Phillyanthropy

Get Up, Get Out, Get Invovled

by Dana Henry

Tabby's Place

Ongoing

Though there's nothing cuter than a kitty, many are without homes. Tabby's Place in Ringoes, N.J. is a sanctuary as opposed to a shelter, which means that their 105 formerly futureless cats have no limit on their length of stay. Because it's a lot of work caring for all these rescued animals (many are sick), Tabby's needs your help. Feeding and cleaning as well as administrative assistance and fundraising are among the opportunities available to give these fab felines a second chance. Call 908-237-5300, visit tabbysplace.org or e-mail info@tabbysplace.org for more info.

Ongoing

Established in Chicago in 1983, the Romanian Folk Art Museum has had a branch in Philly for the past seven years. Unfortunately, it's facing possible shutdown. In order to continue to provide exhibits, educational programs, festivals and photographic histories to the public, they need a little brotherly love. Opportunities include everything from grant writing and project development to national networking. Call 215-732-6780 or e-mail office@romanianculture.us for more info.

Fri.-Sat., Dec.7-8

December is brimming with goodwill, eggnog and the like. But not all children have an evergreen surrounded with gifts and a family to enjoy it with. Rubye's Kids, an organization committed to Philadelphia's underprivileged elementary school students, makes sure children living in local shelters share in the cheer with their Girard College holiday bash. Help is needed both at the party and with setup the afternoon before. Call 215-887-7100 or visit rubyeskids.org for more info.

Ongoing

Ever been curious about theater? Barnstomers has your backstage pass. Pennsylvania's longest-running community theater is looking for help with their upcoming productions. If you can swing a hammer, sew or even just flash a smile, they can show you a thing or two about lighting, sound, fundraising, set construction, costumes or stage management. Call 610-461-9969 or visit barnstormerstheater.com for more info.

Sat., Dec. 8

Not everyone is looking forward to the snowy months ahead. Intercommunity Action Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to meeting the needs of residents in Northwest Philadelphia, is making sure everyone has a comfy winter's nap. Help the elderly keep toasty by assisting with residential upkeep during their home-weatherization day in Roxborough and East Falls. Volunteers will spend about six hours installing window plastic and other necessary items in the homes of local seniors. Call Jim Remsen at 215-487-1750, visit intercommunityaction.org or e-mail jremsen@intercommunityaction.org for more info.