I grew up in Ireland in the 70s and 80s at a time when poverty was rampant and unemployment endemic. And yet, even in this environment, we were taught by parents and teachers that we had a responsibility to help others even less fortunate than ourselves. We held fundraisers for domestic and international causes. We stood in the rain and wind and collected spare change and thought we were fabulous.

I believe in reaching out and trying to make a difference however I can. In the recent past, that has meant cajoling my workmates to buy magazines they probably didn’t want to support my son’s elementary school. It has mean participating in United Way and diligently sending in monthly checks to support my sponsored child through Save the Children.

Now, I have an opportunity to use my blog to reach out further and possibly make a bigger contribution than ever before. Passports With Purpose is an idea which came together over coffee with my travel-blogging friends: Beth Whitman, Debbie Dubrow and Pam Mandel. It is a fundraiser for travel bloggers and blog-readers alike to make a difference this holiday season.

The money we raise will go to support Heifer International and enable them to buy chickens, cows and other farm animals to help developing communities around the world.

So, how can you help?

If you’re a travel blogger:
Participate by procuring a raffle prize. Ideal value is $100 but we’re OK with less, as long as it’s relevant to your readers. Help us promote the fundraiser throughout the month of December and we’ll help promote YOU through our participating bloggers page. Or, promote our endeavor on your blog through December. We appreciate your help in spreading the word about this effort.

If you’re a publisher, manufacturer or service provider:
Donate your product or service as a raffle prize. We already have some amazing prizes that we’re keeping under wraps until the fundraiser launches on December 1. Be an integral part of this effort and get listed on the raffle prize.

If you have a good heart:
Buy one or more raffle tickets – they’re only $10 and you’ll have the chance to win a really cool raffle prize! Tickets will be sold through FirstGiving beginning on December 1st with the prize drawing to be held on December 30th.

If you’d love to participate, leave a comment or send me an email: mduffy2006 at gmail dot com.

Related Links:
Passports With Purpose Main Page

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Tags:charitable giving, travel, fundraising

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