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Since the recession began in 2008, much about our nation has changed. It's not an underestimate to say that the recession has hit everyone like a sledge hammer. Just like at home, money problems can destroy unity. It is estimated that thirty five million Americans are living in poverty. When President Barak Obama gave his presidential inaugural address, he said "what is required of us now is a new era of responsibility'a recognition, on the part of every American."

Those words brought on an onslaught of volunteerism. But many in America have yet to do their part. The most helpful activities Americans can partake in are helping charities with donated goods, volunteering time; spending to stimulate the economy while at the same time saving to avoid financial disaster and creating jobs.

There are many opportunities to help charities. Throughout the nation, homeless shelters are full and food banks are running low. Donations of food and money are always welcomed at these establishments. Items such as shampoo, diapers, wipes and feminine hygiene products are also desperately needed at food banks and shelters, though rarely received.

Food kitchens are another type of deserving charity that is in constant need of help. Soup kitchens rarely have enough volunteers to cook and clean. Food donations are also desperately needed. By helping charities such as these, you also help yourself. If you are one of the millions that were laid off as a result of the recession, you need a way to stand out among the competition in order to secure new employment. Volunteering is a great way to network, and an excellent way to promote yourself on your resume.

There is also a new charity called Blanket America that was formed in late 2009 as a response to President Barak Obama's call to action. The Blanket America charitable organization created the Patchwork Heritage Collection, which is a buy one, give one charity. Not only do consumers help themselves by purchasing a commemorative statement quilt, but they help others through their purchase. Every quilt sold results in the donation of a warm blanket to someone in need. Gifts in Kind International, one of the nations biggest and best run charitable organizations, is acting as an intermediary to distribute the donated blankets. To learn more about how you can help Blanket America reach its goal of one million blankets donated, visit

<a onClick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/article_exit_link');" href="http://www.blanketamerica.com">heritage patchwork</a>.