown based 501(c)3 organization providing services to women living with chronic, life threatening or disabling conditions in the towns of Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown. Our services include transportation to medical appointments, support groups, and financial assistance to low-income clients.

Donations are gratefully accepted at any time of the year and we encourage donations as holiday gifts for friends and family, who will receive a card notifying them of the gifts made in their honor.

Please call 508-487-4357 or email HOW for more information. www.helpingourwomen.org