Written by Caroline, PAB’S Teen Ambassador
Give to the Max Day is November 15th!
The Minnesota Community Foundation, and an assortment of Minnesota nonprofits, started Give to the Max Day (GTMD) to inspire a collective day of giving for all Minnesotans. Since launching in 2009, GTMD has allowed over 300,000 donors to give almost $200 million to 10,000 nonprofit organizations and schools across the state.
Giving is two-fold, aiding those who receive the gift, as well as those who donate. Research has found that generosity prompts happiness, health and even more generosity!
Allina Health therapies donated their time and talent this fall to pack 102 PAB’S PACKS which were shipped to our children’s hospital partners in MN, IA, NY, CA and FL.
While common perception is that self-care results in happiness, studies have shown that caring for others increases mood more effectively. Giving releases endorphins, which relieve pain and induce pleasure. A commonly known result of exercise, endorphins also relieve stress and symptoms of depression and anxiety.
This stress relief has been tied to longevity. A study from the University of California, Berkeley found that elderly volunteers of two or more organizations were 44% more likely not to die over a five year period when compared to elderly who did not volunteer.
Sofia with her PAB’S PACK during a recent stay at Children’s MN.
Another benefit is an increased perception of community. The release of oxytocin, a sex hormone, has been linked to giving. Oxytocin is integral for the creation of healthy and sustainable relationships, whether romantic, friendly, or professional.
An increasing sense of community not only inspires others to give, but benefits volunteers personally which in turn impacts the rest of the world. Giving is contagious; all it takes is one person to start the virtuous cycle!
As GTMD and the holidays approach, we hope that you will spearhead this cycle for your community. Doing so will help the world, yourself, and inspire others to receive the same benefits.
On GTDM, PAB’S PACKS will be the charity of the month at the Minnesota Wild hockey game! From each ticket purchased, $10 will go to PAB’S. In addition, we are lucky enough to have a $10,000 match for this game so all donations will be double in their impact. A donation of $25 will send 1 PAB’S PACK to a sick teen in need to hear they are not alone.
As you consider the nonprofit who will receive your gift, please consider us. Aside from a hockey game, generosity prompts enormous mental, physical and emotional benefits. Your generosity towards PAB’S will help us put more packs on the backs of teens!
Donate to PAB’S PACKS for Give to the Max Day!
Buy Tickets to the Wild Game on November 15th!
A group of students from Blake Upper School shared a Friday afternoon with us in order to pack 100 PAB’S PACKS to be shipped to hospital partners nationwide.
We’ve got your back!
Love,
The PAB’S Team
