I've stepped away from job search coaching and training because of Hurricane Sandy. Our home in Sea Bright was flooded and subsequently gutted. We are now waiting to hear about insurance so that we can decide our next steps. 

In November I read a quote about volunteering and I wanted to do something to help. I decided to paint and sell ornaments to benefit those affected by Hurricane Sandy; specifically Sea Bright Rising a not-for-profit group whose mission is to provide funding and support for the needy and/or displaced and the general recovery of the businesses and residents of Sea Bright. 

Each ornament was hand-painted and filled with sterilized Sea Bright sand, shells and sea glass.  I made over 200 or them and after selling most of them to my friends and at the recent Sea Bright Rising Beach Bash have made over $2300. for the group.

A couple of the things that I harp on during job search training are volunteerism and networking.  During this past month through volunteering and painting, I have met so many wonderful residents of Sea Bright and have had an opportunity to network. Volunteering leads to bettering your skill set, learning a new skill, meeting new people and of course, helping others.

I will be back in 2012 with more job search tips. Happy Holidays to you all and if you can, get out there and volunteer.