About PHP Fest

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others"
    ~ Mohandas Ghandi

Government agencies and non-profit agencies in Orange County (and elsewhere) are under increasing pressure. While the economic downturn has created a greater demand for services, funding is getting harder and harder to obtain.

Job stats from federal employment counters show that Orange County lost 19,100 jobs in the year ended in the third quarter, the worst rate of job loss among the nation’s 328 largest counties. In this current economic climate, nonprofits are being asked to provide more services with fewer resources. Nationally, 62% of nonprofits had an increase in demand for services in 2009, and 51% had a decrease in contributions. Private donations to nonprofits have dropped over 6% since 2009. Nonprofits operate on tight budgets, so decreases in revenue lead directly to cuts in services.

Organizations are being forced to make hard choices about where to focus their resources for the next 12 to 18 months. Staff layoffs seem to be the obvious choice. A direct result from staff reductions is that non-profits simply will be unable to serve their constituents. The need for volunteers is more important than ever. The dollar value of a volunteer's time is worth $21.36/hour. These challenging times calls for more action to serve our communities through volunteer service. We have the power within us to make a difference.  Can we count on you?

On Sunday, September 11, 2011...

A large gathering of non-profit groups will come together in Costa Mesa, CA., at the 9th Annual People Helping People Fest to stimulate community engagement thru volunteerism.

Everyone is encouraged to volunteer a minimum of 1 hour of their time per month for the upcoming year, or to make a blood donation to the American Red Course.

This day is provided free to all non-profit agencies and to all visitors who come to volunteer. The event is supported solely from funds and services donated by our local community. Can we count on you?