Give a Little, Take a Little--Freecyle It!

What's freecycling? Well you've probably been doing it for years. Instead of throwing away or selling things you don't need anymore, you donate them to someone else who can use them. There is a grassroots movement sponsored by The Freecycle Network where thousands of people are freecycling daily.

The Freecycle Network was started in 2003 in Tucson, AZ. Individuals joined together to get rid of waste in their downtown area and save their beautiful desert landscaping from being taken over by landfills. But they didn't stop there, the movement expanded and now people all across the world are freecycling.

So how do you get started freecycling? First sign up through the website freecycle.org and find a freecycling community in your area...don't worry there are over 4,000 communities with over 3 million members that freecycle, so if there's not one near you maybe you can start one. After you sign up you will begin to receive daily emails with people offering to give things away. Some of the emails will be from people who are in search of certain items. Don't think that the items being freecycled are junk either. People freecycle everything imaginable from couches, TVS, computers, printers, phones, furniture, appliances, baby items, clothing, and even unopened food.

The Freecycle Network has helped some people through rough times. Some families have been able to receive food boxes, dining room tables, beds, and clothing. It truly is giving at it's best. And there is no better way to feel good then to know that you did something nice to help someone else.

Worried about spamming or getting unwanted junk mail? Not to worry, The Freecycle Network has volunteer moderators that keep a close eye on every mailing. They make sure that no one is abusing the service by promoting their own business or offering illicit items. Also they make sure people just aren't being greedy by requiring that for every item that you request, you must give one item away.

So what are you waiting for? Start looking through your closet and giving away all of those outfits that you haven't worn in over a year. Bought something for yourself but when you got home you didn't like it or just didn't use it? Give it away! The saying is true that one man's junk is another man's treasure and there are tons of people who would be happy and blessed by what you have to give away.