Charity

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Hot Shopping: Shopping for Charity with Karma Exchange

Silk blankets at Manito Silk

Want to feel good about spending money? With each purchase of a luxurious silk robe or full-sized silk blanket (pictured) from Manito Silk, or of Karma Noodles from Sala Thai, or of stunning Karma Crystals from The Crystalworks Gallery, the Sanga Primary School Water Project comes a step closer to its goal of a rainwater harvesting tank to store drinking water for the seven-month-long dry season in Sanga, Ghana. Karma Exchange brings together responsible businesses, socially aware shoppers, and charities that help end the poverty cycle by providing access to education and clean water. Who knew indulging yourself could be so spiritually fulfilling? Visit www.karmaexchange.com to find out more.—Sheri Radford

Hot Art: Portraits of Inner Strength

"The Believer" by Gavin Murphy is one of the photographs on display for "Transitions."

Local photographer Gavin Murphy is using his art to support a good cause. Until April 6, proceeds from his latest fundraising exhibition will go to the organization Breast Cancer Action Ottawa. Entitled “Transitions presented by Meridian,” the show features portraits of women of all shapes, sizes, ages, races, and backgrounds. These inspiring photos are an apt celebration of women, while also raising money to support survivors of a disease that targets people from all walks of life. On view at Gallery Farina, 216 Elgin St., and Meridian Credit Union, 99 Bank St., 613-741-4029.

Hot Dates: Dining Out for Life

Dockside Restaurant and Brewing Company photo by KK Law

March 29

One day each year, restaurants all across North America contribute 25 percent of their sales to charities that support people living with HIV/AIDS. In Vancouver and Whistler, 250 restaurants participate, giving diners plenty of opportunities to benefit A Loving Spoonful (www.alovingspoonful.org) and Friends For Life (www.friendsfor life.ca). So, after enjoying breakfast at Sophie’s Cosmic Cafe, lunch at Pink Elephant Thai or dinner at Dockside, you’ll leave with both a full belly and a warm heart. For more info, click here.—Sheri Radford

Hot Shopping: TOMS One for One Program

TOMS Classic 101 sunglasses

There’s nothing like the elation after a new purchase. Now that feel-good moment lasts even longer thanks to the TOMS One for One program. First came the shoes, which saw over 1,000,000 pairs given to children in need around the globe, and now for every pair of sunglasses purchased, TOMS offers much-needed medical treatment and prescription eyewear to those who can’t afford it. So protect your peepers and stock up on a new pair, or three, of these Italian-made sunnies (including the Classic 101, pictured), available for the first time this month. Visit www.toms.ca for retailers and to shop online.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Pretty in Pink

This cute hair brush benefits charity and fits into your purse

Head to Sephora this October for one of the limited-edition pink products (including the pop-up hair brush, pictured) that help benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This beauty-product-lover’s paradise donates one dollar to the BCRF for every item sold. —Jennifer Patterson

More information:

Pacific Centre, 701 W. Georgia St. 778-331-3942.

Metropolis at Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. 604-678-2360.

Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam. 778-284-2350.

www.sephora.com

Hot Shopping: A Fashionable Reason to Shop

Michael Kors scarves

Wondering why so many people have pink ribbons pinned on their lapels right now? Well, October is breast cancer awareness month, so it’s a prime time for fundraising and for showing support. Fashion joins the fight at Holt Renfrew, where purchases of the limited-edition, cashmere-and-wool-blend leopard print scarves by Michael Kors ($50, pictured) benefit the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation—celebrating its 25th anniversary.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

Holt Renfrew, Pacific Centre, 737 Dunsmuir St. 604-681-3121.

www.holtrenfrew.com

Hot Shopping: Fancy Footwork

Trendy yet classic TOMS shoes, designed by the Olsen twins

The days as Michelle Tanner on Full House are just distant memories for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Now they’re focused on their passion for fashion. Items fly off the shelves from their casual Elizabeth & James line and from their luxe label The Row. Recently they lent their star power to a good cause: designing a line of cashmere and wool shoes for TOMS (pictured), a company that for every pair of shoes purchased donates a pair to a child in need. Head to Holt Renfrew to buy items from all three projects, or purchase your pair of slip-ons at www.toms.com.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Date: Run for a Cure

Lace up those sneakers for the Terry Fox Run (photo by Timothy Takemoto)

SEPTEMBER 18, 2011 The legacy of a Canadian icon lives on this weekend as municipalities across Canada host their annual Terry Fox Run. The fun and inspiring community-based event carries on Fox’s mission to find a cure for cancer. In Muskoka, the village of Windermere welcomes runners, walkers and cyclists to participate in its Terry Fox Run, starting at the Windermere Village Hall, across from the United Church. In conjunction with the event are a barbecue, live music, games and even a silent auction featuring gifts from Muskoka businesses.

Hot Entertainment: Serenity Now

Waterfront Yoga at Canada Place

Even if you don’t know a dosha from a chakra, you’re welcome to practice your poses during Waterfront Yoga at Canada Place (to Sep. 19). Not only can you work on improving your body while gazing at the scenery, but you can work on improving your soul, too: proceeds from the program help feed local children.—Kristina Urquhart

Hot Entertainment: Motown Meltdown

Reid Jamieson

Dance the night away at the Commodore Ballroom and contribute to charity at the same time—all for just $30. Motown Meltdown (Mar. 26) features dozens of local musicians, including Reid Jamieson (pictured), Leora Cashe, Mark James Fortin, The Sojourners and Ali Milner, performing to raise funds for people living with HIV/AIDS. Don’t delay: this heartwarming event sells out every year.—Sheri Radford