Girl Scouts of Eastern Mass.

What better than a group that helps young woman develop themselves for the future. They are the future employees of our country.

http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/

The Ronald McDonald house took care of my cousin-in-law Kathy and her family during a very tough period. They help family members be close to their kids when they need to travel for treatment. They rock!

http://rmhc.org/

Worcester County Food Bank http://www.foodbank.org

The Worcester County Food Bank is a wonderful collaboration of local non-profit human and social service providers, donors from the food industry, corporate, government, civic and private sectors, and individual volunteers whose support and partnership is focused on "providing relief from hunger" to friends and neighbors in Central Massachusetts.

The Worcester County Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, the nation's official network of food banks and food rescue organizations. To learn more visit www.feedingamerica.org.

Operation Breakthrough

http://www.operationbreakthrough.org/ 816-756-3511

The mission of Operation Breakthrough is to help children who are living in poverty develop to their fullest potential by providing them a safe, loving and educational environment. Operation Breakthrough also strives to support and empower the children’s families through advocacy, referral services and emergency aid.

This non profit group rescues horses from slaughter, abuse, neglect and abandonment as well as has an ongoing education outreach program to the local community.

Not only are local horses effected but people in other countries are effected by eating carcinogenic horse meat that they may not be aware of being unhealthy.

The horses need a Happy Holiday too!

This organization took care of my daughter, Victoria, during her last days of her long battle with cancer. All of their staff who helped Victoria were so caring and helpful, I can't begin to thank them enough for all they did. It is a wonderful organization.

Ann C. Jayo

I nominate Second Chance Youth Ranch (2CYR.) Second Chance Youth Ranch, or 2CYR, is a ranch that provides a loving home for displaced, abandoned or troubled teens that have been placed in the foster care system. The vision of 2CYR is to reunite families whenever possible by giving parents and teens the training needed to come back together and be successful. With multiple homes on site, each bunk house has a set of fulltime house parents and can hold up to 12 teens at a time. There are currently three bunk houses and an emergency shelter for those who need immediate placement. Teens who are placed there receive academic tutoring, mentoring, individual counseling as well as family counseling and other life skills. Many who have been placed there have decided to stay till graduation and go on to college. Second Chance Youth Ranch is so much more than just a foster facility; it is a family for many who have no family and who need a Second Chance in life. Second Chance Youth Ranch truly cares for teenagers; spirit, soul and body.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society:

I have personally seen how this non-profit saves lives, educates, and offers support to those dealing with the horrors associated with blood cancers.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. LLS's mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since the first funding in 1954, LLS has awarded more than $600 million in research funding.

Forgot the phone number for LLS / the post above: 310-342-5800

I have loved animals all my life and when I want to give money to charity I pick animals over humans every time. There is too much cruelty out there, and too many people think animals don't have emotion and don't feel pain. They are helpless when they are loyal to and dependent on their human caregivers. It's so sad.

The World Bird Sanctuary is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to preserve birds and their habitats worldwide. They accomplish their mission primarily through education.

World Bird Sanctuary is located on 301 acres of Missouri forest and glade. It is open to the public year round and it is free.

An organization of families and professionals founded in 1976, The Feingold® Association of the United States is dedicated to helping children and adults apply proven dietary techniques for better behavior, learning and health, and to generating public awareness of the potential role of foods and synthetic additives in behavior, learning and health problems.

In TNT we raise funds, help people achieve goals they thought they could only dream of such as training for and completing marathons, half-marathons, triathlons, century bike rides and hikes. We also raise cancer awareness and bring hope to cancer patients and their families. These people are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!

This is why I will train for a marathon. Completing a Marathon requires a lot of training, you can't just phone that in and I will do so through the cold winter days and the temptations of the holidays. Any of my sacrifices won't be even close to what millions of cancer patients (especially children) and their families all around the world go through every single day.

http://pages.teamintraining.org/los/LA10/jriverafnt

Denver Art Society

denverartsociety.com

The Denver Art Society is a single voice through which all Denver citizens are able to speak about art. Together they are building Denver into a more profitable, more beautiful, more prosperous city through their free art programs. They help everyone through 5 ways: -Provide pencils & paper, paint & canvas to anyone who asks. -Offer a public library of art, design, and general knowledge books. -Uphold the ideal of free expression through hosting open discussions, open forums, and open classes. -Defend the right of all peaceful art to exist. -Teach any child who asks to learn how to draw.

The Somaly Mam Foundation http://www.somaly.org/ (917)-388-9623

This organization was founded by a woman named, Somaly Mam, who became a victim of sex trafficking at age 14. (She was sold into prostitution). Years after getting out of sexual slavery, she created this organization to help rescue and support victims, create awareness on the injustice, and push toward ending slavery.

Today, the sex trafficking industry generates $12 billion dollars a year and is often protected by corrupt government, which makes it such a difficult industry to tackle.

According to the foundation's site, 2-4 million young women and children will be sold into prostitution in the next 12 months.

The Bay Area Pet Adoptions in San Leon, TX is a wonderful shelter that works very hard to get every animal adopted into a great home. Last year they suffered major damaged due to hurricane Ike and are still rebuilding. This would be an excellent option for your generous gift.

http://bayareapetadoptions.org/

The Akron Community Foundation helps our community in the area of fund development. The community is involved in order to be self-sustaining. A current endoeavor is to support the Child Care Community in obtaining advanced training in order to provide quality care and contribute to the business sector by providing support for working families. The Fund for this project is specifically, the Child Care Leadership Fund

They financially help families who can't afford to go to a Christian School but would like for their children to have that Godly up bringing by the teachers there. It's a very Loving school.

Please help The Leukemia & Lymphoma help fight blood cancers! www.lls.org, (310 342-5800 / Local GLA Chapter). Every ten minutes, someone dies from a blood cancer. This statistic represents nearly 146 people each day, or more than six people every hour. Leukemia causes more deaths than any other cancer among children and young adults under the age of 20. In general, the likelihood of dying from most types of leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma decreased from 1996 to 2005 (the most recent data available). We have to keep fighting!

Christian Heritage Academy. This school is blessed and they financially support families so they can attend for the Biblical background.

The OCI Healing Research Foundation promotes the practice of Tong Ren energy healing. that restores health and vitality. Tong Ren is based on a belief that disease is related to interruptions, or blockages, in the body’s natural flow of chi. Tong Ren seeks to remove these blockages, restoring the body’s natural ability to heal itself, even when illnesses are chronic, debilitating, or otherwise untreatable. It has the ability to revolutionize the way we treat illness, and can provide a low cost, simple and affordable treatment.

Feed My Starving Children: This is an organization that packs food for children and families in over 5 countries that are starving. This food package consist of Dried Veggies, Soy, Chicken vitamin powder and Rice. Look into this organization and you will see how they help the world.

Releasing children, widows, and families from poverty. The vision of Heart of Compassion Missionary Ministries is to Reach People and Touch Lives Around the World with a Heart of Compassion.

In response to the Great Commission, Heart of Compassion Missionary Ministries exists as an advocate for children, widows, and families by releasing them from spiritual, economic, social and physical poverty by helping them become responsible and fulfilled Christian members of society.

Through the Gospel of Jesus Christ and through discipleship, education, and leadership, Heart of Compassion Missionary Ministries will help the lost, feed the hungry, clothe the poor, and minister to the elderly, widows and orphans around the world.

I would like to nominate Team in Training which is an organization that trains runners for an endurance event. In return, runners raise money that is donated to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society (LLS.org). I joined Team in Training to make a difference in other people's lives. Leukemia is the number one killer of children under the age of 20- which is a heartbreaking thought. Please consider a donation to http://pages.teamintraining.org/los/LA10/mgoodwirrp. Or go to www.teamintraining.org. Click on find a participant. Type in Mary Goodwin then click on my name. This is where you can donate to help find a cure for Leukemia and support the lives of people who have Leukemia. Thank you for your consideration.

AIDS Service Center is a non profit organization, provides free direct services, prevention education and advocacy for men,women and children sffected by and at risk for HIV/AIDS in the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles County. Services are provided in both English and Spanish. ASC continuously searches for ways to strenghthen and develop involvement with our clients and our community. Some current activities include: Back to school event-bringing together our families with children to prepare for school in the fall by providing back packs, clothes, school supplies, toys, haircuts, etc.. Family Holiday Program- Assisting our families most in need with gift cards and toys.

Free Charity Cars is an Org. that helps those that are in need of a car to do thier everyday needs in life/dr.appts,store,look for work,get to a job,etc.,that otherwise would not be able to accomplish these things without the aid of a car. I was one of the blessed ones that recieved one of the cars and it not only has helped in our not only having to walk 35 mins. to the local bus stop,but has also made it where we can do more jobs(we remodel),making it where we can catch up on our bills, and we are able to help those that are in need for doing things.They are a true blessing and have helped alot of people in getting back upon their feet and self sufficient.Help them help others, we are all one and share the same goal,taking care of ourselves and family.

What better charity to honor than one that inspires and gives hope through a direct connection of a Leukemia survivor's story.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) has educated, brought awareness and directly inspired me as a volunteer to help raise money to fund research and direct care initiatives for blood cancer patients.

Our honored teammates (survivors) have run alongside me, sharing their challenges and successful outcomes and how they have been directly impacted by the money raised by LLS. The best charity to support in my eyes is one that helps save lives!!! Please consider LLS as one of your honored charity recipients!!! 310-342-5800 phone

national downs syndrome

Farm Sanctuary works to end cruelty to farm animals and promotes compassionate living through rescue, education and advocacy. They envision a world where the violence that animal agriculture inflicts upon people, animals and the environment has ended, and where instead we exercise values of compassion.

Blood cancer doesn't descriminate. Men, women. Young, old. Rich, poor. Any race... It is effectively the EVERYBODY cancer. Please help the Luekemia & Lymphoma Society in their fight to find a cure. LLS currently has 7 research grants and has already been instrumental in the creation of such wonder drugs as Gleevec. Every $ raised has a real translateable effect whether it is research related, or patient services related. Your support makes a difference!

Operation First Response is dedicated to the care and well being of our Country's Military's wounded and their families. Whatever way any of our very special families come into our path they soon learn that they are part of our family and that we will be a voice and forever ready to help in whatever comes their way. For many of our families the financial hardship begins quickly and for others it is after the domino effect of extra costs and lost wages. At whatever stage they are in when they contact OFR we are committed to doing all we can to support these families because it is our responsibility as American citizens, the heart of OFR is exactly what makes America great…we know that our Freedoms are not free and we are committed to those who make those freedoms possible.

American Caner Society, what else can I say. This cause if cancer was completely curable would benefit the whole world.

I nominate St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association. They are the only organization of their kind in the St. Louis area.

St. Louis LDA offers help for children with learning disabilities, as well as their families, teachers and schools. They offer scholarships for children who otherwise could not afford the services they need to overcome their learning disability.

The amazing thing is that kids with a learning disability are not "stupid," in fact they test as high or higher than average. Their disability is standing in the way of their brain's ability to learn. The St. Louis L.D.A. unlocks the magic of learning for these kids, helping them to be good students and productive adults.

This group relies on donations and the need is greater than ever before.

I HAVE A 36 YEAR SON WITH CP AND THEY HAVE HELPED HIM A LOT, MY SECOND CHOICE IS EASTER SEAL WHICH HAS HELPED MIKE A LOT SINCE HE WAS AN INFANT

Gawad Kalinga

GK or Gawad Kalinga which means to give care is a global movement that comprehensively transforms slums and disaster-stricken areas in poor economies into viable, sustainable communities. GK started in the Philippines but has now found its way in other countries such as Cambodia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Africa and the ground-works have been laid out for East Timor and South America. GK does its work through volunteerism, community empowerment and partnership. GK777 is a program within GK that seeks to build 700,000 homes in 7,000 healthy communities within 7 years.

www.gkancopaustralia.org/ (+612 80047907)

Horsin Around is a non profit that works with handicap children and horses. All people are volenteers. The children are not charged a fee. It is run through donations. The children and horses are wonderful.

National Breast Cancer Foundation

To help all the people in the world of the breast cancer illness that women (sometimes men) get struck with. The organization wants to bring out the awareness of the disease and also help to do research to prevent the disease from striking another individual. My mother and aunt were both breast cancer survivors, and I want for my sisters, my friends, my all women of the world, and myself not to suffer from this disease.

http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/

My favourite charity would be Sick Kids Foundation. I think its great that they set this charity up to help children who need it, who are really sick. I think its a very worthy cause alot of children are so young and have had so many surgerys and have to take so many medication they used to aspire to be something when they grow up but now all they want is to get better. So donating to this cause would help immensly .. every bit help!

SickKids Foundation 525 University Avenue, 14th Floor Toronto, ON M5G 2L3

tel: 416.813.6166 fax: 416.813.5024

The Wise Center for Child Abuse Prevention's mission is to stop the cycle of child abuse through counseling and educational services. All services are offered free of charge to anyone with an abuse history, child, adolescent or adult. The Center offers healing from abuse in a safe environment. We serve a 7 county area in south Alabama as well as West Georgia and Northwest Florida.

here are websites to contact the above foundation : donor.inquiries@sickkidsfoundation.com for general inquiries

president.office@sickkidsfoundation.com to contact the president of the foundation.

and the actual website: www.sickkidsfoundation.com

The NSAIE works in partnership with the National AmeriCorps VISTA Program and Tribes, Tribal organizations, Native non-profits and Native organizations throughout the Nation to help secure resources for Native Elders.

Due to limited resources only 5% of the eligible American Indian, Alaska Native and (other) Native Elderly in the United States receive services. This percentage is made even more significant by the fact that over 27% of American Indian elders live at or below the poverty level, three times the national average.

Elderly Services Programs in tribal communities provide the following services to their Elders:

1. Congregate and home delivered meals 2. Transportation 3. Health screening 4. In-home health services 5. Education services 6. Social activities 7. In-home support services 8. Information and referral

The funding from the NSAIE supplements the core operating funds for these programs, which allows the elder programs to use funding in ways that meet the greatest needs of their elders while respecting their culture and traditions.

The National AmeriCorps VISTA Program sites are currently located in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Guam, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Washington and Wisconsin. Additional locations are anticipated.

Our motto is "Nothing But Good Shall Come from It." ~ from the oral narrative of the origin of the peace pipe as transcribed from Black Elk, Oglala Sioux Holy Man, Black Elk Speaks, (University of Nebraska Press, 1932). The NSAIE is a non-profit organization. To learn more about our organization, visit www.nsaie.org. We welcome you to become a fan thru Facebook.

We anticipate Pongo's selection of our organization to receive the contribution of $250 to help our cause. Pongo.com is an excellent reference source in helping our AmeriCorps VISTA members prepare for the workforce upon successful completion of their year of service. Thanking Pongo.com in advance, we remain grateful for those who chose to serve our great country and the tribal elders who hold the wisdom.

Salvation Army NEVER TAKES A DAY OFF! Volunteer ring EVEN IN THE BLIZZARD conditions in MN because EVERY PENNY GOES TO HELP people of EVERY AGE, RACE, CREED. This year THE NEED IS OVERWHELMING- the poor include many who used to be middle class who have lost their jobs. The Salvation Army never says NO, they find a way to help IT IS TIME TO GIVE BACK-IN THANKS

We provide a free breakfast once a month to approx. 600 people who are either homeless or are living in poverty. I nominate Glad Tidings Victoria as a recipient of your donation.

This organization is wonderful! I got the chance to tour the site for volunteer work that could be done. The service that this place provides is nothing but amazing and positive life changing experiences to so many people. Plus their goal in using animals for therapy is so beneficial! Having this money go towards this very important organization would help them even provide more opportunities to help people with their animals in a healing process. Please choose Animals as natural therapy!

The mission of Operation Breakthrough is to help children who are living in poverty develop to their fullest potential by providing them a safe, loving and educational environment. Operation Breakthrough also strives to support and empower the children’s families through advocacy, referral services and emergency aid.

I nominate Second Chance Youth Ranch (2CYR.) Second Chance Youth Ranch, or 2CYR, is a ranch that provides a loving home for displaced, abandoned or troubled teens that have been placed in the foster care system. The vision of 2CYR is to reunite families whenever possible by giving parents and teens the training needed to come back together and be successful. With multiple homes on site, each bunk house has a set of fulltime house parents and can hold up to 12 teens at a time. There are currently three bunk houses and an emergency shelter for those who need immediate placement. Teens who are placed there receive academic tutoring, mentoring, individual counseling as well as family counseling and other life skills. Many who have been placed there have decided to stay till graduation and go on to college. Second Chance Youth Ranch is so much more than just a foster facility; it is a family for many who have no family and who need a Second Chance in life. Second Chance Youth Ranch truly cares for teenagers; spirit, soul and body.

This charity provides love and support to our service men and women serving abroad who might not otherwise receive gifts and letters from home. Each month, participating members across the state of Minnesota gather to assemble packages of small items that may include such things as toothpaste, playing cards, snacks, etc. The packages are mailed, along with a heartfelt letter, to the soldiers. Although the participating members purchase the items that are sent, the cost of postage to send multiple packages each month is very costly. An award of $250 would mean the world to this very honorable cause. I nominate Operation Minnesota Nice as the recipient of Pongo's charitable donation.

The Feingold Association of the United States provides support and healthy dietary changes for families struggling with ADHD, Autism, Aspergers, and Asthma.

Second Wind Dreams’® mission is to enhance the quality of life for those living in eldercare communities and change the perception of aging. For over 10 years, second wind dreams has been fulfilling dreams nationwide for those who are among the most forgotten in our societyL resedents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

This is posted by Jyoti, not by Second Wind Dreams!

The situation is so dire here that they have animal cages lined up in their hallways!They need food, litter, and other things to keep the animals alive.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a wonderful organization that rescues abused and abandoned animals. With the economy being the way it is, many animals have been placed in shelters or neglected across the country due to financial hardships. At the ASPCA a little donation goes a long way in providing food, shelter, vaccinations and most important, spaying and neutering these animals. The $250 donation would help this wonderful organization in so many ways!

I would like to nominate the Humane Society of the United States. Animals need our help and I feel the HSUS is a worthy organization to do this. I've donated to them and feel they are devoted to their cause.

Feeding America, feedingamerica.org, 1-800-771-2303

Feeding America is a 501 (c)(3) organization that is working towards eliminating hunger here in the United States. They operate a network of food banks throughout the country in support of thousands of local charitable agencies and programs with the goal of providing food and grocery products to Americans in need.

Angel Horse Rescue, Inc.

www.angelhorserescue.org

(918)607-5983

This is an organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of abused, neglected and/or abandoned horses as well as those horses at risk for slaughter. It is 100% volunteer so all donations go directly to the care and feeding of the rescued horses. With the current economy, an increasing number of horses are the innocent victims due to owners unwilling or unable to afford adequate winter food and care. Now more than ever, they need our help.

Help children in abject poverty develop their fullest potential by giving them safe,loving & educational environment

the Junior League of Berkshire County supports and helps women and children of the Berkshires. The organization has done/continues to work with underserved elementary schools and literacy programs (Curl up with a Good Book), pre-teens and healthy eating choices to try and combat obesity (Kids in the Kitchen), Foster Children and parents, helping them connect and understand that there are support groups out there and others who are just like them (Fostering Friendships) and so many more. playgrounds for children of teenage moms, support for parents, and more.

1. Freedom House Detroit 2. www.freedomhousedetroit.org, 313 964-4320 3. Freedom House is a temporary home for survivors of persecution from around the world seeking legal shelter in the United States and Canada. They offer a continuum of care and services to persons living in their shelter, as well as other refugees in need, and advocate for systemic change which more fully recognizes the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. As well as providing legal services.

I nominate the Junior League of Berkshire County!

Mercy Homes for Boys and Girls helps young children who have been living in abusive situations, been thrown out of their homes, or have nowhere else to go. They provide a loving environment in which to grow both physically and emotionally. Many of these children have never known kindness or the love of a famliy. These children are given the opportunity for an education which can open the door to a new productive life. Without Mercy Homes these children would never have known that there is a better life possible for them.

Spread some of the money through Kiva.org. You'll be able to see the difference your money makes in the people's lives.

As they pay you back for your loan, you can give the money out to new people. There's no need to limit your holiday giving to one time of the year.

I nominate Habitat for Humanity, Stanislaus. They are building affordable housing for the county's poor. Affordable homes all at no mortgage interest. So far they have taken 45 families out of sub standard homes and put them in homes they can afford!

I would like to nominate St. Judes Childrens Research. 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis Tn. 38105 tel. 800-822-6344. I really think it takes special people to work with health issues with children. These wonderful people work to research cancer and other childhood deseases. It would be wonderful if they could receive a gift at this time of year.

I would like to nominate the Pets and Women's Shelters (PAWS) Program (http://www.americanhumane.org/human-animal-bond/programs/pets-and-womens-shelters/; 1-800-227-4645).

PAWS guides domestic abuse emergency shelters toward permitting residents to bring their pets with them when they leave a violent situation. Sometimes when a person is abused, the pets may suffer at the hands of the abuser as well. Women may stay in the situation because they cannot take their pets if they leave, or be forced to leave their pets behind. The PAWS Program works to keep people and pets together in a time when they need each other the most.

K9 Search & Rescue of Orange City is a volunteer 501(3)c organization comprised of handlers and their K9 partners. They are specially trained to help in locating lost and missing persons. Established in 2001, they have responded to over 100 missions traveling from south Florida to West Virginia. The organization receives no compensation for their services. The handlers pay all expenses for the care and training of their dogs and travel expenses. They work very hard at what they do which is evident from the national certifications they have been able to attain.

My nomination is for Convoy of Hope. Convoy of Hope does amazing work in the United States and abroad. The organization provides lasting relief to individuals, families and communities in need.

They do a tremendous amount of disaster relief state side and abroad. Convoy of Hope was in 11 different states providing relief from disasters in 2008 alone. They not only bring in crews and supplies during clean up, but they stay to help rebuild and reestablish.

Recently, Convoy of Hope had teams responding to disasters in 4 different countries. The Georgia (USA) floods, the typhoon in the Philippines, the tsunami in the Samoa Islands, and the earthquake in Indonesia. In these places Convoy of Hope provided food, water, clothing, sleeping mats, etc to individuals in these communities. Not only did they meet their immediate needs, but they also set up water purification units to continue to provide clean water to communities who otherwise had none.

They also do communities outreaches outside of disaster relief for families and communities who are simply victims of hard times. At these events Convoy of Hope provides services like hair cuts, manicures, family portraits, groceries, clothing and resume building.

The amazing thing about Convoy of Hope is the passion of the people who work there. Everyone, without exception, associated with Convoy of Hope has a heart for helping those who are hurting. Convoy of Hope is not just an organization, it is an army of compassion, fighting against any force necessary to "provide real help and lasting hope to people in need."

That is why Convoy of Hope is my nomination.

I would like to nominate the Pets and Women's Shelters (PAWS) Program (http://www.americanhumane.org/human-animal-bond/programs/pets-and-womens-shelters/; 1-800-227-4645).

PAWS guides domestic abuse emergency shelters toward permitting residents to bring their pets with them when they leave a violent situation. Sometimes when a person is abused, the pets may suffer at the hands of the abuser as well. Women may stay in the situation because they cannot take their pets if they leave, or be forced to leave their pets behind. The PAWS Program works to keep people and pets together in a time when they need each other the most.

Lake Ontario Waterkeeper is working to win back Lake Ontario - to restore our watershed's natural assets and to ensure that every community has equal access to natural justice. We conduct academic, legal, and field research. We aid communities struggling to use environmental laws to protect their rights. We mentor law students so they can become better lawyers. And we educate the public about threats to clean water and opportunities to make wise, informed decisions for the future.

We are a licensed member of the New York-based Waterkeeper Alliance.

We believe that everyone has the right to a swimmable, drinkable, fishable future.

We are located in Toronto- 410-600 Bay Street, Toronto M5G 1M6 416-861-1237

We are 501(c)(3). We take in all Bostons from kill shelters all around the Houston area, including the very sick, the old, the maimed. We have foster families (about 40 presently) & our founder, Karen Toupard, has donated a garage kennel which is fantastic. We have need for money to convert the balance of the house (from the separated garage) into additional kenneling - particularly for dogs who are ill & those who have had recent surgery (including spay & neuter - a requirement for ALL our dogs before they are placed.) We have been in existance for approximately 10 years & we are STRICTLY volunteer - there are NO paid employees. The physical address is secret to protect the dogs in the kennel. I am an attorney by trade & a volunteer by desire & can be reached at 713-222-1220. Thank you for your consideration.

I've seen video footage of a child in Africa killing and eating field mice and another eating dirt on more than one Christian Television Show.

Because It hurts me to see this suffering, I am requesting that the donations go to World Visions and Feed The Children Charities.

Thank you so much and may you at PONGO have a Merry Christmas.

Thanks. Anthony Goombs

Convoy of Hope originated in 1994 at Springfield, MO. Networking through area churches, Convoy responds to disasters around the world providing food, clean water, supplies, and assisting with cleanup as needed. They have been on location for disasters from fires in the western U.S. to Katrina's devastation to the Asian tsunami and to the earthquake in China.

6 million were assisted worldwide in 2008. Because of their centralized location and 300,000 sq ft warehouse, Convoy can often be mobile and arrive where needed before other agencies. They also have a global nutrition program that feeds millions of children worldwide.

Convoy of Hope World Headquarters 330 S. Patterson Springfield, MO 65802 USA Phone: 417.823.8998

Please make a donation to the American Cancer Society through Relay For Life of Murrieta. The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

The American Cancer Society

www.relayforlife.org/murrietaca

Please make a donation to the American Cancer Society through Relay For Life of Murrieta.

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

Feeding America, formerly called America's Second Harvest is the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity. 49 million Americans are facing hunger. $1 can provide 9 pounds of food to a family. $5 equals 10 bags of groceries. Connects with food banks across the nation. 800.771.2303

This form wasn't clear about where to post the websites of charities so the link didn't make it into my post above. Web site for Feeding America is: http://feedingamerica.org/

The web site is currently under construction (www.onsetyouthcenter.com) as well as our facility, yet the physical address is 17 10th St Onset,Ma. This organization was established in 1950 and was started with funds from the community after a major fire. And after many years of operation it has now come to the point of rebuilding and adding on a new section to the building. We are a 501-3c organization needing funds to rebuild. Our community needs this building to allow safe play, educate, and work in a positive direction for the leaders of tomorrow. Our Mission"Help Build a Brighter Future for the Youth of Our Communities" Any donations greatly accepted and appreciated.

LAND CONSERVATION AND ADVOCACY TRUST, INC.

The Land Conservation and Advocacy Trust provides emergency funding and legal support to preserve open spaces and natural resources, and promote smart-growth ideals that foster land conservation. We work closely with land trusts, other stewardship organizations, and on our own initiative so that we can act quickly when local resources are not available to preserve important land parcels.

http://www.lcatrust.org

508-872-3300

Boston Terrier Rescue of Greater Houston is a great non profit that finds forever homes for abandoned and neglected Boston Terriers. It is 100% volunteers. I got my two Boston Terriers from them this year and was so impressed with the process, that I became a volunteer. Many of the volunteers donate their free time to help these dogs. It's an amazing feeling to be involved with such a lovely group of caring people.

I would like to nominate the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition. Colorado Cross Disability Coalition has rescued many disabled individuals from nursing homes, abusive environments, and from ending up on the streets. CCDC sees every person as an asset and contributing member of society, no matter of the challenges they live with. CCDC helps disabled people with small struggles to large struggles and advocates for the well being of an oppressed population. Thanks for considering them.

I nominate Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue. Just in the first two years it has existed, BRBR rescued, vetted, and found permanent homes for over 1,000 boxers and boxer mixes. Volunteers transport, feed and foster boxers without compensation. BRBR accepts animals other groups would not take due to age or illness, because they see wonderful pets underneath all of these issues. In this past year, unwanted dog numbers are up, and donations are down because of the economy. Please help BRBR continue its fine work!

I nominate A Safe Place -- Domestic Violence Service in the San Francisco Bay Area -- a very deserving program. This program is not just a shelter. It provides life saving counseling and every service a woman (and her children) facing domestic violence needs. Help the most vulnerable members of society and help educate the public about this very real very prevalent problem. asafeplacedvs.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 23006, Oakland, CA 94623-0006

Phone: 510-986-8600 / Fax: 510-986-8606

His House Children's Home

20000 NW 47 Avenue, Bldg. #2, Miami Gardens, FL 33055 305-430-0085 www.hhch.org

His House Children's Home provides safety and refuge for South Florida's abused, abandoned, and drug-exposed children. His House is committed to breaking the cycle of abuse while meeting the emotional, medical, educational and social needs of the whole child.

Abused children need a place to call home during this turbulent time in their lives. His House Children’s Home is a healing place giving wounded children a warm, loving home and renewed hope for a brighter future. His House is coloring away the darkness in little hearts all over South Florida.

Wishes & More® of Minnesota enhances the life of a child fighting a terminal or life-threatening condition by providing extraordinary experiences including wishes, scholarships, memorials and more.

What a wonderful idea! I'm nominating the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League. MAGDRL rescues, rehabilitates and finds homes for abandoned, neglected or abused Great Danes. We are an all-volunteer organization and have been finding forever homes for Great Danes for 31 years. For more info, see us on the web at www.magdrl.org or call 410-945-5454.

i second the nomination of Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League. www.magdrl.org

Almost a billion people on the planet don’t have access to clean drinking water. That’s one in eight of us. charity: water is a non-profit organization bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations. 100% of public donations directly fund water projects. Learn more or donate.

Cole County Chapter of the Midwest Foster Care and Adoption Association

www.ccfosteradopt.com

This is a wonderful org. that helps foster parents, adoptive parents, and foster children has as normal of a childhood as possible. This group has a program called Begin Again Backpacks that suppies a backpack full of goodies to help a child removed from their home get through the first couple of days in foster care. There is also the Dream Nights program that help seniors with many of their financial needs: class ring, cap & gown, prom, etc.

Training is also available for foster parents each month.

ONE FOUNDATION

http://www.onefoundation.cn/en_index.php

The “Red Cross Society of China Jet Li One Foundation Project” (Jet Li One Foundation) was founded by Red Cross ambassador Jet Li, under a strategic partnership with the Red Cross Society of China. The Jet Li One Foundation Project works independently to pursue its charitable mission and agenda.

The foundation believes that: “1 person + 1 dollar/yuan + 1 month = 1 big family”. If each person donates at least one dollar/yuan each month, our individual donations can be transformed into a much greater fund. When we combine our charitable strength, we can make sure that the most vulnerable members of our global family will receive the help they need.

Embodying the Red Cross’ spirit of humanity and philanthropy, we believe that in helping others we will also find our own happiness. Starting in China, our goal is to build a sustainable, professional, and trustworthy foundation platform to encourage social sector development and bring out mass participation in philanthropic giving and volunteerism.

What a wonderful idea! I'm nominating the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League. MAGDRL rescues, rehabilitates and finds homes for abandoned, neglected or abused Great Danes. We are an all-volunteer organization and have been finding forever homes for Great Danes for 31 years. For more info, see us on the web at www.magdrl.org or call 410-945-5454.

Hope for: Mary Bridge Children's Hospital & Health Center in Tacoma, Wa 98405-contact Mary Rowalands Apart from taking great care of my son when he needed them because his life or death situation at birth; their growth is astronomical, 70,000 patients and will grow every year, they need to add more facility there and I hope they are chosen, however, I hope that faith provides this much needed gift from PONGO to the perfect recipient-THANK YOU PONGO TEAM! MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS

This is in memory of Brinley Craig. He was a beautiful happy little boy, but to look at him you would never now the pain he felt. he and his family fought a battle against a disease that few are aware of, Hurlers. In the end he lost his battle, but his family cotinues the fight for other children affected by this disease. His family raises money for Hurlers Syndrome/MPS-I, Ronald McDonald house, Kosairs children hospital. On December 22, 2009, the family is going to the Kosairs childrens & the Ronald Mcdonald house to donate toys donated in honor of Brinley. Please visit his website...He will continue to live in our hearts forever. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_tMaWH00Ao http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq6IlPe0xnU

Please visit Brinley Craigs web site to learn more of this incredible little angel. http://brinleycraig.com/

My favorite charity is the one that helps battered women. I am a recovering battered woman and now am divorced. There is more pain than usual during this time especially for the woman's children. I'm sure that there is one in your city whom you can help. The sad story is that there are battered women everywhere, even in the church.

Wisconsin Literacy

http://wisconsinliteracy.org/

Wisconsin Literacy is a statewide organization that provides advocacy, resources, and support to the many adult, family, and workplace literacy programs that exist across Wisconsin. I had the privilege of working with them for three years, and the efforts that they put forth allow local organizations to expand literacy programming. Wisconsin Literacy truly changes lives by giving learners a gift that will enable them to gain better employment, navigate the healthcare system, and break the generational cycle of illiteracy.

The Salvation Army They are everywhere yet we do not see them only their good works. Shelters, retraining programs, counseling. My family has supported them for three generations. The Army is always there for those who have no defense. Give not just at Christmas but all year long. Thank you.

The Rose Agency is committed to providing free social services to one of the most important, but yet vulnerable population of our society--the elderly. We find so many seniors left and forgotten and they need to receive the attention it takes to help them age with dignity. The Rose Agency treats them with concern, compassion and love. We help to restore their dignity by finding out their needs and concerns and addressing them. They must live out their golden years in peace. We have been meeting this goal because so many of our seniors know who to call when a problem arise--The Rose Agency.

FEED the Children

http://www.feedthechildren.org/site/ 1-800-627-4556

No child in this world should ever have to starve, yet it happens daily somewhere in the world. This modern technological world should be able to solve this worldly problem just as it solves other problems. My heart goes out to any child who has to suffer because of no food to eat.

Seattle Milk Fund, established in 1907, is no longer just about milk. The organization builds stronger communities through access to education, childcare and temporary basic needs - empowering families to achieve self-sufficiency. This past year, 168 children were provided with licensed daycare grants, 56 students with education scholarships, 850 children with backpacks and school supplies and 400 children with a new pair of shoes. 250 volunteer members have provided help through fundraising events and projects allowing students to focus on both school and family.

The Nourishing Kitchen of NYC http://eatwellnyc.org/ is a not-for-profit community food program Their mission is to provide nutritious meals in a safe and caring environment, to anyone who comes seeking nourishment without question and without criticism. And, further, to provide access to community services and resources to those in need while providing opportunities for volunteers to give of themselves in service to others. Anyone is welcome regardless of age, sex, race, financial qualifications, or religious beliefs.

CCE is a wonderful organization for local youth that fosters creative expression through the arts as well as works with area middle schools to develop programs to help keep at risk students in school. CCE teaches dance, drumming, music production, creative writing, visual arts and nutrition. They also sponsor financial aid nights and job preparation seminars. 86% of students that attend the center do so for free and as the economy continues to decline, grant money and donations do as well. This center works with, not only local youth in an area where gangs and shootings are weekly news, but students of all ages with after school programs at the area elementary, middle and high schools. CCE also works adults and other arts organizations in surrounding towns to open the minds of all organizations to different styles of dance and drumming. This is a well deserved organization and even what I have written does not begin to cover what CCE brings to the children of this community.

Since 1978, more than 30,000 families, friends and medical professionals throughout our community have turned to the circle for expert advice, heart-felt compassion, and a level of care that goes beyond standard practice. The Denver Hospice empowers caregivers by providing an unsurpassed and complete set of resources designed to educate, to comfort, and above all, to provide understanding.

Since 1978, more than 30,000 families, friends and medical professionals throughout our community have turned to the circle for expert advice, heart-felt compassion, and a level of care that goes beyond standard practice. The Denver Hospice empowers caregivers by providing an unsurpassed and complete set of resources designed to educate, to comfort, and above all, to provide understanding.

http://www.thedenverhospice.org

I'd like to nominate Heaven and Earth Animal Rescue Team (HEART)!

Our website it heartpetrescue.org and we can be reached at 919-219-1161.

We are an all volunteer animal rescue organization. We work with local shelters, individuals, and some large commercial breeders to re-home unwanted dogs and cats. We fully vet the animals, treating them not only with common preventative care, but also for more serious illnesses, such as heartworms, bladder stones, and eye injuries. We then seek the best home possible for the individual pet.

All our animals remain in our foster home system until a permanent home is found.