OneGrassRoot
OneGrassRoot's Journal*** HELP FELLOW DUers: Countdown to a New World Edition!!! ***
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified."
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If you're not familiar with Wishadoo, please see my journal for previous posts.
[font color="green"; font size="+2"]7 Days to a NEW WORLD!!! TODAY'S FOCUS: LOVE[/font]
While many focus on the end of the world (some serious, others in jest), the Wishadoo! Vision is one of a NEW WORLD...one founded in Love, Compassion, Peace, Cooperation, Unity, Integrity and Truth, and the fundamental belief that we're all in this together.
Please show some love to the two current Wishlist Posts created by DUers. You can show love by kicking & recommending this thread and doing what you can, even if it isn't financial! We can ALWAYS help by simply acknowledging someone. It takes a lot of courage to "put yourself out there" and ask for help.
BTW, if you're on FB and/or twitter and connected to other DUers, please share these threads! Also, other communities can make use of the Wishlist and other tools to help their community members, as Skinner has allowed us to do here at DU.
[font color="blue"][font size="3"]1. WE'RE STILL FOCUSING ON DEEK'S WISHLIST. Only $72.50 has been raised thus far. You may remember deek's thread from April 2012, where she asked for votes to win a new wheelchair van for her daughter. DUers voted, but she didn't win. The engine on her van died and she needs a new one now, so she turned to Wishadoo! for help.
Here is the link to the Wishlist post (remember, Wishadoo!'s Wishlist tool is like "a craigslist of compassion" .
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/139/help-for-new-engine-for-disabled-van/
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[font color="blue"][font size="3"]2. Next is DUer, silvershadow, who created a Wishlist Post to raise funds necessary to start a non-profit organization for those who have Multiple Sclerosis and other similar neurological diseases.
"I have MS, and struggle daily through my life. I envision starting small and growing the organization to where it needs to be."
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/125/need-to-start-a-non-profit/
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[font color="black"](You can contact deek and silvershadow here at DU or via Wishadoo. Offering emotional support and suggestions can be priceless gifts.
There are other Wishlist posts, some of which were posted by other DUers (again, please see my journal for previous Wishadoo-related OP's here at DU).
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[font size="3"]PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY YOU CAN[/font] [/center]
Again, it is GREATLY appreciated it if you would kindly:
* Recommend this thread and keep it kicked
* Share the Wishlist post with your social networks (or share from here, of course)
* Offer whatever support you can (financial support, information, advice, well wishes, etc.)
* Share Wishadoo! with others (online and in person); after all, the more who gather...
Thank you!
[font color="green"]OTHER HELPFUL LINKS @ WISHADOO:
Marketplace (like ebay for good!)
Business Directory
To see an infographic which summarizes the existing tools and goals of Wishadoo!, please CLICK HERE (then click again to enlarge).
[center]* * * * * * *
ABOUT WISHADOO!: Anyone is welcome to use the tools at Wishadoo, so long as the Terms of Service are adhered to (basically "play nice" and don't lie). This includes creating posts in the Wishlist, a "craigslist of compassion." Most of us are struggling with one thing or another, and as you'll see, there are many categories in the Wishlist to cover a variety of issues/needs.
Wishadoo! is a comprehensive portal providing tools, resources and inspiration to connect, help/be helped, and cultivate compassion, cooperation and authentic community in myriad ways, online and in our own "backyards." Wishadoo!'s tools have been designed to integrate and be of service to all sectors of community: individuals, neighborhoods, schools, organizations and businesses.
The Wishlist is where we can ask, offer, give, receive and pay it forward. If you create a Wishlist post, let me know your DU name, and I can start to do weekly or biweekly threads such as this to highlight DUers' needs and offerings.
Any contributions to Wishadoo! goes toward the cost of maintaining the site, NOT toward any Wishlist posts. That takes place one on one, between Wishadoo! members. If you are able to help with costs to keep the site going, we all appreciate your generosity tremendously.
MANY, MANY thanks to those who have already
helped support Wishadoo! in various ways!
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*** UPDATE *** Keep the warm & fuzzy COMMUNITY vibe going (SCE|LOLcat Edition)
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
If you're not familiar with Wishadoo, please see my journal for previous posts.
[font size="3"][font color="green"]UPDATE: As of late Saturday evening, $55 had been raised. Goal is now $3345.[/font]
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This Wishadoo-DU Wishlist post is in honor of the love, community and compassion displayed in the various threads involving SalmonChantedEvening over the last couple of days. There was a lot of heart displayed in many of those threads. (Maybe you all can post links to them as one way of keeping this OP kicked, or even post a link to THIS OP in those many threads?)
Earlier this week I asked for suggestions regarding how I can make these Wishadoo-DU Wishlist posts more visible since many want to help fellow DUers -- even if it's in the form of offering emotional support, resource suggestions, insights and experiences -- but they often don't see these posts because they don't get enough visibility.
I feel confident saying that SCE would want more visibility and engagement about these OPs, because he embodies Community and Compassion, and many others obviously recognize this. 
Therefore, this post is done in his honor, and I hope everyone who showed support for him and the LOLcats in the many other threads will show as much support for this by kicking, recommending, and doing what you can, even if it isn't financial! We can ALWAYS help by simply acknowledging someone. It takes a lot of courage to "put yourself out there" and ask for help.
BTW, if you're on FB and/or twitter and connected to other DUers, please share these threads! Also, other communities can make use of the Wishlist and other tools to help their community members, as Skinner has allowed us to do here at DU.
First, please see this thank you OP from DUer, rbrnmw, regarding the most recent Wishadoo-DU OP.
[font color="blue"][font size="3"]Today's OP is focused on another long-time DUer's Wish (deek). You may remember deek's thread from April 2012, where she asked for votes to win a new wheelchair van for her daughter. DUers voted, but she didn't win. The engine on her van died and she needs a new one now, so she turned to Wishadoo! for help.
Here is the link to the Wishlist post (remember, Wishadoo!'s Wishlist tool is like "a craigslist of compassion" .
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/139/help-for-new-engine-for-disabled-van/
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(You can contact deek here at DU or via Wishadoo. Offering emotional support and suggestions can be priceless gifts. If you are able to help financially, please note her PayPal addy is provided. I believe the easiest way to send money without incurring a PayPal fee is to send as a “Personal” payment, making sure to select “Other” as the reason for payment.)
Since there isn't a convenient "donate" button, here is HOW TO DONATE TO DEEK via PAYPAL:
1. Go to http://www.paypal.com and log in.
2. At the top left of the page after logging in, click the SEND MONEY tab.
3. Next you insert the email of the recipient: dmkoooo@sbcglobal.net
4. Insert amount you wish to donate.
5. Select PERSONAL, and OTHER to avoid fees
Please read DonRedwood's eloquent OP!
[font color="black"]There are other Wishlist posts, some of which were posted by other DUers (again, please see my journal for previous Wishadoo-related OP's here at DU).
[center] [font size="3"]PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY YOU CAN[/font] [/center]
Again, it is GREATLY appreciated it if you would kindly:
* Recommend this thread and keep it kicked
* Share the Wishlist post with your social networks (or share from here, of course)
* Offer whatever support you can (financial support, information, advice, well wishes, etc.)
* Share Wishadoo! with others (online and in person); after all, the more who gather...
Thank you!
[font color="green"]OTHER HELPFUL LINKS @ WISHADOO:
Marketplace (like ebay for good!)
Business Directory
To see an infographic which summarizes the existing tools and goals of Wishadoo!, please CLICK HERE (then click again to enlarge).
[link:http://www.wishadoo.org/ecard/send/id_178/|
]
[center]* * * * * * *
ABOUT WISHADOO!: Anyone is welcome to use the tools at Wishadoo, so long as the Terms of Service are adhered to (basically "play nice" and don't lie). This includes creating posts in the Wishlist, a "craigslist of compassion." Most of us are struggling with one thing or another, and as you'll see, there are many categories in the Wishlist to cover a variety of issues/needs.
Wishadoo! is a comprehensive portal providing tools, resources and inspiration to connect, help/be helped, and cultivate compassion, cooperation and authentic community in myriad ways, online and in our own "backyards." Wishadoo!'s tools have been designed to integrate and be of service to all sectors of community: individuals, neighborhoods, schools, organizations and businesses.
The Wishlist is where we can ask, offer, give, receive and pay it forward. If you create a Wishlist post, let me know your DU name, and I can start to do weekly or biweekly threads such as this to highlight DUers' needs and offerings.
Any contributions to Wishadoo! goes toward the cost of maintaining the site, NOT toward any Wishlist posts. That takes place one on one, between Wishadoo! members. If you are able to help with costs to keep the site going, we all appreciate your generosity tremendously.
MANY, MANY thanks to those who have already
helped support Wishadoo! in various ways!
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*** HELP DUers -- 12/2/12 ***
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
If you don't know the Glenn Beck-Wishadoo story, in a nutshell, he dissed Wishadoo! on his TV show in 2010, resulting in his followers stalking me online. You know...saying my support of The Common Good is part of the commie/pinko/socialist/nazi plot. I'm trying a new approach with the subject line.
Imagine every time you kick this thread, you're kicking greedy racists and bigots into oblivion!
Remember, even if you can't help financially, perhaps you have resource suggestions or can share your insights and experiences. We can ALWAYS help by simply acknowledging someone. It takes a lot of courage to "put yourself out there" and ask for help.
If you're not familiar with Wishadoo, please see my journal for previous posts.
[font color="blue"][font size="3"]1. A long-time DUer is still in dire need of your help! (DUer, rbrnmw)
Please read the Wishlist post, and note the PayPal addy provided. The Wishlist tool is like "a craigslist of compassion":
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/138/help-with-rent-or-utilities-for-a-month/[/font]
[font color="red"][font size="3"]As of Sunday, 12/2/12, $300 has been raised!!! WE NEED ANOTHER $150 to help this family!!![/font] 
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[font color="blue"][font size="3"]2. Please also check out a new Wishlist post by another long-time DUer (deek).
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/139/help-for-new-engine-for-disabled-van/
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(The easiest way to send money without incurring a PayPal fee is to send as a “Personal” payment, making sure to select “Other” as the reason for payment.)
[font color="black"]There are other Wishlist posts, some of which were posted by other DUers (again, please see my journal for previous Wishadoo-related OP's here at DU).
[center] [font size="3"]PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY YOU CAN[/font] [/center]
Again, it is GREATLY appreciated it if you would kindly:
* Recommend this thread and keep it kicked
* Share the Wishlist post with your social networks (or share from here, of course)
* Offer whatever support you can (financial support, information, advice, well wishes, etc.)
* Share Wishadoo! with others (online and in person); after all, the more who gather...
Thank you!
[font color="green"]OTHER HELPFUL LINKS @ WISHADOO:
Marketplace (like ebay for good!)
Business Directory
To see an infographic which summarizes the existing tools and goals of Wishadoo!, please CLICK HERE (then click again to enlarge).
[center]* * * * * * *
ABOUT WISHADOO!: Anyone is welcome to use the tools at Wishadoo, so long as the Terms of Service are adhered to (basically "play nice" and don't lie). This includes creating posts in the Wishlist, a "craigslist of compassion." Most of us are struggling with one thing or another, and as you'll see, there are many categories in the Wishlist to cover a variety of issues/needs.
Wishadoo! is a comprehensive portal providing tools, resources and inspiration to connect, help/be helped, and cultivate compassion, cooperation and authentic community in myriad ways, online and in our own "backyards." Wishadoo!'s tools have been designed to integrate and be of service to all sectors of community: individuals, neighborhoods, schools, organizations and businesses.
The Wishlist is where we can ask, offer, give, receive and pay it forward. If you create a Wishlist post, let me know your DU name, and I can start to do weekly or biweekly threads such as this to highlight DUers' needs and offerings.
Any contributions to Wishadoo! goes toward the cost of maintaining the site, NOT toward any Wishlist posts. That takes place one on one, between Wishadoo! members. If you are able to help with costs to keep the site going, we all appreciate your generosity tremendously.
MANY, MANY thanks to those who have already
helped support Wishadoo! in various ways!
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**Please see new "help" OP - link inside **
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
[font size="3"]PLEASE SEE THIS NEW OP of 12/2/12: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10021915356
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Remember, even if you can't help financially, perhaps you have resource suggestions or can share your insights and experiences. We can ALWAYS help by simply acknowledging someone. It takes a lot of courage to "put yourself out there" and ask for help.
If you're not familiar with Wishadoo, please see my journal for previous posts.
[font color="blue"]1. Another long-time DUer is in dire need of your help! (DUer, rbrnmw)
Please read the Wishlist post, and note the PayPal addy provided. The Wishlist tool is like "a craigslist of compassion":
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/138/help-with-rent-or-utilities-for-a-month/[/font]
[font color="red"]As of 7:00 EST Thursday, 11/29/12, $300 has been raised!!! No change as of Friday morning.[/font]
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[font color="blue"]2. A new Wishlist post went up overnight by another long-time DUer (deek). Please read!
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/139/help-for-new-engine-for-disabled-van/
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(The easiest way to send money without incurring a PayPal fee is to send as a “Personal” payment, making sure to select “Other” as the reason for payment.)
[font color="black"]There are other Wishlist posts, some of which were posted by other DUers (again, please see journal for previous Wishadoo-related OP's here at DU).
You may not be aware of this, but I created Wishadoo! (and specifically the Wishlist tool) to be of service not only for critical needs that fall through the cracks, unable to be addressed by existing services and resources, but to help with wishes, hopes and dreams. To be able to put our dreams "out there" as well. Note the many categories in the left sidebar area of the Wishlist.
One example of this is this Wishlist post by a college student, raising funds for a trip to Thailand to volunteer at an elephant sanctuary over winter break. (It's my daughter. ) It's not a critical need for her; it's not life or death that she be able to go, but dreams are important (she worked all summer to raise funds for the fees; travel costs remain). Wishadoo! was created to be a space to cover the entire spectrum and allow us to connect one-on-one to be of service.
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/106/raising-for-volunteer-trip-to-help-elephants/
Note that this Wishlist post also links to the marketplace at Wishadoo!, which is like "ebay for good." Anyone who resonates with the principles of Compassion, Cooperation, and Community are invited to make use of Wishadoo!'s many tools: Wishlist, Marketplace, Business Directory, and other community tools.
[center] [font size="3"]PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY YOU CAN[/font] [/center]
Again, it is GREATLY appreciated it if you would kindly:
* Recommend this thread and keep it kicked
* Share the Wishlist post with your social networks (or share from here, of course)
* Offer whatever support you can (financial support, information, advice, well wishes, etc.)
Thank you!
[center]* * * * * * *
ABOUT WISHADOO!: Anyone is welcome to use the tools at Wishadoo, so long as the Terms of Service are adhered to (basically "play nice" and don't lie). This includes creating posts in the Wishlist, a "craigslist of compassion." Most of us are struggling with one thing or another, and as you'll see, there are many categories in the Wishlist to cover a variety of issues/needs.
Wishadoo! is a comprehensive portal providing tools, resources and inspiration to connect, help/be helped, and cultivate compassion, cooperation and authentic community in myriad ways, online and in our own "backyards." Wishadoo!'s tools have been designed to integrate and be of service to all sectors of community: individuals, neighborhoods, schools, organizations and businesses.
The Wishlist is where we can ask, offer, give, receive and pay it forward. If you create a Wishlist post, let me know your DU name, and I can start to do weekly or biweekly threads such as this to highlight DUers' needs and offerings.
Any contributions to Wishadoo! goes toward the cost of maintaining the site, NOT toward any Wishlist posts. That takes place one on one, between Wishadoo! members. If you are able to help with costs to keep the site going, we all appreciate your generosity tremendously.
MANY, MANY thanks to those who have already
helped support Wishadoo! in various ways!
To see an infographic which, hopefully, summarizes the existing tools and goals of Wishadoo!, please CLICK HERE (then click again to enlarge).
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YOOHOO!!!! DUers need your help!!!
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
PLEASE NOTE: I created an OP last Sunday evening, to gather the DU community to help members affected by Sandy, but no one has created a Wishlist post thus far relating to the Sandy aftermath. See OP. If anyone creates a Sandy-related Wishlist post, I'll update that OP!
HOWEVER, a long-time DUer, who is fairly quiet on here and has helped with other DUer Wishlist needs previously, needs our help -- actually, her rescue pet needs our help! (DUer, aroach).
Please read the Wishlist post (with an update, given an overnight crisis) at this link. Please note the PayPal email addy provided at the bottom of the listing:
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/136/help-with-spay-operation-for-rescued-pit-bull/
ALSO, there are a few more DUer's with Wishlist posts. Please refer to THIS PREVIOUS POST which outlines the specific DUers and what they need help with.
You can contact these DUers here, or via Wishadoo. Actually, I could use an update from these same DUers; if any of you see this, please contact me!
If you could kindly K&R and keep this kicked for visibility, I'd appreciate it!
TO DUer's IN NEED OF OUR HELP POST-SANDY
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
I've asked the admins if they'll please make this post a sticky, so it stays visible. Maybe you can chime in to let them know it would help a lot of they'd make this thread a sticky. Here's a LINK TO THE META POST.
MANY DUer's and their loved ones have been impacted by Hurricane Sandy. If you are such a DUer, or if you are in touch with a DUer and feel comfortable doing so on their behalf, I invite you to please CREATE A WISHLIST POST at Wishadoo!
If you haven't yet joined Wishadoo!, it's easy; let me know if you have trouble (check spam folder if you don't get the verification email right away; or write me here). Just be sure to indicate you learned about Wishadoo! from DU, and I'll know such Wishlist posts should be shared here. Edit to add: Please select the "crisis" category and put Sandy in the subject line!
As has been done in the past, when a DUer creates a Wishlist post, I then have permission to post here, so the rest of the community can be of assistance.
Once you've created such a Wishlist post, DUers who want to help can contact you via PM here at DU, or via Wishadoo! If you have a PayPal account, monies can be received quickly, especially if a PayPal debit card is being used!
(The most straightforward way to send money without facing a PayPal fee is to send money as a “Personal” payment, making sure to select “Other” as the reason for payment.)
I can keep updating this thread as we go. No Sandy-related Wishlist posts have been created as yet (5:45 PM EST, Sunday 11/11). This is an invitation to do so, since many have been unsure how we can help DUers affected by Sandy.
Special thanks to DonRedwood and Freshwest for encouraging action on this!
I think this is the best way. If you have other suggestions, please let me know!
BTW, here's a link to a pre-election recent thread here at DU, listing several Wishlist posts by DUers. You can follow up with them here or at Wishadoo; I need to follow up with them as well to get a status update.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10021592347
Want to push back against selfish CEOs? LIST GOOD ALTERNATIVES
(Edited to change thread title since "positive action" doesn't get any response. 
)
While I'm all for calling out the many unethical and demoralizing businesses which have led the way in this country for far too long, I'd really like to support and promote GOOD BUSINESSES and ethical business practices. A CEO making billions of dollars choosing to lay off thousands of people, or decrease their hours, because said CEO and other execs don't want to part with their riches is NOT ethical.
With all the talk of boycotting various companies, we need alternatives. Dammit to hell, please help me create a list of them!!! (Sorry, but I'm frustrated because I'm tired of begging for help to do simple things...things we say we want and could help many.)
If you agree with this, can you at least K&R this post? Keeping more positive, action-oriented posts alive is like pulling teeth sometimes. 
(If you are interested in working on this with me, please join me in this discussion thread at Wishadoo)
Many of us often ask where we can find good businesses to support. While there are separate directories for "Made in the USA" businesses, green businesses, union businesses, etc., a comprehensive directory which lists businesses which are quite simply ethical -- not perfect, but ethical -- on all levels doesn't exist.
After my experience with Glenn Beck and his followers several years ago, I decided to fully embrace Compassion, Cooperation, Community and Integrity in business, and shout those values from the rooftops while putting them into action. Now it's time to gather businesses also ready to align with principles of Compassion, Cooperation, Community and Integrity.
[font color="blue"]So, I've created the space and will gladly highlight and promote such businesses, but need help finding them.
It could be an online entrepreneur focused on doing well while doing good (it could even be your Etsy store!); a small Main Street type of business (like the hugging Pizza Guy in FL and the businesses offering free products and services in the aftermath of Sandy); or even larger businesses who are, for the most part -- even if not perfect -- doing business with integrity.[/font]
There are many tools at this directory which are pretty cool, if I say so myself, including the ability to leave reviews, so we can keep them honest and always moving toward doing better. I see it like Angie's List but it's free to use (and free to list), and the foundation is one of integrity.
Below I've copied and pasted a blog post, which I invite you to share to spread the word. Click the graphic below to see the Directory.
"The whole idea of compassion is based on a keen awareness of the interdependence of all these living beings, which are all part of one another, and all involved in one another." - Thomas Merton
We're moving into a new era. No longer are selfish, greedy business decisions admired. No longer is "the bottom line," with obscene CEO salaries and profit margins at the expense of workers, communities and our environment viewed as "good business."
Good business practices embrace Community, Compassion, Cooperation and Integrity. Wishadoo! has created a DIRECTORY where such businesses can be found and promoted.
What types of actions or policies do you view as Good Business?
Which companies represent Good Business, in your opinion? (small or large, online or brick and mortar, local or international)
Rather than focus on the high-profile businesses making what many feel are selfish, short-sighted business decisions, let's SUPPORT GOOD BUSINESS.
Please help identify GOOD BUSINESSES, get them listed in the Directory, and help support their efforts!
Wishadoo! will offer regular blog posts to share via social media highlighting GOOD BUSINESSES.
BTW, another post dropped like a lead balloon earlier today. I thought more here would be happy to know that a petition many of you signed was victorious: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10021789277
PROUD TO BE A COMMUNITY ORGANIZER! :)
You may remember my post from 10 days ago asking you to sign and share a petition for FEMA Reservists (the on-call, first responders for FEMA) to get health benefits: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10021669323
Well, 10 days later, interviews with The Washington Post and other outlets, 107,000+ signatures, IT'S BASICALLY A DONE DEAL!!!!!
I'm especially proud of Wishadoo! being described as "a grassroots community organizing website."
This community organizer is now working on a community project to SUPPORT good businesses...businesses of integrity, unlike the others we're seeing and seething about in the last few weeks...and will post a bit later this morning, asking for your help.
Bless our FEMA Reservists and other first responders (including Occupy Sandy!!!), bless those in harm's way from Sandy and other disasters. I've never been more proud to be called a community organizer!!! Lots more work to be done, but thanks to everyone who signed and shared for contributing to this victory!
FORWARD!!!
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Part-time emergency employees deployed to assist in Superstorm Sandy relief efforts have won federal health benefits, the Office of Personnel Management announced Friday.
The Office of Personnel Management is issuing an interim final rule, obtained by Government Executive, to expand the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program to part-time workers with FEMA, known as reservists. The rule takes effect immediately.
The announcement comes after an online petition requesting the benefits received nearly 100,000 signatures in the 10 days since it was launched.
A May Government Accountability Office report found that reservists, who make up 57 percent of FEMA’s workforce, do not receive any federal health benefits. When many of these reservists -- also known as disaster assistance employees -- were deployed in support of Sandy relief, Dena Patrick decided to take action.
The disaster assistance employees serve two-year appointments and are paid only when deployed.
Patrick -- founder of Wishadoo!, a grass-roots community organizing website -- thought FEMA employees who have been on the front lines in areas devastated by Sandy -- knocking on doors, delivering mobile homes and supervising the disbursement of more than $250 million in grants to those affected by the storm -- had earned their benefits and launched a campaign on their behalf.
http://www.govexec.com/pay-benefits/2012/11/part-time-fema-workers-now-eligible-health-care-benefits/59421/?oref=dropdown
PLEASE HELP FELLOW DUers!!! (Can't wait until after election, need help now!)
[font color="brown"](I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified." [/font]
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[center][font size="3"][font color="blue"]I was going to wait until after the election to post again, but four DUers created Wishlist posts recently, and I have tremendous faith that we can multitask: We can focus on the election AND help fellow community members at the same time.
We've come through every single time. Let's do it again. There is a lot of wisdom and knowledge within this community...let's share it. (Please also read through other Wishlist posts, even if they aren't DU members; they're fellow citizens.)
Thank you in advance for keeping this thread kicked, rec'd and sharing it in other groups here on DU and with your other social networks. Tweet it, post on FB, wherever!!!
Even if you think you can't help, you can: Simply acknowledging someone's request and the courage to share their story, is PRICELESS.
No one should ever feel alone.
I can personally vouch for all four requests. One of the Wishlist posts is by a brand new DUer who I met via Wishadoo! and, fortunately, ends up being an active progressive who has found a new home here at DU. For now, they've all asked that you contact them with any suggestions or questions via [bWishadoo!]. Just click the link to their individual posts and you'll see a button to CONTACT MEMBER.
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HELP FIGHT FOR LIFE-SAVING A/C IN DISABLED HOUSING PROJECT
(I don't yet have permission to post this DUer's screen name but this is a LONG-TIME member, whom I vouch for wholeheartedly)
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/131/help-us-fight-to-prevent-air-conditioning-from-being-banned-in-our-senior-d/
NEED A LITTLE $$, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TOO (new DUer, Jisis)
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/130/need-a-little-help-and-good-thoughts-prayers-too-please/
SMALL RV OR CAMPERVAN FOR DISABLED YOUNG MAN (Akoto)
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/132/small-rv-or-campervan-for-disabled-young-man/
A VERY SICK FERAL CAT NEEDS YOUR HELP (Flaxbee)
http://www.wishadoo.org/wishlist/133/a-very-sick-feral-cat-needs-your-help/
[center] [font size="3"]PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY YOU CAN[/font] [/center]
Again, it is GREATLY appreciated it if you would kindly:[/font]
* Recommend this thread and keep it kicked
* Share the Wishlist post with your social networks (or share from here, of course)
* Offer whatever support you can (financial support, information, advice, well wishes, etc.)
BTW, I'm trying to remember to add these posts to my DU Journal, so you can look back at previous Wishadoo!-DU Community efforts. I wanted to update you about the most recent post, which involved signing a petition to bring attention to a tragic situation. I believe there are now over 85k signatures, largely due to the efforts of DU which got the ball rolling!
[center][font color="green"] If you're still reading and care to read a DRAFT of a project I want to launch IMMEDIATELY after the election, I would greatly appreciate your thoughts. I very much hope this can be a community project here at DU, one which is desperately needed in this country. Click image below to read the draft of the crowdfunding campaign for the NATIONAL FIND HELP DIRECTORY to learn more.
[link:http://www.wishadoo.org/crowdfunding-campaign/|
]
[center]
* * * * * * *
ABOUT WISHADOO!: Anyone is welcome to use the tools at Wishadoo, so long as the Terms of Service are adhered to (basically "play nice" and don't lie). This includes creating posts in the Wishlist, a "craigslist of compassion." Most of us are struggling with one thing or another, and as you'll see, there are many categories in the Wishlist to cover a variety of issues/needs.
Wishadoo! is a comprehensive portal providing tools, resources and inspiration to connect, help/be helped, and cultivate compassion, cooperation and authentic community in myriad ways, online and in our own "backyards." Wishadoo!'s tools have been designed to integrate and be of service to all sectors of community: individuals, neighborhoods, schools, organizations and businesses.
The Wishlist is where we can ask, offer, give, receive and pay it forward. If you create a Wishlist post, let me know your DU name, and I can start to do weekly or biweekly threads such as this to highlight DUers' needs and offerings.
Any contributions to Wishadoo! goes toward the cost of maintaining the site, NOT toward any Wishlist posts. That takes place one on one, between Wishadoo! members. If you are able to help with costs to keep the site going, we all appreciate your generosity tremendously. Thanks to those who have already helped support Wishadoo! ~ OneGrassRoot[br]
To see an infographic which, hopefully, summarizes the existing tools and goals of Wishadoo!, please CLICK HERE (then click again to enlarge).
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DU ACTION ALERT: woman with stage-IV breast cancer + foreclosure (need recs, pls!!!!)
Edit to add disclaimer, though not sure it's necessary here. Just in case: I was previously given permission by Skinner to post periodically about http://www.wishadoo.org, especially when it involves DUers, with this required disclaimer: "The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified."[font size="3"][font color="green"]TUESDAY MORNING UPDATE: Even though the segment aired on Dr. Drew last night, most of the action items noted below are still valid and in need of our attention, and this thread needs recs to get on the Greatest Page today, please. Thanks!
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See DUer, HillWilliam's post here for backstory: http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=1400466 and/or the Wishadoo Wishlist post about his friend, Cindi's, situation with more links, including to donation page to help with medical expenses: http://bit.ly/QbMN3y
Cindi is appearing on Dr. Drew's Headline News show tonight at approximately 9:30 PM EST. I'm sorry, but I have no idea what channel that is; hopefully you can search to see if you get it.
[font size="3"][font color="blue"] There is a list of specific action-oriented things we can all do right now to help this situation, including keeping this kicked and rec'd![/font][/font]
1. Sign the Change.org petition: http://www.change.org/davishome
(Note that the Change.org people created a shorter URL; it's the same petition though
)
2. If you're on Facebook *like* Cindi's page:
https://www.facebook.com/SaveCindiDavisFromForeclosure/posts/201012506697308
3. Share both of the above via twitter, email, Facebook...anyway you can think of to gain exposure.
4. Regarding the Dr. Drew segment, there are several links that were shared for people who want to take part in it in some way, tonight and no doubt after the segment airs:
A. If you're on twitter, Dr. Drew is asking the question: "Would you pay medical bills or your mortgage" https://twitter.com/drdrewhln
B. This link is to the HLN blog about tonight's segment with Cindi, where you can leave comments: http://www.hlntv.com/shows/dr-drew
C. Leave comments re: the segment at Dr. Drew's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DrDrewHLN/?adid=drdrew
D. Phone poll: Pay medical bills or mortgage-what would YOU do? 1-855-DRDREW5, email with your phone number http://on.hln.tv/1SZ9PG
EXPOSURE IS WHAT IS NEEDED RIGHT NOW. Let's keeping it going so the attention manifests in COMPASSIONATE ACTION....and JUSTICE.
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Gender: Do not displayCurrent location: NC
Member since: Fri Aug 5, 2005, 08:14 AM
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