Give a Day

''Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth.'' -- Roberto Clemente As we begin the new year, many of us are searching for ways to become better people in 2010. Whether that's at the gym, on the clock or with our families, January always brings a new opportunity to make positive changes in our lives. In the spirit of Roberto Clemente, who we lost 37 years ago this week, one possible resolution is to give back to our communities by volunteering our time in service to others. As you might already know, Nationals players and front office staff embrace this challenge throughout the year by giving generously to many worthwhile local causes including Food and Friends, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, Rebuilding Together, Everybody Wins, Serve DC, Jumpstart, the American Red Cross, the Children's Inn at NIH, Children's National Medical Center and Walter Reed Army Medical Center among many other important organizations. I mention this now because Walt Disney World, located one hour from Viera, FL and very close to the spring training homes of the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves, is offering a special promotion to encourage community service in 2010. "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" began on January 1, 2010 with a goal of inspiring one million people to volunteer. Each participant will receive a free one day pass to Walt Disney World Resort after completing a service day! The first step is to search the list of registered organizations and find one that meets your interests. You can help clean up the environment, tutor young children, teach English as a second language, make home repairs, shovel snow or help feed the homeless. You must be 18 years old to register, but children ages six and up can volunteer and claim a free ticket. You'll be rewarded with the feeling that you helped make a difference and the opportunity to squeeze in a free visit to Walt Disney World during spring training. You can't beat that!>