I’m posting this so late… ! But I wanted to get this out there to folks who’d written us about the story we ran in the last issue, the one about Rays of Hope.

Rays of Hope is the grassroots nonprofit created by Mike Frisch and Effie Brunson that brings energy-saving repairs and appliance upgrades to the homes of low-income residents. What’s so cool about the work they do is that they not only help people save money on utility bills – money they can use toward food and health costs – but they teach volunteers the skills they need to do this to their own homes.

Tomorrow, March 7, they’re giving their first workshop on solar photovoltaic installation. Send them a note now to learn more about it or attend the workshop yourself. If you’re looking for a way to contribute to the green movement in Austin, don’t miss this opportunity to see solar energy at work.

RAYS OF HOPE Solar Photovoltaic Installation Workshop
Saturday, March 7,  2:00-3:00
This is your chance to see firsthand the work they’re doing to make local low-income families’ homes energy efficient and deliver affordable, accessible renewable energy education opportunities to the general public.

I’m going to reveal to you one of my signature gifts for the past two years – the Austin Big Weekend Calendar. I first came across this calendar at the City Hall gift shop. I bought a few then, and another few last year, and am ready to buy more this year. They’re great gifts for people who love to get out and about in Austin.

What makes them so great? Two things. First, they list just about every major event in Central Texas, more than 250 in all. If there’s something fun going on, it’s already on this calendar. Never forget it’s Carnaval Brasileiro weekend again!

Second – and just as cool – 10 percent of the profits go to Keep Austin Beautiful, the local nonprofit that regularly engages the community in environmental projects that keep our parks and waters clean.

But wait, there’s more. The calendar’s made in Austin, features all original photography (no stock art), and costs about $15. Where can I get some, you say? Buy the calendar online or pick it up at BookPeople, Waterloo Records, Whole Foods, HEB and many other Austin stores.

(There are lots of other ways to give and get involed with Keep Austin Beautiful, whether you’re looking to make an end-of-year donation or seeking a volunteering opportunity for your family or group. Learn more on their site.)

Installing gutters, downspouts, and a rain barrel

The nonprofit formerly known as 1 House at a Time, now Rays of Hope, is having its first-ever fundraiser this Saturday, from 6 to 10 pm. Here’s why you need to pay attention to this organization and consider attending.

1. Rays of Hope helps low-income and elderly homeowners reduce their energy bills, sometimes by 50%. It does this by transforming these homes to be water and energy efficient.

2. Rays of Hope teaches homeowners to be more water and energy efficient to further the energy and cost savings.

3. Homeowners aren’t the only ones who benefit. You can volunteer to help in the “greening” and learn weatherization and energy-saving strategies as you work.

4. This is grassroots, y’all. Everyone’s welcome. The main menu will feature a fish fry, but they’ll also have brisket and pizza, plus a silent auction. They’re looking for a $15 per person donation, with kids under 12 free. All donations go to the home renovations for four Austin families.

Learn more about Rays of Hope and register to attend the event this Saturday night. Bring a friend.

Please feel free to send this link to a friend of colleague. Also, thanks for adding us to your media list – we’d love to hear more about your organization and cause.

To download your copy, just click on the cover or on the link below. Please let us know what you think. Feel free to send me any feedback or post a comment below.

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