At this time of year we are surrounded by images of brightly wrapped presents, packages and bags with surprises inside. This year I realize my thinking about giving has changed. I want to participate in my community more than I have before. Since the needs are so great and I started to think about what is needed and how I can choose what to do. Starting at the very beginning, I built a simple list. Here is the beginning of the ABC's of Giving:

Feeling overwhelmed with all of this social media talk? It’s okay, everyone has to start somewhere. We've tried to break it down for you in 10 easy steps that will have you feeling like a social media pro in no time. Once you’ve got these down, we hope you’ll visit the Social Citizens Blog for even more resources that will help you stay current on all of the social media and social change efforts out there.

As our Change Begins with Me campaign went live on the Case Foundation site, Steve and I were sitting around our dining room table enjoying dinner with 7 teenagers -- our kids and some of their friends. It is the night before Christmas Eve and everyone is busy chatting about what presents they have purchased, what experiences they had at the stores today and what friends they will see over Christmas break. I interrupt with news that the Change Begins with Me campaign is poised to go live on our site at any moment. This news is met with mixed reviews.