Today was a very busy day for the Year of Giving blog due to Elizabeth Barr’s story that ran on AOL. I received over 100,000 hits and approximately 50,000 unique visitors to the site. In the last 10 hours I have received nearly 800 emails and comments, many of them incredibly inspiring. So many of you have shared how the Year of Giving and the people I have met have touched your lives. Thank you. Almost a hundred people today have pledged to give $10 to a stranger on the Worldwide Day of Giving (June 15th) and share their stories with us here. About a dozen people have vowed to start their own Year of Giving. Others have offered to help those on the Lend a Hand page, thank you! One gentleman even offered to help a woman who posted that she needed a computer by sending her a good used computer! This is what it is all about; watching the Year of Giving take on a life of its own.
All of that is terrific! There has been something that happened today that bothered me though. I am completely supportive of good intellectual debate and discussion, however some of the comments about Katy (Day 111) ripping up the $10 went too far in my opinion. After more than 20,000 views today, there were several slanderous comments against Katy that I feel are not in the spirit of the Year of Giving. One comment that I thought represented my feelings after reading the comments was by a poster that goes by the name Saw.
He who is without sin….cast the first stone. How is poor Katy going to feel when she reads all the unkind reviews of her action? Does she deserve such harsh judgment? How are the people leaving cruel comments any better than Katy? Aren’t they much more interested in that $10, than the pain they might cause her?
I agree with this statement completely. As a result of this I have temporarily closed the comments section for Day 111. There are more than 325 comments already on the subject and I think her decision has been thoroughly debated. I am not sure we can come up with an angle that hasn’t already been covered.
Back to Day 123. Last Friday I found Jen sitting in the grass in Dupont Circle. She was killing some time before she had to start her shift at a local restaurant. She said she was in a bit of a bad mood and thought that she would hang out in the park for a while and get herself in a better state of mind before clocking in.
Jen relaxing in Dupont Circle (Photo: Reed)
Originally from Pennsylvania, she was familiar with my hometown of Mechanicsburg. The twenty-something is a graduate of the George Washington University where she studied anthropology and dance. Wow…what a combo. What direction would I go if that was what my undergradudate degree was in? Well, she might have found herself in the same predicament as she has decided to go to grad school to study Latin American and Caribbean studies. I might be going out on a limb here, but that might be influenced by the fact that her fiancée is Brazilian!
Given Jen’s current financial situation, she has given more of her time than money to others. She has volunteered as an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor. She planned on volunteering two years with the Peace Corps but it looks like she won’t pursue that now that she is engaged.
I asked her what she was going to do with the $10. She said she would give it to someone else. “Maybe I will leave it as an extra tip for a waiter.” She agreed to comment here after she has given it away and share with us the fate of the $10.
Jen told me she was planning a trip to the west coast where she was going to drive the coastal highway from LA up to San Francisco. She hoped that someone reading my blog would have some good tips or links to good Websites to help her plan the route and things to do. So if you have any tips/suggestions for her, leave a comment here!
Want to know a weird coincidence…Jen knows several of my other recipients! My world is becoming smaller!!!
UPDATE [April 22, 2010]
I received the following email from Jen today and wanted to share with you:
I’ve been meaning to write you, just to give a little more feedback on what I thought/think about your project.
Honestly, it took a couple days for it to sink in. After I spoke with you, I went straight to work, worked a 7-hour shift, left, went home, slept a bit, then went back the next morning for a 15-hour double, so I honestly didn’t have time to think about it until Sunday. I was supposed to meet a friend for brunch, but she overslept, and I kinda needed some alone time, so I grabbed a book and took myself to brunch at Tonic. As I predicted, I ended up leaving the server an extra $10 on top of a normal tip.
It was funny – I felt like I had to get rid of the $10 as soon as possible. It wasn’t mine, and I had to get rid of it as soon as possible before I was tempted to keep it. Plus, being in the restaurant industry myself, I know how nice it is to feel like your time and work is appreciated when someone tips you a little extra. There were a lot of other ways I could have given away the $10 – donated it to a local charity or cause I believe in, used it to buy lunch for a homeless person, or something along those lines. I’m not really sure why I decided to give it away on the fashion I did – I guess it was just quick and easy, and I could (temporarily) brighten up someone else’s day.
Anyway, you’re trying to build community through inspiration. Stepping back, doesn’t it kinda suck that you have to give $10 a day in order to do that? Like, is that the only way to build community and inspire people? I mean, this whole thing isn’t about the money – it’s just the common thread with everyone you talk to.
All the same, if you had approached me in Dupont and just wanted to talk, I would have been more than happy to share…but probably would’ve just brushed off our interaction afterwards and never thought about it any further. You’re reaching out and giving back when you reached a juncture in your life where you should have been doing the opposite, and I think that’s a very powerful message.
Anyway, kudos on your work. I hope your project continues to grow, bring further insights to others as well as yourself, and, hopefully within the year, reach a grand final culmination. Please stop by my restaurant anytime you want to chat 🙂
Year of Giving 
Wait until you see Carmel and Monterey – soooooo beautiful! And I disagreed with what Katy did too, but I sure feel awful that people did all of that. Can you block or delete some comments if you want to Reed? It would be understandable if you did.
Lorelei, I can delete and edit comments. I did in some cases…but I don’t like to interfer with the natural course of things…only in extreme cases. -Reed
What you’re doing is really fun. And the coverage you’re receiving is great. I wonder how a blog gets such great coverage, though. Last year, my family and I strove to do one charitable deed every single day. I blogged that, included photos, we did some good stuff and some mundane stuff. Even the kids got into it. But while the project had some followers, it didn’t take off like yours has. Good for you (curious for me). 😉 Keep up the great work!
hello. i have spent a large chunk of my day reading you stories, and besides the fact that you are a caring and dedicated man, i would like to compliment you on your abibilty to write. i am thoroughly impressed with how graphic most of your stories seem to be. thanks for “The Year of Giving”. i believe there are many people with big hearts out there, and the year of giving will go very far.
You absolutely have to stop in Morro Bay, just to see the rock and the coastline, and wander through its cute downtown area.
Reed – I think you are doing honest to goodness community development work here – very grassroots – with media constantly showing us how we are different – it’s nice that someone is showing us how we are all the same, making the world a better place and for the low cost of $10 a day.
The coastal highway drive is breathtaking, it defies a photograph. If you’re going to be the driver, make the stops on the overlooks just to take it all in. Stopping in Carmel and Monterey are a must. I liked walking the Hearst Castle grounds too.
Take your time and take it all in! Have fun!
Did Jen’s mood improve? Too bd it’s called “killing time.” Time spent doing nothing isn’t wasted, necessarily. It’s important for us to sit and just *be* now and then. Recharges the batteries.
Oops: I meant too bad, not too bd.
the entire coast line is amazing. i loved hearst castle, and relaxing walking around morro bay. i saw all sorts of sea creatures swimming around there (free and pretty!)
Check out http://www.mundanejourneys.com/ for info on what to do once you get to San Francisco. Or just call the hotline (415) 364-1465 once you get there for the daily recommendation. There is a pocket sized book you can buy (see website for details), but if you dig enough on their website, you can find lots of archives of old recommendations. It is a good way to see a side of the city missed when following traditional travel guides.
Have fun!
From one Jen to another:
Last March, I flew out to LA on a whim to drive the PCH to San Francisco; unfortunately, the DC/Baltimore area got hit with some snow that cut 2 days off my trip, so I only made it as far north as Monterey. I didn’t plan a thing, other than my arrival and departure – I stopped where I wanted to stop and ate where I wanted to eat – make sure to check out chowhound.com for local suggestions – avoid the chains! Stop at as many scenic overlook areas as you can. Don’t miss Morro Rock/Morro Bay. Spend time in Monterey/Pacific Grove – don’t just bypass it to get to Carmel and the 17 Mile Drive. Get to Big Sur around sunset. Drive carefully near Big Sur! Eat in Lompoc. Walk out Ventura Pier. See the windmills in Solvang. Stop at a strawberry stand – eat them in the car.
I made this trip alone to begin the healing process after my mom died unexpectedly a few months before. I had been laid off and was in a 10day waiting period between a 1st and 2nd interview and needed to do something for myself. It was the trip of a lifetime – simple, sweet and satisfying.
Enjoy and be safe!
Reed – as always, thank you for sharing your stories. Surprised to see you grew up in Mechanicsburg; I was born & raised in Chambersburg!
I just found out about what you are doing, you are a true hero in disguise! 🙂 My step son’s 7th grade class is on their way to D.C. from upstate NY as I type, maybe you will see them! They are from Onteora Central School District. I am sitting here trying to figure out how to help, when I think of something I will let you know! I have alot of reading to do to catch up to today! Maybe something will inspire me!
Jess, I would be happy to meet the children in your son’s class if their teachers are interested. If so, drop me a note at reed@yearofgiving.org. -Reed
Bummer they are on their way back home tomorrow, and have a packed schedule as it is. Would have been cool. Any thoughts on how I could impliment something for June 15th through my cafe?
Jess
Too bad that didn’t work out. As far as the cafe, I will email you directly. -Reed
I have lived in California my entire life and can recommend a couple of places.
Make sure you take a detour off the coast and head into Solvang. It is a danish town half way between Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach and about a half hour inland. It is the neatest little town complete with windmills. Park your car and walk around the town and make sure you sample all of the great pastries.
I love “The Cracked Crab” for lunch or dinner in Pismo Beach. Also, if you like clam chowder, make sure you stop at the Splash Cafe also in Pismo. Don’t let the line that wraps around the building scare you. It moves really quickly and the clam chowder is totally worth it.
After you hit Morro Bay, head inland off of Hwy 46 to do some wine tasting. Some of my favorite wineries are off the 46 on the way to Paso Robles. I am particularly fond of the Almond Sparkiling Wine at Jan Kris.
Head back out to the coast and hit Hearst Castle. Definitely a tourist trap, but one worth seeing. As you head north, stop in Carmel. Another great place to park and walk around town. Great shopping and a beautiful beach. Katys Place has what I consider to be the best breakfast along the coast drive. Make sure you take 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach, some of the best scenery in California. You’ll come out in Monterrey, make sure you eat at the wharf. Almost any restaurant there is great. The aquarium there is one of the best in the country.
I hope you have a fabulous time!
Hello! That drive up the coast is absolutely beautiful! make sure you stop in Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo for some great food and scenary 🙂
Hey Reed! I just saw your June 15th thing. I’m excited!
I thought you should know that I was riding a bus from here to New York and I happened to see my seatmate setting up a profile for the Avon Walk. We talked a little, and she said she was glad the bus had wi-fi because she was able to do that important fundraising work for cancer research. Technology is awesome!
Anyway, I also happened to see her Facebook page (it’s a bus seat, it’s hard to avoid), so I had her name and everything. So, thinking of you, I donated $10 toward her fundraising goal.
Thought you might like to know that! Hope to see you soon!
You rock (literally) Melanie! I will see you tonight at your show! If you are in DC check out Melanie and her band Machines on Vacation tonight at the Velvet Lounge at 9pm! You never know…you just might get my $10 for the day! -Reed
LIVED IN SO CAL MY WHOLE LIVE. MUST MAKE A STOP IN VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA. BUT LETS NOT FORGET YOU ARE STARTING IN LOS ANGELES… YOU HAVE TO GO TO VENISE BEACH, SANTA MONICA PEIR AND OF COURSE CHECK OUT ALL THERE IS TO SEE IN HOLLYWOOD! ITS A FANTASTIC DRIVE! YOU WILL LOVE IT!
I’m one of the people who read the AOL article and found my way to website. Thanks so much for sharing. Very inspiring..
Good luck to you as you continue (and you too Jen!)
btw, wrote a little bit about you on my blog: http://tammy-sam.blogspot.com/
I’ll be following along! *smile*
Do not miss Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Perfect 1/2 way stop over between LA & San Fran. Check out the Best Western Cavalier Resort…Really! You wouldn’t think it, but this was the most relaxing, comforting stay of most any vacation I’ve taken. It’s right on the ocean’s edge where you can stroll on deserted beach with rocky outcrops as the sun sets for the evening. There are several chimeneas set up along the grassy knoll adjoining the hotel and beach. Guests from all over gather around the fires in small groups and chat it up. The hotel allows dogs, so there were some friendly folks tossing frisbees and playing with their furry friends in the surf. Great find, and so reasonably priced!
Driving the PCH is BEAUTIFUL! Be sure to bring a camera! As mentioned before Solvang is a must see.
As is Pismo if you’re not a seafood person stop at Mo’s BBQ and have some garlic fries you might not want to kiss anyone afterwards but they are delicious! Also check out Hotlix Candy they’ve got an interesting variety of candy and edible bugs (!) that I make sure to bring all my friends who come visit to see! Hearst Castle is gorgeous and rich in history and awesome photograph spots.
As you drive up the 1 Monterey and Carmel are awesome. If you have the time spend the day at the aquarium and head up the street a bit to a place called companos for lunch. They serve sandwiches but really you go for the cake, it’s to die for! Plus Bennett the gentleman that owns the place is a hoot! Also if you’re there on a Tuesday check out the farmer’s market and grab some of the Carmel Apples from Hollister! They are AMAZING!
Last but not least once your get yourself to SF stop by Union st at a small little bakery called “That Takes the Cake!” the chocolate raspberry and Elvis are little slices of heaven. It’ll be one of the most moist cupcakes you’ve ever eaten. Just be sure to buy milk while you’re there you’ll want it!!
Suggestions on things to do along the PCH:
Pismo area:
— Clam Chowder bread bowl at Splash Cafe is a must
— Dune buggy (or 4wheeler) fun on the Oceano Beach Sand Dunes … oceanfront fun
Monterey Area:
— 17 mile drive is a must
— For wildlife viewing, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
— 10 miles north of Monterey, kayak Elkhorn Slough for more wildlife close-ups
Santa Cruz:
— for evening sunsetting … Natural Bridges beach
20 – 25 miles north of Santa Cruz:
— Wadell Beach … if windy day, tons of kitesurfers, windsurfers, and hang-gliders playing on the water or in the air
— Ano Nuevo State Preserve … during elephant seals mating season
I sure hope Jen has more than a few days to do the drive, because there is a lot to see and do along this beautiful coastal drive.
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is a popular weekend vacation in Southern
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