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	<title>Under Solen Media LLC &#187; Non-profits</title>
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		<title>Friday Faves: Mashups, Free-Flowing Rivers, Dancing, Wild Places + Really Good Friends</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/friday-faves/friday-faves-mashups-free-flowing-rivers-dancing-wild-places-really-good-friends/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/friday-faves/friday-faves-mashups-free-flowing-rivers-dancing-wild-places-really-good-friends/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:28:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Friday Faves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rivers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things We Like]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Video]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[5Point Film Festival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american rivers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Andy Maser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iLCP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Osprey Packs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wild love]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=2930</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We&#8217;ve been shooting out and catching a lot of love this week, so we&#8217;re going to go ahead and shout it out loud&#8230; Anna Brones. You get big high fives for quite a few reasons this week, but especially for becoming my go-to music maven, especially for mashups like this, and this&#8230; and this. Jenny Nichols. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Screen-shot-2011-12-09-at-2.34.25-PM.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2931" title="Screen shot 2011-12-09 at 2.34.25 PM" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Screen-shot-2011-12-09-at-2.34.25-PM.png" alt="" width="633" height="407" /></a><strong>We&#8217;ve been shooting out and catching a lot of love this week, so we&#8217;re going to go ahead and shout it out loud&#8230;</strong></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Anna Brones. You get big high fives for quite a few reasons this week, but especially for becoming my go-to music maven, especially for mashups like <a href="http://soundcloud.com/3lau/jagger-bomb">this</a>, and <a href="http://soundcloud.com/mdilelion-live-8/wolfgang-gartner-axwell-i-found-illmerica-tom-buster-bootleg">this</a>&#8230; and <a href="http://8tracks.com/dirtymexicanlemonade/b-l-ack-out-to-school">this</a>.</li>
<li>Jenny Nichols. Umm&#8230; <a href="http://wildloveproject.com/">Wild Love</a> is hitting full steam because of you, hot stuff. So excited to be working with this incredible + creative lady.</li>
<li><a href="http://americanrivers.org/">American Rivers</a>. I talk about free-flowing rivers a lot. That&#8217;s because I love them, and I get to work with inspiring world changers like the folks at AR.</li>
<li><a href="http://wildsalmon.org/">Save Our Wild Salmon</a>. Keep on fighting.</li>
<li><a href="http://andymaser.com/">Andy Maser</a>. Thank you.</li>
<li>‎&#8221;How much of your own heart would you protect?&#8221; — Dr. Sylvia Earle when talking about the ocean. Keep up the fabulous work, <a href="http://www.ilcp.com/">iLCP</a>.</li>
<li>Rachel Meyer, Amber Valenti, Molly Downey + Meagan Nuchols. There are no words. You rock.</li>
<li>Big ups to Gareth, Sam, Courtney, Jeff and the entire <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/">Osprey Packs</a> family.</li>
<li>Justin Clifton. <a href="http://5pointfilm.org/">5Point</a> is going to be amazing. And thank you for posting this video today&#8230; gives us all something to aspire to.</li>
</ul>
<p><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30619461?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" frameborder="0" width="400" height="225"></iframe></p>
<p>Happy Friday!</p>
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		<title>CHEERS! We Drink to That (YOU)!</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/outdoors/adventure/cheers-we-drink-to-thatyou/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/outdoors/adventure/cheers-we-drink-to-thatyou/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:50:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>whitney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Epicocity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Friday Faves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rivers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Salmon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things We Like]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[23 feet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[5Point Film Festival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brick+mortar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Epic Wheel Works]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Epicocity Project]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[forge motion pictures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gratitude]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[innate gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[one percent for the planet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Osprey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patagonia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Save Our Wild Salmon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[water for people]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=2799</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; I saw a post from a friend on Facebook as the news spread of Steve Jobs&#8217; death and all that it said was &#8220;iSad&#8221;.  This simple and clever post made me laugh while the rest of the world was/is mourning the passing of an exceptional thinker. From this laughter came deep gratitude for all [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div id="attachment_2809" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 190px"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMG_01771.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2809 " title="we heart you" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMG_01771-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="270" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Love from under solen</p></div>
<p>I saw a post from a friend on Facebook as the news spread of Steve Jobs&#8217; death and all that it said was &#8220;iSad&#8221;.  This simple and clever post made me laugh while the rest of the world was/is mourning the passing of an exceptional thinker. From this laughter came deep gratitude for all of the people that are in our lives and who fill it consistently with smiles, hope and grace.</p>
<p>I will borrow Steve Jobs words and Rihanna&#8217;s song (to be played extremely loud &#8212; don&#8217;t be ashamed) as we raise our glasses to YOU as we venture into another beautiful weekend:</p>
<p>&#8220;<strong>Here&#8217;s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes&#8230;</strong> the ones who see things differently — they&#8217;re not fond of rules&#8230; you can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can&#8217;t do is ignore them because they change things&#8230; they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because <strong>the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.</strong>&#8221;  — Steve Jobs</p>
<p><object width="500" height="281"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZR0v0i63PQ4?version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZR0v0i63PQ4?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="500" height="281" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Thank you to the brands who carefully select and build products that truly stand for something and better our world in some small or large way.</strong> Cheers to the musicians and filmmakers who bare their soul each and every time a microphone or camera covers their face. Thank you to the non-profits who exist out of pure passion for something that needs to be believed in. Cheers to the silent leaders that fill our world, I trust that your voices will be heard in those times of need.</p>
<p>We honor and send high fives out to you ALL!  HAPPY FRIDAY and we hope that you ROCK OUT HARD THIS WEEKEND!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Friday Faves: Celebrating the Little (and Huge) Wins</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/friday-faves/friday-faves-celebrating-the-little-and-huge-wins/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/friday-faves/friday-faves-celebrating-the-little-and-huge-wins/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Sep 2011 20:20:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Friday Faves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rivers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Salmon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things We Like]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Video]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american rivers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american whitewater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[andy maser films]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[conservation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[elwha dam removal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patagonia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=2757</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[“This is just breathtaking for me. This is not only an historic moment, but it&#8217;s going to lead to historic moments elsewhere across the country.” —Michael Connor, commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on removing two dams on the Elwha River. I took the leap into my first nonprofit gig with a salmon group [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/cut.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2758" title="cut" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/cut.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="419" /></a></p>
<blockquote><p><strong>“This is just breathtaking for me. This is not only an historic moment, but it&#8217;s going to lead to historic moments elsewhere across the country.”</strong> —Michael Connor, commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on removing two dams on the Elwha River.</p></blockquote>
<p>I took the leap into my first nonprofit gig with a <a href="http://www.n-sea.org/">salmon group</a> in Bellingham, Washington. After getting dirty at a few work parties, teaching kids about rivers and seeing the first first run of salmon coming home&#8230; it didn&#8217;t take long — I was hooked. <strong>With conservation it&#8217;s all about winning — because winning means we&#8217;re making this world a better place.</strong> Oftentimes, we get so caught up in the seemingly impossible state of affairs — climate change and species extinction to name a few — that we can&#8217;t even see the little and big wins happening every day.</p>
<p>Last week, I was fortunate enough to be a part of an incredible posse of movers and shakers at the Patagonia <a href="http://www.patagonia.com/us/patagonia.go?assetid=15372">Tools Conference for Grassroots Activists</a>. After meeting dozens of inspiring people fighting to protect a piece of this world, it was hard not to be motivated and energized about the work we all do. We spent a lot of time talking about celebrating the little wins, especially when you have a tough road to your final big win. The conference could not have happened at a better time because that same weekend crews began work on the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/22/opinion/the-return-of-the-elwha-river.html?_r=2">largest river restoration project in history</a> — removing two dams on the Elwha River. BOOM! That is no small feat. That is a huge win.</p>
<div id="attachment_2759" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 510px"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Elwha-Dam-Chunks.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-2759" title="Elwha Dam Chunks" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Elwha-Dam-Chunks.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="250" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Thanks to Amy Kober of American Rivers for dropping off two chunks of Elwha dam. I&#39;ve never been so happy to hold a piece of concrete in my hand.</p></div>
<p><strong>What we as eco warriors need to remember that every win, large or small is part of a larger movement. </strong>Whether you live in the Northwest or not, whether you have been part of this fight or not — this victory is your to celebrate. <strong>With every win, we get stronger, smarter and more energized. </strong>So, this Friday it&#8217;s time to celebrate this huge win&#8230; we&#8217;ve got more on the way.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28522390" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen allowFullScreen></iframe></p>
<p>Happy Friday!</p>
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		<title>Prove That Travel Can Change the World: Donate to Passports With Purpose</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/prove-that-travel-can-change-the-world-donate-to-passports-with-purpose/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/prove-that-travel-can-change-the-world-donate-to-passports-with-purpose/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Nov 2010 21:55:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Passports With Purpose]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=2105</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It&#8217;s no secret at Under Solen that we believe in the value of travel. Not only because of the personal change that it often brings, but the positive impacts that it can have on communities around the world. That&#8217;s why we&#8217;re very excited to take part again in Passports With Purpose. In its third year, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/elephant-crossing.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2107" title="elephant crossing" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/elephant-crossing.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>It&#8217;s no secret at Under Solen that we believe in the value of travel. Not only because of the personal change that it often brings, but the positive impacts that it can have on communities around the world. That&#8217;s why we&#8217;re very excited to take part again in <a href="http://www.passportswithpurpose.com/">Passports With Purpose</a>.</p>
<p>In its third year, PWP is built on the idea that “travel can change the world.” (We couldn&#8217;t agree more!) For the last two years, its founders and a whole lot of travel bloggers have put together their efforts to raise money for a good cause. Last year the initiative raised over $30,000 and built a school in rural Cambodia. This year they’re raising money for <a href="http://www.lafti.net/">LAFTI</a>, an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the Dalit (untouchable) population in India. Raising $50,000 will allow LAFTI to build a whole village of homes.</p>
<p>So seriously, as you start to think about things to buy this holiday season, consider <a href="http://www.passportswithpurpose.com/donate/">putting your money to a good cause</a>. Society and the planet will thank you.</p>
<p><strong>How to take part: </strong><br />
For each $10 donation that you make to <a href="http://www.lafti.net/">LAFTI</a> (which means it&#8217;s tax deductible!), you will will be entered in the giveaway(s) of your choice. All proceeds go directly to LAFTI. Check out all of the prizes up for grabs <a href="http://www.passportswithpurpose.com/donate/">here</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Vector22_brown.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-2106 alignright" title="Vector22_brown" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Vector22_brown.jpg" alt="" width="245" height="368" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What you can win:</strong></p>
<p>There are lots of raffle prizes available, and we’re happy to host a rocking <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/">Osprey Packs</a> <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/Packs/VectorSeries">Vector 22</a>. We&#8217;ll tell you from personal experience that this rolling bag is a must have; it fits a ton AND it&#8217;s TSA carry on size. Plus who doesn&#8217;t love the good people at Osprey?</p>
<p>So hop on over to the <a href="http://www.passportswithpurpose.com/">Passports With Purpose</a> site and get to <a href="http://www.passportswithpurpose.com/donate/">donating</a>!</p>
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		<title>Adventurous Women Support Africa: 3 Peaks 3 Weeks</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/adventurous-women-support-africa-3-peaks-3-weeks/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/adventurous-women-support-africa-3-peaks-3-weeks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:21:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Interview]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3 Peaks 3 Weeks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[climbing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[international development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[women]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=1738</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We recently learned about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks, an annual all-female climbing event that raises money and awareness for key issues facing Africa, and we were immediately intrigued. Bringing women from around the world together to summit Mt. Kenya, Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro, 3 Peaks 3 Weeks is certainly a combination of adventure, inspiration [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/3-peaks-3-weeks.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1740" title="3 peaks 3 weeks" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/3-peaks-3-weeks.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="240" /></a></p>
<p>We recently learned about<a href="http://www.3peaks3weeks.org/"> 3 Peaks 3 Weeks</a>, an annual all-female climbing event that raises money and awareness for key issues facing Africa, and we were immediately intrigued. Bringing women from around the world together to summit Mt. Kenya, Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro, 3 Peaks 3 Weeks is certainly a combination of adventure, inspiration and positive change. We caught up with one of the participants, Chris Kassar (who&#8217;s also part of our favorite <a href="http://www.rioslibres.com/">Rios Libres</a>) to learn more about this woman-powered initiative and how it&#8217;s bringing real change to Africa.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/kris.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1739" title="kris" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/kris.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="175" /></a>Tell us a little bit about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks</strong></p>
<p>In January 2011 (which is fast approaching!), I will join a team of 11 ordinary women from around the world as we attempt to summit 3 of Africa&#8217;s highest peaks (Mt. Kenya, Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro) in just 3 weeks!  Our aim is to raise money and awareness to address 3 peak issues currently threatening Africa: environment, education and health. In between each climb we&#8217;ll spend time with the African organizations that 3 Peaks 3 Weeks supports so we can see where each dollar we have raised is already helping to make a difference.</p>
<p><strong>How have you been training for the event? </strong></p>
<p>I haven’t had to change much in my life to train since I’ve always spent a majority of my free time running around outside. However, I’m aware that this is going to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done so I’m definitely ramping up my usual efforts.</p>
<p>Ironically, I was in the middle of trekking in the Himalaya when I found out that I was chosen to be part of the 3 Peaks 3 Weeks team for 201. I had just been to Everest Base Camp that very day. So…I guess my training was already well under way since I spent the majority of 2 months in Nepal hiking with a heavy pack over rough terrain at pretty high altitude.</p>
<p>At home here in Flagstaff, I get out into the mountains as much as I can and however I can – skis, snowshoes, running shoes, mountain bike, hiking boots. I am also currently spending a lot of time on a road bike and in the water since I am training for my first triathlon. I’m really new  to swimming and biking so this is a good challenge. My success on these climbs is going to be just as dependent on my mental fitness as my physical fitness so yoga, meditation and visualization are an important part of preparing for Africa, as well. Breathing at altitude can be so hard, but yoga and meditation have made this a lot easier for me.</p>
<p>To get some real life climbing practice and altitude exposure, my friend  Julie and I are going to do a “3 Peaks 3 Days Challenge.” So,  next week we are heading to Colorado for 5 or 6 days of backpacking during which we will summit  three 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet)  in 3 days.</p>
<p><strong>Why do you think going on an all-women expedition is so powerful? </strong></p>
<p>With each passing year, I have come to value the brilliant, passionate, tough, sweet, bold women in my life more and more. Sisterhood (both genetic and chosen) is one of the most powerful bonds that I have ever encountered. It’s hard to explain in words, but something happens when “sisters” tackle a challenge together – things get done, fun is had, passion oozes and confidence grows. Our power on this expedition will come from the fact that we are united around a common goal. Our ability to support each other, work as a team and rise to the challenge is critical if we are to accomplish what we have set out to achieve.</p>
<p>Aside from its impact on those of us participating, I think part of the power of  an all-women expedition comes when others witness it. Even though it is 2010, I still think it is imperative for the rest of the world to see women demonstrating their strength, courage, bravery and determination.</p>
<p><strong>The goal of the expedition is to raise awareness of three peak issues facing Africa: Environment, education and health. How do the three go hand in hand and how does supporting one support the others?</strong></p>
<p>These are the largest issues affecting East Africa today and I believe that addressing all 3 of them is critical for the future of the people and lands of Africa because doing so is key to reducing the impacts of poverty. Simply put, providing someone with basic healthcare and education can provide them with an entire future. And because East African communities are typically incredibly dependent on their surrounding environment, it is also imperative to conserve wildlands while benefiting the surrounding communities.</p>
<p>Halting environmental degradation, providing education for more children and improving health care are going to become more and more important as populations continue to rise and development progresses.  These are tangible and hopeful issues to focus on because individuals and groups can have a concrete impact on them; with some dedication and effort a person can create positive change in these arenas by taking action and accountability, whereas other issues – i.e., corruption &#8211; would be more difficult to target directly.</p>
<p><strong>There are a lot of groups that have launched in the past few years that focus solely on women&#8217;s issues. In a place like Africa, what do you think are the benefits of this? </strong></p>
<p>Actually, all 3 organizations we support do not only focus on women or women’s issues. In some cases there are certain projects that do, but overall these organizations serve a broad range of people who need help. Nonetheless, those groups that focus solely on women’s issues are extremely important. Because of the central role that women hold within communities, they are often the key to helping families and villages out of poverty.</p>
<p><strong>All of the money that you raise goes straight to Africa, while you&#8217;re responsible for your expedition costs (~$10,000). That&#8217;s a lot of money. Why do you feel strongly about putting that amount of your personal money into this kind of travel? </strong></p>
<p>In the past year I spent a good deal of time in Nepal, Southeast Asia and South America. As is always the case while traveling, I was reminded of how lucky I have been throughout my life and how much I have to offer to this world as a result of where I was born and the opportunities I&#8217;ve been given.</p>
<p>Traveling reinforced my gratitude for simple things like freedom, health, family, peace, access to education, clean drinking water, financial security and physical safety. These are things I often take for granted, yet each day of my journey I was reminded that there are millions of people throughout the world who do not have the same luxury.  And so, the financial challenges are outweighed by my desire to use my talents and tenacity to help this amazing planet and those who don&#8217;t have as much as I do.</p>
<p><strong>Besides supporting this expedition, what&#8217;s one thing that people can do to have a positive impact on these issues facing Africa? </strong></p>
<p>Great question because it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by big problems in a continent  that can feel so far away….It’s a tough one because there is no “quick fix.” Direct handouts may have their place in emergency situations, but supporting those kinds of programs in East Africa is like putting a Band-Aid on a wound that really needs surgery.  So, I’d suggest that people learn as much as they can about the situation and support initiatives, programs, groups and individuals that empower people to take control of their own future; those that follow along with this idea: “give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime.”</p>
<p>That’s the amazing thing about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks – <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/chriskassar">all of the money I raise</a> goes to sustainable projects that enable individuals and communities to be accountable for their own success over the long-term.</p>
<p><strong>This trip and cause is pretty inspirational. What inspires you on a daily basis?</strong></p>
<p>Nature – She inspires me because she is simultaneously strong, graceful, beautiful, powerful, loving and humbling.</p>
<p>My family – My mom and dad, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins are each an inspiration in their own way, but they share a common thread which also inspires me: they all sure know how to give love! And even though they may worry about me because of the crazy way I’ve chosen to live my life, they support me and believe in me no matter what.</p>
<p>My 5 year old friend Finley who just had open heart surgery and his parents – They have inspired me to be fearless and to act fearlessly.</p>
<p>People who work to make their dreams a reality regardless of the associated challenges.</p>
<p>The rare beings who are truly honest with themselves and with others.</p>
<p><em>Chris will be heading to Africa in January. To help support the cause of 3 Peaks 3 Weeks, you can donate by clicking <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/chriskassar">here</a>. </em></p>
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		<title>Epic Wheel Works Raises $950 for Bicycle Transportation Alliance&#8230; And Throws a Hell of a Party</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010 16:19:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Things We Like]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bicycle Transportation Alliance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bicycles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Epic Wheel Works]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fundraiser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Live the Revolution]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[party]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[We love parties, especially parties that benefit awesome causes. At Epic Wheel Works&#8217; Live the Revolution party last week, $950 was raised for Portland&#8217;s Bicycle Transportation Alliance. There were a lot of people that came together to make that happen, and they all get big thank yous here. Want to see just how fun raising [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic-Photo-Booth.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1610" title="Epic Photo Booth" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic-Photo-Booth.jpg" alt="" width="468" height="343" /></a></p>
<p>We love parties, especially parties that benefit awesome causes. At <a href="http://www.epicwheelworks.com">Epic Wheel Works&#8217;</a> Live the Revolution party last week, $950 was raised for Portland&#8217;s <a href="http://bta4bikes.org/">Bicycle Transportation Alliance</a>. There were a lot of people that came together to make that happen, and they all get big thank yous <a href="http://www.epicwheelworks.com/blog/epic/living-the-revolution-and-raising-money-to-support-kids-on-bikes/89/">here</a>.</p>
<p>Want to see just how fun raising money can be? Check out these fun photos and video from the evening.</p>

<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-photo-booth/' title='Epic Photo Booth'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic-Photo-Booth-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic Photo Booth" title="Epic Photo Booth" /></a>
<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-raffle-gear/' title='Epic.raffle.gear'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic.raffle.gear_-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic.raffle.gear" title="Epic.raffle.gear" /></a>
<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-tire-changing/' title='Epic.tire.changing'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic.tire_.changing-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic.tire.changing" title="Epic.tire.changing" /></a>
<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-tshirts/' title='Epic.tshirts'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic.tshirts-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic.tshirts" title="Epic.tshirts" /></a>
<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-cheering/' title='Epic.cheering'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic.cheering-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic.cheering" title="Epic.cheering" /></a>
<a href='http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/things-we-like/events-contests/epic-wheel-works-raises-950-for-bicycle-transportation-alliance-and-throws-a-hell-of-a-party/attachment/epic-winner/' title='Epic.winner'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Epic.winner-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Epic.winner" title="Epic.winner" /></a>

<p><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/11859502" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
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		<title>Profile on Danielle Brigida, Social Media Outreach Coordinator for National Wildlife Federation</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/profile-on-danielle-brigida-social-media-outreach-coordinator-for-national-wildlife-federation/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/profile-on-danielle-brigida-social-media-outreach-coordinator-for-national-wildlife-federation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:51:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Media]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Profiles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Danielle Brigida]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Interview]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national wildlife federation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NWF]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[As part of our ongoing profiles section, we’re taking a look at people making a difference in the world of new media and are harnessing the power of web 2.0 to make positive change. Today we&#8217;re talking to Danielle Brigida, Social Media Outreach Coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation. In the new media sphere, NWF [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/nwf.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-1407 aligncenter" title="nwf" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/nwf.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="400" /></a></p>
<p><em>As part of our ongoing profiles section, we’re taking a look at people  making a difference in the world of new media and are harnessing the  power of web 2.0 to make positive change.</em></p>
<p>Today we&#8217;re talking to Danielle Brigida, Social Media Outreach Coordinator for the <a href="http://nwf.org/">National Wildlife Federation</a>. In the new media sphere, NWF has had a significant presence, pushing the envelope in how the organization approaches members and generates awareness of its campaigns. Everywhere you turn on the web, NWF seems to be there, whether it&#8217;s with a new video, a photo contest or simply just updates on what we all can do to enjoy nature, and Brigida is certainly one of the organization&#8217;s new media driving forces. She&#8217;s well respected in the world of green new media and last year was named one of the top <a href="http://mashable.com/2009/06/15/twitter-environmentalists/">75 Environmentalists to Follow</a> by Mashable. She has also spoken at a variety of new media events including South by Southwest.</p>
<p>We caught up with her to learn more about the ins and outs of her job and how she thinks new media is changing the layout of nonprofits.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/danielle-brigida.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1406" title="danielle brigida" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/danielle-brigida.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="344" /></a>How long have you been working as the Social Media Outreach Coordinator for NWF? How did you land the gig?</strong></p>
<p>I started out as a grassroots assistant, doing data entry and trying to think of ways to engage activists. One of my tasks was maintaining the National Wildlife Federation&#8217;s MySpace page, and I was given the freedom to experiment with engaging people on that site and any others I could find. Since I was the Ecology Club President at my college, I knew that Facebook was another great way to connect with people, so I started testing out profiles, groups and pages for NWF. I&#8217;ve never looked back.</p>
<p>I&#8217;m always looking for new ways to engage people with any social site I can find. The more I was able to prove the value of having NWF&#8217;s brand represented online in these diverse ways, the more I was able to incorporate my after-hours experimentation into my current job description. I created this role for myself, and it wasn&#8217;t easy. I also can&#8217;t say that I&#8217;m done molding it to be what I know it has the potential to be. I&#8217;m lucky because the National Wildlife Federation does a great job of helping its employees explore their interests. Mine just happened to be social media from the start, and for the past 3 1/2 years I&#8217;ve been learning all that I can.</p>
<p><strong>NWF certainly has a big social media presence, what are some main components of your social media outreach program?</strong></p>
<p>I live by the &#8220;social media is for everyone&#8221; motto. That&#8217;s not to say we&#8217;ll all use the same tools in the same ways, but I think learning from life experiences (and that includes online) is incredibly important. When one of my colleagues comes to me interested in trying out social media, I help them focus in on what they want to do with their program, what audience they want to engage, and what their capacity is—knowing these answers helps me determine what sites they should be on.</p>
<p>I may be the only person with &#8220;social media&#8221; in my job title, but I&#8217;ve been able to persuade a good number of my coworkers to open their browsers and find out how their subject area is talked about on social networks. It almost instantly sells them on the value of participating, because they see a new world at their fingertips: instant focus groups, new people to connect with, people who might help share our message, people interested in helping out in any way they can, etc.</p>
<p>By empowering our subject-matter experts to communicate to the niche audiences interested in their subject, NWF as a whole benefits, because we are able to connect with more gardeners, Ranger Rick readers, political wonks, educators, parents, college students, etc. than anything I could offer up from a single NWF account.</p>
<p>Some of our staff may just lurk, some people may comment here and there, and my star pupils see the benefit of providing as much value in return to their audiences as they can. I&#8217;m seeing that no matter how much you engage, there is always something to gain from being present online.</p>
<p><strong>What have been some of your most successful new media campaigns?</strong><br />
I’m not sure I would consider my success in the typical sense. We’ve definitely had some successful experiments, but the biggest overall success is that we&#8217;ve changed the way many of us work. For example, with our campaign to get kids outside, we&#8217;ve met many passionate parents online. This has helped us create better content, make more meaningful relationships and reach people we normally would not have reached.</p>
<p>We have more than 30 mommy bloggers who are our friends and help us assess our campaigns. We have used crowd sourcing to gather knowledge and interest around gardening stories and we’ve really just been using social media to lower the ladder of engagement so we can include more people and get more people engaged.</p>
<p>One campaign that did take us by surprise was our Endangered Species Day campaign. I wrote a blog post about how everyone knows of animals outside of the U.S. like the panda or the tiger, but very few could list endangered species in their own backyard. So we asked each person to pick a species and tweet all day about that species! It was more engaging then we EVER could have dreamed. We’re hoping to recreate the same experience and get people thinking locally when it comes to wildlife.</p>
<p>I truly believe as long as your learn something you haven’t failed.</p>
<p><strong>What has social media allowed NWF to do that it couldn&#8217;t do before?</strong></p>
<p>Social media allows us to truly connect with members. We are a big organization and we&#8217;re lucky to have so many supporters. I think our large size hasn&#8217;t always made it possible to connect with our base in the past. Thankfully, social media lets us talk to long time supporters from all over the world and engage with them daily&#8211;it&#8217;s very inspiring.</p>
<p><strong>Not everyone has jumped on the new media bandwagon, how do you reach out to people that maybe aren&#8217;t used to getting news and information via new media channels like blogging?</strong></p>
<p>Social media can be intimidating, and in some cases the only cure is actually trying it out. I found that once people play with it, they either love it or struggle with it and it may take a few more attempts to really get them to use it.  Either way, I usually stress that some of the best users don’t have an “Aha moment” right away (you know, the moment you realize the value and want to explore it more).  I love it when people come to me, to learn the tools because they generally listen more, and are more open to testing things out. I am passionate about connecting with people and I find that anyone who is interested in that will be interested in social media, for some though-it’s a series of baby steps. And that’s ok!</p>
<p><strong>Why do you think new media is an effective tool for non-profits?</strong></p>
<p>I think nonprofits represent passionate groups of people trying to make change. Social media allows for great organizing, information sharing and a perfect place to feed your passion (whatever it may be). With nonprofits, they may not always have the money for fancy tools, but with passion and content, social media can really be an asset to even the most understaffed nonprofit. I&#8217;m constantly impressed with the way nonprofits use social media. It&#8217;s invigorating!</p>
<p><strong>How do you think new media is helping to create positive change?</strong></p>
<p>There are so many benefits that we can garner from crowd sourcing and expanding our networks as well as learning and information sharing. I look at social media as a new way to do old business, and because of that I see positive change happening throughout the different communities. The neat thing about the tools is that they are simple enough to serve a number of different change initiatives at once. Look at Twitter, Twitter has successfully saved lives through its immediate response but it also serves as a collective knowledge pool. The way social media affects change is both instantly and over time. We’re learning, we’re growing and best of all, we’re communicating and I think that’s where social media can really create positive change.</p>
<p><strong>Where do you get your news from?</strong></p>
<p>Tons of RSS feeds and twitter of course. I read my RSS feeds like the paper every morning and track twitter throughout the day. Staying a top of our mentions and current events helps me be relevant to our members and social media friends.</p>
<p><strong>What are 3 blogs that we should all be reading?</strong></p>
<p>If you&#8217;re talking social media blogs, I think there are many!</p>
<p>My favorites are:<br />
<a href="http://beth.typepad.com/">Beth.typepad.com</a><br />
<a href="http://kdpaine.blogs.com/">Kdpaine&#8217;s measurement blog</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nonprofitmarketingguide.com/blog/">Kivi&#8217;s marketing blog</a> and many more</p>
<p>You can check out the blogroll on<br />
<a href="http://thenetnaturalist.wordpress.com/">www.thenetnaturalist.wordpress.com</a> for a few of my green pals too!</p>
<p><strong>What are your main tips for people/organizations that want to be more effective in using social and new media?</strong></p>
<p>Be brave and take the leap! Do social media for a few minutes a day or whatever you can spare. Interact with people, join conversations and add meaning, be yourself, ask questions, and push yourself to learn more every time you&#8217;re on the site. I have to say that &#8220;failing&#8221; isn&#8217;t going to happen unless you miss out on an opportunity to learn.</p>
<p><strong>Thanks!</strong></p>
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		<title>To Russia With Love: A Benefit Casino Night for Kamchatka Project</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/outdoors/adventure/to-russia-with-love-a-benefit-casino-night-for-kamchatka-project/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/outdoors/adventure/to-russia-with-love-a-benefit-casino-night-for-kamchatka-project/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:03:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Salmon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[conservation]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[fundraiser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kamchatka Project]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Keen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Portland]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.com/?p=1126</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have a soft spot for James Bond movies? Never had the chance to channel your inner spy? Now is the time! To raise money for their upcoming expedition, the Kamchatka Project is throwing one fancy fundraiser party. It&#8217;s an evening of gambling, salmon and espionage, with great door prizes and sweet gear on raffle. All [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Bond.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1148" title="Bond" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Bond.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a></p>
<p>Have a soft spot for James Bond movies? Never had the chance to channel your inner spy? Now is the time!</p>
<p><a href="http://kamchatkaproject.eventbrite.com/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1132" title="To Russia With Love" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/To-Russia-With-Love.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="277" /></a>To raise money for their upcoming expedition, the <a href="http://www.kamchatkaproject.org">Kamchatka Project</a> is throwing one fancy fundraiser party. It&#8217;s an evening of <strong>gambling, salmon and espionage</strong>, with great door prizes and sweet gear on raffle. All the action happens March 13, 2010 and you&#8217;ll want to get your tickets now; they&#8217;re $35 in advance and get you complimentary drinks, hors d&#8217;oeuvres and an opening stack of chips for the casino. Buy them <a href="http://kamchatkaproject.eventbrite.com/">here</a>. And the best part? Ticket proceeds go to funding the Kamchatka Project, which happens to be a 501(c)3 &#8212; your <strong>tickets are 100% tax deductible</strong>!</p>
<p><strong>Where:</strong> Keen Headquarters</p>
<p>926 NW 13th Ave, PDX</p>
<p><strong>When:</strong> Saturday March 13, 2010</p>
<p><strong>Attire</strong>: Formal, or dress as your favorite 007 character. Best two costumes win door prizes!</p>
<p>See the full invite <a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/russia-with-love-print-2.pdf">here</a>.</p>
<p><em>All proceeds support the efforts of The Kamchatka Project to raise awareness about salmon conservation though exploration.</em></p>
<p>[Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/brocco_lee/168025355/">Brocco Lee</a>]</p>
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		<title>Businesses Step Up To Help Haiti</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/businesses-step-up-to-help-haiti/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/businesses-step-up-to-help-haiti/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>undersolenmedia</dc:creator>
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		<category><![CDATA[earthquake]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[giving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Haiti]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Media]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.wordpress.com/?p=715</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[An earthquake, registering 7.0 on the Richter Scale, rocked the island of Haiti last week. Within 24 hours of the disaster, aid organizations, individuals and businesses responded in full force. And now, a week later, the outpouring of support isn&#8217;t waning. With more than $2.5 million donated via text message to relief organizations working in [...]]]></description>
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<div id="attachment_782" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 554px"><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/haiti-201001-cnelson-00082.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-782" title="haiti-201001-cnelson-0008" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/haiti-201001-cnelson-00082.jpg" alt="" width="544" height="280" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Photo: Cassandra Nelson/Mercy Corps</p></div>
<p></span></address>
<p>An earthquake, registering 7.0 on the Richter Scale, rocked the island of Haiti last week. Within 24 hours of the disaster, aid organizations, individuals and businesses responded in full force. And now, a week later, the outpouring of support isn&#8217;t waning. <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=9604260">With more than $2.5 million donated via text message to relief organizations working in Haiti</a>, social media networks have been abuzz with news and action alerts, so we compiled a list of several businesses in our community that have stepped it up to help Haiti.</p>
<blockquote><p><strong>Mountain Hardwear </strong>is <a href="http://blog.mountainhardwear.com/2010/01/haiti_earthquake_response_-_co.html">organizing a collection drive for tents and sleeping bags (or money to purchase the same and help with shipping) to aid the tens of thousands of displaced and injured people in Haiti. </a>Along with clean water, food and medical supplies, temporary shelter is desperately needed. Used tents as long as they are functional, and lightweight sleeping bags are fine and of course new tents and sleeping bags from any of our outdoor industry friends would be ideal.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-20743-Medford-Wine-Examiner~y2010m1d18-Oregon-wineries-give-to-Haiti-watch-for-updates-here"><strong>Oregon Wineries</strong> are donating, putting on special events to raise money and helping to spread the word via their social media channels.</a></p>
<p>[vimeo=http://vimeo.com/8771631]</p>
<p><a href="http://www.exofficio.com/content/aboutexo/haiti-donations.htm"><strong>ExOfficio</strong></a> employees sorted through customer returns, overstock and unsold inventory to supply <strong><a href="http://www.worldconcern.org/">World Concern</a> </strong>with clothing for earthquake victims. Altogether, ExOfficio donated nine pallets or an estimated $429,000 worth of product. Four pallets will be immediately shipped to Haiti, along with food, water, and medical supplies.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#/kleankanteen?ref=search&amp;sid=646180590.3451752403..1"><strong>Klean Kanteen</strong> donated 4,500 water bottles to be used at water treatment and desalination sites.</a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.mercycorps.org/fundraising/lizardlounge">The Lizard Lounge</a> </strong>in Portland, Ore. donated 10% of all profits from their January sale over the weekend to <a href="http://www.mercycorps.org/haiti"><strong>MercyCorps</strong> </a>to help with relief efforts.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Portland-OR/Portland-Pedal-Power-LLC/81372914587?v=info&amp;ref=nf#/pages/Portland-OR/Portland-Pedal-Power-LLC/81372914587?v=wall&amp;ref=nf"><strong>Portland Pedal Power</strong></a>, a company dedicated to human powered transportation of products in downtown Portland, donated all of their tips in the days following the quake to MercyCorps&#8217; relief efforts.</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>This incredible response in a time of crisis is humbling, and needed. But remember, many countries like Haiti need our support on a regular basis, so let this week be your jumping off point to lead a more mindful life and give when you can to those who need it.</strong></p>
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		<title>OR Winter 2010: Score Cool Gear by Donating Dollars</title>
		<link>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/or-winter-2010-score-cool-gear-by-donating-dollars/</link>
		<comments>http://undersolenmedia.com/blog/causes-blog/or-winter-2010-score-cool-gear-by-donating-dollars/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:39:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>undersolenmedia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Non-profits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things We Like]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Black Diamond]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brooks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camelbak]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canada Goose]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Columbia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dansko]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eagle Creek]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Falcon Guides]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grabber]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Horny Toad]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Montrail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nemo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ORWinter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Osprey]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Ruff Wear]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://undersolenmedia.wordpress.com/?p=680</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In our ongoing Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2010 coverage, we already rounded up a list of happy hours, but what we like even better than free beer is buying awesome gear and having your money go to a good cause. So here&#8217;s a list of cool swag you can score by donating money to super [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/gear-for-or.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-705" title="gear for or" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/gear-for-or.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="204" /></a></p>
<p>In our ongoing <a href="http://www.outdoorretailer.com/winter_market/">Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2010</a> coverage, we already rounded up a list of happy hours, but what we like even better than free beer is <strong>buying awesome gear and having your money go to a good cause</strong>. So here&#8217;s a list of cool swag you can score by donating money to super cool non-profits and causes; you&#8217;ll have new gear to show off at home and feel good about supporting positive change&#8230; the <strong>ultimate for an eco warrior gear head</strong>!</p>
<p><span id="more-680"></span></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/keen_logo1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-683" title="keen_logo1" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/keen_logo1.jpg?w=300" alt="" width="300" height="107" /></a>KEEN Targhee Boots</strong></p>
<p>Score a pair of $40 <a href="http://keenfootwear.com/">Keen</a> Targhee IIs for yourself and 100% of the proceeds will go to the <a href="http://www.waterkeeper.org/">Waterkeeper Alliance</a>.</p>
<p><strong>When:</strong> Friday January 22nd, 4-6pm</p>
<p><strong>Where:</strong> Keen, Booth #32149</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/falcon-guides.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-684" title="falcon guides" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/falcon-guides.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="183" /></a>FalconGuides’ Best Easy Day Hikes books + National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps</strong></p>
<p>FalconGuides is proud to announce a new alliance with National Geographic Maps. As a result of this collaboration, two of the United States’ largest publishers of outdoor recreation information will offer hiking enthusiasts comprehensive packages featuring FalconGuides’ Best Easy Day Hikes books and National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps.</p>
<p>A portion of sales from the four initial packages in the Best Easy Day Hikes Book and Map Packs series will benefit the American Hiking Society.</p>
<p><strong>When:</strong> Friday January 22nd, 4-6pm</p>
<p><strong>Where:</strong> Falcon Guides, Booth #33035</p>
<p><strong>Suunto, Patagonia, Osprey, Dakine, Pistil Designs, Black Diamond, La Sportiva &amp; more</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/header.jpg"><img title="header" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/header.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="49" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.skiingthebackcountry.com/">SkiingtheBackcountry.com</a> is putting on a raffle in conjunction with OR and SIA to raise funds for Kirk Williams, one of the writers for the online magazine. Last November, Kirk was in a mountain biking accident and ended up with a serious spinal injury.  He&#8217;s currently an  incomplete quadriplegic, but there is hope that he will someday walk again! He is also working on regaining the use of his hands and forearms so that he can continue to pursue a career in photography. Needless to say, his medical expenses are going to be staggeringly high.  On average, someone Kirk&#8217;s age with a spinal cord injury will spend $1.5-2 MILLION of their own money on medical expenses that are not covered by insurance.  The team at SkiingtheBackcountry.com figured the best thing they could do was rally up the power of the outdoor and snowsports industry and raise as much money for Kirk as possible!</p>
<p>The raffle will kick off Wednesday and tickets will be able to be purchased via <a href="http://www.skiingthebackcountry.com/">SkiingtheBackcountry.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/calogo.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-685" title="calogo" src="http://undersolenmedia.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/calogo.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="68" /></a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Shoes, bags, bottles and beyond</strong></p>
<p>The granddaddy of OR swag is being sold by Conservation Alliance member companies, in fact there&#8217;s so much cool stuff that it&#8217;s too long to list here. You&#8217;ll find everything from <a href="http://montrail.com/">Montrail</a> shoes to a re-purposed <a href="http://www.nemoequipment.com/">NEMO</a> tote to <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/">Osprey </a>hydration packs, with a lot of companies giving 100% of proceeds to the Conservation Alliance. You&#8217;ve never put your money in a better place! Here&#8217;s all the info you need:</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.columbia.com/">Columbia</a>, Booth #28001</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Ravenice, Men’s and Women’s.</p>
<p><strong>Donation:</strong> 100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$40, MSRP $115</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Happy Hour, Thursday, January 21, 4:30-6pm</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://montrail.com/">Montrail</a>, Booth #26001</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Sabino Trail Shoe</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$35, MSRP $100</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>proceeds will be split between The Conservation Alliance and Conservation Alliance grantee The Wilderness Support Center</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Friday, January 22, 4-6pm</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/">Brooks</a>, Booth # 36123</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Brooks Cascadia 5.</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$50, MSRP $100</p>
<p><strong>Donation:</strong> 100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Thursday, January 21 – Friday, January 22, 11am-6pm each day</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.ruffwear.com/">Ruff Wear</a>, Booth # 33061</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Ruff Wear Sqwash dog toy</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$5, MSRP $9.99</p>
<p><strong>Donation:</strong> 100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.stanley-pmi.com/">Stanley</a>, Booth #21017</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Stanley eCycle Exchange Recycled &amp; Recyclable mug and bottle. Two limited Edition Nineteen 13 Flasks for Auction</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$10 for bottle/mug. Silent Auction for Flask</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Runs through the show and at Open Air Demo</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.timex.com/">Timex</a>, Booth # 35125</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>WS4 Watch</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$50, MSRP $200</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>50% of revenue will go directly to The Conservation Alliance. IF all 300 watches are sold, Timex will provide an additional donation to a Conservation Alliance grantee.</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Friday, January 22nd, 3-5pm.</p>
<p><strong>Additional notes: </strong>limited quantity available</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.camelbak.com/">CamelBak</a>, Booth # 15027</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>SnoBlast Pack, limited edition — embroidered with The Conservation Alliance logo!</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$30, MSRP $79.99</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show,</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.dansko.com/">Dansko</a>, Booth #18027</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Dansko Shoes for Women and Men</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$75, MSRP $120-140</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>$10 of each shoe sale will be donated to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.nemoequipment.com/">NEMO</a>, Booth #1011</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Ditto Tote, made of repurposed NEMO tent samples and manufacturing seconds.</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$15, MSRP $19.95</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% of the proceeds will benefit The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Available throughout the show</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/">Osprey</a>, Booth #8027</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Osprey Raptor 6 Hydration Pack</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$30, MSRP $79</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% of the proceeds will benefit The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Thursday, January 21, 3-6pm</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/default/locale/choose/">Black Diamond</a>, Booth #5027</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Ion Headlamp</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$10, MSRP $19.95</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% will benefit The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.eaglecreek.com">Eagle Creek</a>, Booth #22027</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>ES Cargo Duffle, medium size. The perfect bag for hauling gear through the rainforests of Borneo or valuable schwag home from OR.</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$25, MSRP $75</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% will benefit The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.canada-goose.com">Canada Goose</a>, Booth # 5045</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Merino Wool Beanie</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$20, MSRP $50</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>Thursday, January 21, 2 &#8211; 4pm</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.warmers.com/">Grabber, Inc</a>., Booth #132</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>20-pack Hand Warmers or 8-pair Toe Warmers</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$5, MSRP: $10 Hand / $15 Toe</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>100% to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>All Day January 23-24, 2010</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.hornytoad.com/">Horny Toad</a>, Booth #30051</strong></p>
<p><strong>Product: </strong>Men&#8217;s and Women&#8217;s Cashmoore fleece styles</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>$20-$40, MSRP $76-$110</p>
<p><strong>Donation: </strong>10% of the proceeds to The Conservation Alliance</p>
<p><strong>Hours: </strong>available throughout the show</p>
<p>Did we miss something? Leave a comment below or let us know via <a href="http://twitter.com/undersolen">Twitter</a>.</p>
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