Lending, not Wringing

Hands, that is.

Since Frankenstorm Sandy hit New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and other areas, there's been a lot of talk about how to help out, and I appreciate that.  Sandy did quite a job on heavily populated areas of the US, and areas that have some of the oldest infrastructure in the country as well.  It's going to take a lot of work, a lot of people, and a lot of resources to rebuild the ravaged areas.  This is not going to be a simple task, and the losses will take some grieving.

However hard as it may be, the rebuilding need begin as quickly as possible.  This type of urgency doesn't leave much time for hand wringing.  It's a time to lend a hand instead, so that's what some of us in Kent are doing with a non-cert on December 9th.  Songs of Hope: Music from Kent to NYC is an online event and open to the public, so you can participate from wherever you are.  The goal is to raise funds for victims of Sandy, and to enjoy some good music, and start a conversation.  Lots of them, if we're lucky. That thermometer over on the left is keeping track of what we've done so far, so check back in and see how it changes. 

How can you participate, you may be asking?  Simple.  Check back in to the event page on Facebook on December 9th, where we'll be posting links to songs of struggle, political action, solidarity, and whatever else strikes people's fancy, and a link to vetted, on-the-ground charitable organizations with each song.  You can choose from the linked organizations and contribute, if you feel so compelled.  Heck, post some links to songs that you enjoy, too, and if you're really ambitious, host a house party with some friends to all join together for the event.  Your imagination's the limit on this one, and we'd love to hear what people are doing and thinking about.

As an added bonus, Hanukkah starts at sundown that evening (thus the candle in the logo).  Maybe we can help to start a small miracle for the groups that are doing so much good in areas that desperately need it.  If we all work together, and all try and contribute what we can, then there's no reason we can't make at least a dent.

Sound good?  Let me hear from you.  How are you lending a hand?