Save the World and Meet a Man!

If I ever become a fabulously wealthy benefactress (there's still time!) that's what I would name my charity-Save the World and Meet a Man! Because, hands down, from all the conversations I've had with friends, volunteering is one of the best ways to meet guys.

I'd agree. Every summer, I spend a week volunteering at a camp for kids with cancer and their siblings, and it's by far my absolute favorite week of summer. What's also amazing is the number of marriages that began from counselors meeting at camp. And while I haven't had any camp romances (it doesn't help that the camp is all the way across the country from where I live!) I do love the amazing men and women I've been able to meet there.

Another place I've met tons of guys is through Team in Training, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's endurance event training program. Basically, you sign up for the team, train for an event (I did the NYC triathlon for two years), and agree to raise a certain amount of money for cancer research. It's win-win-you raise money for a cause, get a rocking body through hard training, and meet a bunch of people just as into doing good as you are.

Another idea my friends have tried (admittedly, in lusher economic times) is hosting a benefit party for their favorite charity. Although this requires a lot of work (tons of coordinating with vendors, trying to get sponsors to kick in booze and gift bags and snacks) it's so worth it. After all, it's not just a party, it's a party for a cause, and when you're helping to host it, you can meet all the cuties signing in at the check-in table. Or, if you don't want to go through the trouble of setting up your own party, offer to volunteer at an event in your community. That way, you get in for free (instead of shelling out $$ for a ticket) and you pretty much have carte blanche to talk to anyone. After all, you're in charge!

And I know there's been so much talk about the silver lining of the recession, etc. etc. etc. but I truly do think this is a great time to think outside the box when it comes to doing good and that it's not just about writing a check. So, I'd love to know what type of activities you've done that help make the world a better place-and may have also led to a love connection! Whether it's walking puppies, cleaning up a park, or participating in a walkathon for your favorite charity, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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