Recycling can benefit needy here and beyond

Fredericksburg nonprofit hopes to mix going green, charity

BY AMY FLOWERS UMBLE

Date published: 11/1/2009

BY AMY FLOWERS UMBLE

Recycling doesn't just save the planet. It can improve lives, too.

Wine corks can raise money for children with autism. Old cell phones can help abused women call police.

Extra plates and napkins can make a birthday bright for a homeless child. Last year's eyeglasses can give sight to poor people around the globe.

And a Fredericksburg nonprofit hopes to make these efforts a little more rewarding.

Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade nonprofit store in Central Park, will host a week of recycling events starting Nov. 8. Participants could receive prizes at the end of the week.

"It's kind of a reward for becoming more aware of how to recycle," said Kathy Rivers, Ten Thousand Villages manager.

Rivers came up with the event while trying to think of ways to show people creative ways to go green and help others at the same time.

The kickoff will include tips for green gift wrapping, handing out punch cards and refreshments. Throughout the week, participants can earn punches for taking part in recycling events.

They include:

Attending the gift wrap presentation, Nov. 8, 1:30 p.m. at Ten Thousand Villages

Attending a meeting of the recycling committee of the Rappahannock Group Sierra Club, Nov. 12, 7-9 p.m. at Fredericksburg United Methodist Church

Taking a class on vermicomposting led by a Master Gardener, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. at Ten Thousand Villages.

Touring the King George County Landfill and new green plant, Nov. 13, 9 a.m.; sign up in advance at virginia.sierraclub.org/rg

Dropping off wine corks at Carrabba's, any time during the week

Dropping off eyeglasses at America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses throughout the week

Dropping off old shoes at VA Runner in Central Park throughout the week

Dropping off cell phones at Navy Federal Credit Union throughout the week

Touring PNC Bank in Central Park, a certified green building, during business hours

Donating used items to Rappahannock Goodwill Industries throughout week

Donating building supplies or tools to the Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity Resale Store throughout the week

Donating unused, unopened party supplies at Party Maker throughout the week. Supplies will be used for birthday parties at the Thurman Brisben Center.

Anyone who turns in a card with at least six punches will be entered in a drawing for prizes from VA Runner, Carrabba's, Bonefish Grill and others.

The drawing will take place Nov. 15, 1 p.m. at Ten Thousand Villages. Winners must be present to get their prizes.

"I just hope people realize there are opportunities to recycle that actually benefit other people in the community," Rivers said. "I hope it builds some enthusiasm for recycling."

Amy Flowers Umble: 540/735-1973
Email: aumble@freelancestar.com

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Date published: 11/1/2009