What does “We Add Up” really mean? It’s something I think about often. Recently, I’ve discovered that volunteering and helping further the cause of a more connected, empowered, and sustainable society can be really really fun!! Here is a sneak peak into my adventures Sunday, July 12th. I started off the morning boarding the 7 train in NYC out to Flushing, NY, the starting point of the Tour de Queens. About 1200 bicyclists showed up for the 2nd annual 19 mile bike ride around Queens. Why? To celebrate alternative transportation and to highlight our right as bicyclists to ride the roads, along with cars. What did I also learn? That I need to invest in a new seat. The manufacturer’s seat circa 1992 felt like it was carved out of stone! It was a great time, great exercise, and it felt wonderful to be involved.

After the tour ended, I headed off to a small (think pocket-sized) beach in Astoria to volunteer with the Long Island City Community Boathouse. You’ll hear me talk about them a lot because I volunteer often with them. The LICCB mission is to help people who live in the “City of Water” enjoy this natural resource we often take for granted. When you think New York City, do you think horse shoe crabs and free kayaking in the East River? I didn’t think so. Next time you’re in NYC, look us up and come on a paddle. That Sunday, we got about 130 people out in boats, many for the first time. We welcome people of all ages and income levels, as it’s free and we’re all volunteer run.

What natural resources do you have in YOUR community? Is there a way you can support people having greater access and awareness of them? Enjoyment of a resource is the first step toward protecting it. And did I mention? Volunteering and being involved in a cause does NOT need to be depressing or hard. Think of all the neat people you’ll meet of like mind, the fresh air and sun you’ll enjoy, and the satisfaction you’ll feel as you help create a more thrivable community.