TheConnectedCitizen.org 101

TheConnectedCitizen.org is your go-to site for all things volunteering, donating and getting involved in Greater Fairfield. 

We’ve all been there – you buy a new laptop (tv etc.) and your old one stares at you from the corner of the room. It doesn’t seem right just to toss it and yet what can you do with it? Or, every so often you get the notion to  “do something, to volunteer, to get involved – give back.” You search the web, get frustrated, tell yourself you’ll do it later or next time.

At TheConnectedCitizen.org your questions are answered. Born from the ideas (and passion) of 3 women who decided there needed to be a resource to point folks in the right direction – someplace “where doing good is made EASY”.

Here’s how it works: TCC 101

 Volunteering:

1. Set your perimeters. How much time are you realistically willing to give? A couple of hours a week does not sound like a lot but if you have a full-time job, a spouse and kids – it can add up. You may want to start with a couple of hours a month. Remember, volunteering should be rewarding not burdensome. Check out TCC’s “What You Can Do In An Hour” for ideas.
2. What causes are important to you? The environment? Literacy? Ending Hunger?
3. What is it that you’d like to do?  Work with kids? Feed the homeless? Share your expertise? Join a Task Force?
4. What skills or talents would you like to share? Check out TCC’s “Areas of Interest” for ideas.
5. Get started! You know how much time you’d like to give, where you’d like to give it, with whom, and in what way. So, call those organizations listed and start volunteering today!

 Donating:

1. Don’t toss. Most items can be used by someone else - Check out TCC’s “Where to Donate Your Stuff” for what you can give where.
2. Know what you have and how it can be used. Generally, there are two ways that organizations use donated goods: 1) Sell them and use the proceeds to fund their programs (Good Will, Big Brothers, Big Sisters) or 2) donate them directly to people in need.  Ask yourself, is the lamp (insert donated item here) you are donating going to fetch a good price? Or it is better off being used by someone whose child needs it to do their homework?
3. Know before you go. Most places are very specific about what they will take because they do not have the resources to store much else.
4. Get your receipt! Most places are 501(c) 3 non-profit organizations and your donations are tax deductible.

Etc.:

1. Events! TCC has an updated list of on-going events. Everything from Girls Nights Out, Galas, Concerts, Forums, Social Movements, Trainings etc. Check it out often - Click here 
2. Urgent Needs! TCC keeps on on-going list of last minute urgent volunteer opportunities and donations needed from area organizations.
3. Wish Lists – Looking to start a drive? TCC keeps updated Wish Lists from area organizations.
4. Where to Find Help! Here are resources that can help you, your teenager or a neighbor in a time of need.
5. Teens and Families – TCC has list of volunteer opportunities that are specific to teenagers or that allow families to participate together.

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter for updates on the good going on in your area and how you might be able to help!