A Birthday Gift That Benefits Many

Friday I shared my birthday with Aliso Viejo, but it sure wasn't my 10th. It was my 40th, and it was a joyous birthday because I knew it meant that I had made it pretty far.  But then, I also know that I have so much more to do.

I've written in my column about issues important to me and how we can make little and big changes to have less of an impact on our environment.  Reduce, reuse and recycle.  And the fourth R, refuse—just don't buy it.

Now I want to talk about how that last part can make a huge impact if done properly.  It's not a new idea; many people have asked for donations in lieu of gifts. It is a great way to give people who want to honor a milestone or celebrate an important event a way to do so without feeling the need to give you more "stuff."

My birthday wish this year was one that Facebook makes so easy!  I asked friends and families to donate to Savannah's Organic Ranch.  I even raised some money for the ranch and, hopefully, raised some awareness—another great byproduct of pushing your favorite charity in lieu of gifts.

One of my birthday wishes this year is health food for all.  Everyone should have access to good food, which is one of the wishes that Savannah had for her farm. She wished that all children could have the health benefits of organic fruits and vegetables. We all deserve affordable and healthy food choices.

• The Grain Project: The Grain Project is doing important work and is one example of a nonprofit to support. It has an organic community garden in Jerome Park in Santa Ana where families come to grow their own organic vegetables and where they can come and pick up produce once a week.  They also get donations from Trader Joe's for grains and other food as well. Better than fast food, it's free health food!
• The Ecology Center: It doesn't just focus on ecology (such as energy, shelter, etc. It does it all!). It's in San Juan Capistrano, and it has great resources for growing food.  I wish there were more free classes, but it is still a great resource and should be joyfully supported for its amazing support of local food issues.

My other important cause regarding the environment?  Biodiversity and ocean health. We don't have one without the other.  Habitat loss, health watersheds and healthy oceans are all important parts of a health environment.

Other great nonprofits that I recommend donations for:

• Back to Natives Restoration: BTN is a favorite of mine because it does a lot to educate people about the importance of natives in open spaces and in our front yards.  You can volunteer to help restore local native habitats, learn about how to transform your own habitat right in front of your home to save water and resources, and lend some time to help the organization grow. 
• Wyland World.
• Pacific Marine Mammal Center: Looks like it is having its 40th too!  (I knew I was in good company.)  This amazing organization helps rehabilitate local marine life and is a wonderful source for education about biodiversity. When it is particularly hard hit with  rescues, it uses flavorless Pedialyte and can always use more. It's a nice place to visit after school, and we always remember to drop some money in the donation basket.  
• Ocean Institute: Another gem here in South Orange County that serves many of our local schools.  Its emphasis on science education for all is very important.  It provides great events such as the Tall Ships Festival, whale watching and summer camps. And soon it will have the Maddie James Learning Center, another dream of a little girl who was not with us long enough.  We are lucky to have so many great organizations that enrich the lives of our children.

That's what I want for my birthday, and people did give.  Facebook Causes even allows you to share those wishes with friends far and wide,  and I raised about $150 for Savannah's Organic Ranch.  I have enough things, but I certainly can never have enough causes to care about.