A Great Idea from our Neighbors in Wisconsin

This article struck me as a creative, simple way we can all help to "Do the Most Good" by "doing nothing." But before you take that too literally, read on to find out what it really means to "do nothing," and then try it right here in the Twin Cities:

Salvation Army "doing nothing" to raise funds
By Eric Little
27 February 2009
Sheboygan Press (WI)

The Sheboygan Area Salvation Army is doing nothing to raise funds in the coming weeks, and they hope local residents join their inaction.

The aid organization is in need of funds, but instead of investing in a traditional event, the Salvation Army is seeking donations through a “non-event” called A Night Without. Residents are being asked to forego a luxury item such as a dinner out, a car wash or a manicure and donate the money they would have spent.

“The plea for money is ongoing. We need money to keep our homeless shelter open and help people who are in crisis mode,” Development Director Heidi Cain said in a statement. “The needs of our clients are growing, and this fundraiser is a way for people to give in a very personal way, by going without a luxury item, or a night out.”

The idea was inspired by 7-year-old twins Ava and Emma Cinealis, age 7, who recently asked guests to bring food pantry donations instead of presents for a birthday party, Cain said.

She said the unique fundraiser saves event costs, preserving more money for use in social service programs. Donations collected from the non-event will be used for The Salvation Army’s homeless shelter, the free clinic, and the other important programs and classes that lead people toward independence.

“This is an unique opportunity for people to support the mission of The Salvation Army,” said Jeanne Kliejunas, The Salvation Army’s business administrator, said in a statement.

The Salvation Army reports an increase of at least 20 percent in the “new poor,” people who have never sought help before but have been pushed over the financial edge by the economy. There has been an increased need for rental, food, medical, and shelter assistance.

“This is an opportunity for community members to come together,” Cain said. “It is our hope that one night doing without will help those who are struggling to provide the basics in life.”