By By DAVID SALISBURY / Niles Daily Star
NILES -- Christmas is the time of giving, a time to place fellow men's needs before one's own.
Every year, large numbers of Americans donate time and resources to charities and organizations whose missions and purposes hold special meaning in their hearts.
Some feel a particular need to give some of the bounty they enjoy back to others at the holiday season, but many don't know how easy it is to do that.
At the same time, our community is home to a seemingly endless list of organizations and agencies who need donations, but don't know how to make the community aware of those needs.
That's where the Volunteer Center's Wish Book comes in.
The Wish Book is a free booklet that businesses, organizations and individuals can use to easily find a charity to donate to this holiday season.
Started in 1987, the Wish Book lists the missions and desired materials of numerous Michiana agencies.
The book lists what each agency needs most from the community and how to contact them.
The Wish Book then works to make the most of every possible source of aid by listing the perishable goods that can be purchased (canned goods, diapers, art supplies, etc.) as well as the durable goods that can be donated (furniture, appliances, clothes, etc.).
It's wonderful to be in the giving spirit during Christmas time, but Panozzo urges people to continue donating all year round.
To receive the 2004 Wish Book free, contact the Volunteer Center's Niles office at (269) 683-5464 or contact Deb at (269) 983-0912.
You may also visit online at www.volunteerswmi.org.