Showing posts with label volunteering. Show all posts
Showing posts with label volunteering. Show all posts

Monday, April 20, 2009

BP MS 150 rolls into Austin

This past Sunday, BR and I set up an unofficial community pit stop at the edge of the Mueller Southwest Greenway. Several neighbors, as well as Cathy and Todd from Dallas, joined us in cheering in the 11,000 riders, who raised over $12 million for the Lone Star Chapter of the National MS Society.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Breaking out of isolation

Since arriving in Austin nearly six months ago, BR and I have yet to seriously work at building new friendships. Our existing support system of friends from all over the country have been great at sustaining our interpersonal skills. Still, as the months pass, I notice that we remain disconnected from the citizens of our new home town.

Back when we lived in San Francisco, I met people through work, as well as by volunteering at Magnet, a gay men's health clinic. BR made friends through his work as a school teacher. And we both have met some great people over drinks at the neighborhood bars.

Things have changed, and we need to find new ways to meet people with similar interests in our area.

For BR, we are considering an Adult Day Center as a way for him to get out and socialize while I'm working. They would have a nurse on staff, in case any medical issues should arise (read: another seizure). Of course we are a bit concerned that BR will be the youngest person there, but it might lead to additional opportunities for him. The social network has to start somewhere.

As for myself, I'm considering volunteering at a local public school. On days when he's up to it, BR and I could even do this together.

If you have any suggestions, send them our way! We'll keep you posted on our progress.