A few nifty websites

www.freeconferencepro.com allows you to hold free conference calls. Useful for small businesses, volunteer organizations, or neighbors planning a block party! :-)

www.volunteermatch.org allows you to find volunteer opportunities for you, your kids, groups you are involved with who are looking for good deeds to do. Virtual opportunities are available in addition to onews near your location, and I actually decided to brush up on my editing skills and volunteered to edit some pieces for the Caffeine Awareness Association (www.caffeineawareness.org). Turns out that the pieces will be included in a book coming out next year, and I will receive an acknowledgement in the book. Nice. Makes me think what a great thing this website is, not only for kids looking for mitzvah projects or beta clubs at schools, but for jobhunters wishing to keep their skills sharp, their resume populated, and their network growing. By the same token, people involved with non-profits might want to list open projects; they may attract volunteers.

www.halfoffdepot.com exists in a few cities, includidng Atlanta, and is growing. It's a great way to purchase gift cards at half price. Subscribe to their newsletter and follow them on twitter for more deals.