Projecting Peace During the Holidays

Maybe because it's getting cold outside. Maybe because the focus on what we're thankful for highlights the needs of so many others. Maybe because celebrating God's gift to the world at Christmas inspires us to give more generously than usual. Maybe just because we have the "holiday warm fuzzies." Whatever the reason, as we head into the holiday season, many of us are looking more intently for meaningful ways to "give back" to our communities.

Here are a few opportunities to engage with the East Bay community through Project Peace during the 2010 holidays:

Thanksgiving Meal
College Avenue Presbyterian Church (5951 College Ave., Oakland) hosts a Thanksgiving meal for homeless and low-income individuals in the community. This year they could use some extra help. Click here for more details on how to get involved.

2010 Project Peace Advent Gifts
On Sunday, December 19, Christ Church East Bay will take two special offerings - one in Berkeley, one in Rockridge. The monies from these offerings will be equally granted to three of Project Peace’s community partners, where they will further the crucial work of mercy and justice that these organizations are doing in Berkeley and Oakland. We hope to give each organization a grant of $1,000 (minimum). The 2010 Advent Grantees are: Claremont Middle School, World Impact Oakland, and YEAH! Click here for more information on how to give (even if you're out of town on the 19th or don't attend Christ Church).

Donate Directly to Project Peace!
It's been an exciting year, and your tax-deductible gift will enable us to continue growing our community programs in Berkeley and Oakland. Read our 2010 Holiday Letter for an update on our programs and how to donate.

A Final Thought...
Take a moment (which I know is difficult this time of year!) to think about why we tend to be more generous with our time and giving during the holidays. What would happen if we took this burst of goodwill and concern for our fellow humans and extended it throughout the rest of the year? Does that sound overly idealistic and sentimental? Or scary, because of the way it would change your life? Or both? Consider giving it a try. (You can start by checking out Project Peace's list of community partners, and contacting the Liaison to learn more about volunteering at one of them).