News — Social Activity

I have been independently chairing school tag sales and book sales for the past 10 plus years, and decided to condense some of what I’ve learned here, in hopes that others will try this fun and profitable type of fundraising. To me, a successful tag / garage / yard / rummage sale is not about how much money you make, but more importantly, how much stuff you get rid on, how many happier homes you find for your unwanted things, and to build a sense of community.  New friendships develop when putting together events like these.  Romantic relationships are often...

Tag sale season is right around the corner.  My inventory is low, and I am hungry.  As the ads start to appear on Craigslist, as well as the occasional sign stapled to a telephone pole, I feel stirrings inside, and get ready for the hunt.  But not all sales are created equal, and as the season slowly begins, I have to be careful not to race right out to everything I see, no matter how tempting.  There are the wonderful sales, and the ones that are a complete waste of time.  Here is a general guide to a few types...

Barter, the exchange of goods or services for other goods or services without using money, is a wonderful way to save money, make friends, and get great stuff!  It helps develop key survival skills in any economy, and fosters an environment of collaboration and sharing. For some reason, however, many people initially become uncomfortable with the notion of trade.  When speaking to friends about my idea of hosting a swap, often they will say, "But I don't have anything to trade!" or "I'm not sure what exactly I need."  Fear no more, and take my handy dandy "What do I have to...

Why trade?  In this economy, why not?  Barter, or the act of trading without the use of money, has many benefits, including the following: SAVE CASH - benefit without spending money SAVE TIME - have others do what you prefer not to MAKE FRIENDS - everyone has something to offer HELP THE ENVIRONMENT - reuse, recycle, reduce EXERCISE YOUR BRAIN - learn how to negotiate and much more EMPOWER - value labor and develop self-reliance, as well as the power of negotiation BUILD COMMUNITY PRIDE - collective power through the individuals in a group HAVE FUN! My earliest trade occurred...