Thanksgiving's almost here and end-of-semester is near.

Translation: 'tis the season of food, fun and finals.

In the midst of such self-serving splendor, however, remember to spare a moment to serve.

Dane Smith, a junior from Sunnyside, Wash., majoring in geography, is anxious to put his own hands and feet and wheels together for baby Mia, a 3-month-old from Seattle, Wash., who recently received a new heart.

Dane Smith and Mike Smith, unrelated, have organized a bike-a-thon where monetary donations are given for each mile the men bike. Dane Smith hopes to raise at least $2,000.

"That may be unrealistic, but I have high hopes in a situation like this," Dane Smith said. "I think $2,000 would be amazing to achieve."

More information about participating in the fundraiser can be found on Facebook under 'The "Help Baby Mia" Bike-a-thon' or by emailing Dane Smith at gdanesmith@gmail.com.

Medallion Manor, a facility at 1701 W. 600 South in Provo, cares for the mentally retarded and also seeks volunteers regularly.

"Volunteers can come and bring their own activities, or they can help with the activities we have planned," said Ron Wright, program director of the facility.

The facility's activities range from going to the movies to dancing and board games.

Wright suggested that volunteers go in groups of 15 people or less. Each group will participate in a quick orientation before visiting with the residents.

Medallion Manor will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner, and the community is invited to attend.

Mallory Poole, a senior from Logan, majoring in special education, provides another idea for service: dating.

"It's a date for a good cause," she said. "That makes it two good things."

Last year, Poole participated in a date auction to raise money for the victims of San Diego fires. "High-ticket" men and women were auctioned, and participants at the event bid for them. Each auctioned person came with a pre-established date sponsored by various companies. All money collected was donated to the cause.

If unable to organize a date auction, however, consider donating money to other organizations or people in need.

HELP International, an organization focused on eliminating poverty in Uganda, Guatemala and El Salvador, is currently recruiting volunteers and accepts monetary donations year-round.

Mike Riding, executive director of the organization, said donors can specify where they want their money to go. In the end, though, all donations further HELP's purpose.

"They [donations] support projects for the development of individuals and communities in El Salvador, Guatemala and Uganda," he said.

Visit www.help-international.org for more information.

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation also accepts donations at several businesses in the Utah County area. A list of participating companies can be found at www. toysfortots.org.

The foundation asks donors for new toys, which will later be distributed to needy children during the Christmas season.



Copyright Brigham Young University 12 Nov 2008