a difference in the lives of women and youth. Donate to FAIR Fund, which works to prevent sexual violence and exploitation.


your journal. Louder Than Words, a series of teen-authored memoirs, is taking submissions on a rolling basis from girls ages 13-19 who are interested in writing a memoir.

African girls and invest in their economic independence. Camfed (The Campaign for Female Education) works in rural African communities to support girls from primary education into young adulthood.

...it up for Jenkins Orphanage at Magnolia Gardens. November 14 is the inaugural benefit event, featuring the Quentin Baxter Septet and Ann Caldwell and the Loosefitt Jazz Ensemble. All proceeds will be donated to the orphanage to support future growth. Tickets available at First Federal offices firstfederal.com and at Magnolia Gardens.

kids drink clean water simply by playing. PlayPumps are water-pumping systems that double as merry-go-rounds. Over 1,000 have been installed and the group is hoping to have 4,000 by 2010.

Spend your afternoons feeling like a superhero. SideWalk Chalk, the wildly successful organization featured in skirt! in December 2008, is seeking more volunteers for their growing needs. Email janahodge@sidewalkchalk.us for information.

Put prevention first and advocate for women’s health. Planned Parenthood’s Prevention First Canvass Campaign needs some sturdy soles. On weekends through October 25, volunteers are needed and a small stipend will be provided to compensate for child care, time off work and/or travel expenses. Contact Sloane at sloane.whelan@pphsinc.org or 628.4380 ext. 6446.

is running out. One of the oldest natural landscapes in America is disappearing...mountaintop by mountaintop. Help stop mountaintop removal mining with a donation to earthjustice.org (“because the earth needs a good lawyer”).

online at mysistershouse5dollars.bbnow.org to raise money for domestic violence victims in Charleston, Berkely and Dorchester counties. My Sister's House is trying to raise $10,000 between Monday, July 27 and Friday July 31. They are asking for donations of as little as $5 to reach this goal.

Move to reggae beats by Toots & the Maytals on July 24 and help raise funds for Carolina Studios in association with Rockin’ on the Point at Patriot's Point, 6pm, tickets $35/30 in advance.

the lives of breast cancer patients. On May 23, enjoy live music by Indecision at the 5th Annual Suzy McGrane Memorial, hosted by “Share Our Suzy,” a nonprofit dedicated to raising money and resources for patients.

­your SC state senator and let him know your opposition to H 3245. The bill would require a mandatory 24-hour delay after receiving an ultrasound (already a standard practice of care), before obtaining an abortion. Women would be forced to make two separate trips to receive the medical care they seek. Find your state senator's name and address at scstatehouse.gov­.

Too shocked by the bill to put together cohesive thoughts? (We understand.) Planned Parenthood on Rutledge Avenue has talking points for your letter. Only have a minute? ­Print out our letter­, fill in the blanks and provide your own envelope and stamp. Voila!

Click here for your easy-peasy mad lib letter.