Real Estate and Reston, VA: Un-Leash Your Inner Super Hero

We live in a crazy-busy, topsy-turvy world. It is very easy to get caught up in our own angst, problems and jam-packed schedules.

In the summertime, the Movie studios usually release their Super Hero movies.  Sitting in the theater with my children the other day, watching Kung Fu Panda (it is a stretch to call it a 'super hero' move, I realize), I got to thinking about the fact that each one of us has so much to give to our communities.

Some folks have money, some folks have talent, but all of us have the the ability to work hard for the 'greater good.'

With the school year fast approaching (can you believe it?) there are many opportunities to make a real difference in the life of a child in your community. Maybe this is the year that you can find the time to do some mentoring.  How about some coaching with the local football, soccer or cheerleading squads?  Maybe your time is all accounted for, but when you next go to a local store, why don't you pick up a backpack and fill it with school supplies? Even at our local elementary school, with a very high socioeconomic student body, the principal keeps a supply of these backpacks just 'in case.'

There are many local charities that could use your time and financing. If you look around your community, and look inward to see what is important to YOU, you will be able to find a way to become a Super Hero in your community!

More information on becoming a Super Hero in the Reston/Herndon/Great Falls Area:
In the Reston/Herndon/Great Falls area, a really good place to start is Reston Interfaith (www.restoninterfaith.org). As stated on their website, ' Reston Interfaith promotes self-sufficiency through support and advocacy for those in need of food, shelter, affordable housing, quality childcare, and other services.'
Reston Interfaith also collects supplies for the Embry Rucker Community Shelter, which is run by Fairfax Country.  On the Reston Interfaith website, you will see a link for supplies that the shelter needs.

In Herndon is The Closet.  This store provides a greatly needed resource for families on a tight budget. They are always in need of volunteers and donations.  You can get more information about what they need at: theclosetinc.org/

Collections of new, unused backpacks are currently going on. I know that there are boxes at the Lake Anne Reston Community Center and the StarBucks next to Barnes and Noble. I am sure there are many other locations in the area, just keep your eyes open.