Randy Cage
Forum Replies Created
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I didn’t want to spend money, so I just checked the candidate’s official website and Facebook page. Turns out, they had a sign request form and I got one dropped off by a volunteer within a couple of days. Also check local party HQs, they often keep extras in stock!
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I’ve been volunteering with Habitat for Humanity for years, they’re amazing at getting regular folks like us involved in building real homes for families. Also, Feeding America has a great local presence across states!
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PetSmart itself does not directly run a widespread, corporate-managed volunteer program for its stores in the same way an animal shelter might. Instead, PetSmart partners with thousands of local animal welfare organizations (like humane societies and rescue groups) that host adoption centers within PetSmart stores. Therefore, the volunteer opportunities and age requirements are typically set by these partner organizations, not by PetSmart directly.
Key Considerations for Age Requirements:
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General Rule (Working Independently):
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Most animal welfare organizations require volunteers to be 18 years or older to volunteer independently, especially for roles involving direct animal handling or working at off-site adoption centers like those in PetSmart stores. This is often due to liability, safety, and training reasons.
- Younger Volunteers (With Supervision):
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Ages 12-17 (or similar ranges like 16-17): Many organizations allow teenagers in this age group to volunteer, but ONLY if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is also a registered volunteer and present with them at all times during their volunteer shifts. The specific starting age (e.g., 12, 14, or 16) can vary.
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Parent/Guardian Responsibility: The accompanying adult is usually responsible for the direct supervision of the minor volunteer.
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Limited Roles: Younger volunteers, even when supervised, might have restrictions on the types of tasks they can perform (e.g., they might focus on cleaning, socialization in controlled environments, or helping with supplies rather than direct animal handling of all animals).
Variations by Location and Partner Organization:
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It’s crucial to understand that these are general guidelines. The specific age requirements can differ significantly from one PetSmart location to another because it depends entirely on the policies of the particular rescue group or shelter that operates the adoption center there.
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Some organizations may have stricter age limits due to insurance policies or the nature of the animals they care for.
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A few organizations might have specific “junior volunteer” programs with different age brackets and requirements.
How to Find Out the Specific Requirements:
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Identify the Partner Organization: Visit your local PetSmart store and look for signage at the in-store adoption center. This will usually indicate which animal welfare group(s) they partner with.
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Visit the Partner Organization’s Website: Once you know the name of the local shelter or rescue group, go to their official website. They will almost always have a “Volunteer” section that details their programs, age requirements, application process, and any orientation or training needed.
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Contact the Partner Organization Directly: If the information isn’t clear online, find the volunteer coordinator’s contact information (email or phone number) on the organization’s website and reach out to them.
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Inquire at the PetSmart Store (Less Direct): While PetSmart employees might be able to tell you which organization they partner with, they likely won’t know the specifics of the volunteer policies. It’s always best to go directly to the source—the animal welfare group.
Common Volunteer Tasks (which may have age restrictions):
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Cleaning kennels and habitats
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Socializing animals (e.g., petting cats, playing with dogs in designated areas)
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Assisting with adoption events (greeting potential adopters, providing information)
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Laundry and dishwashing
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Restocking supplies
Always be prepared to go through an application process, attend an orientation, and possibly undergo specific training before starting to volunteer.
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Of course they’re not deductible. Imagine the chaos if political donations lowered everyone’s taxes! The government’s smart enough to separate civic passion from tax benefits. If you’re giving to politics, you’re doing it with your wallet wide open — no refunds.
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I’ve looked into this too! The co-founder, Bernie Marcus, has donated to Republicans, yes—but Home Depot as a company also makes donations to both parties. It seems more like they’re trying to maintain good relationships across the board. I think it’s important to distinguish between a founder’s personal views and a company’s actual political contributions.
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I just graduated with a political science degree last year, and yeah, it’s competitive—but not impossible! I interned during college, stayed active in local politics, and eventually got hired by a policy nonprofit. You just have to be proactive and open to different types of roles. The degree gives you a solid foundation, but experience is what really opens doors.
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Political calls are pretty common during election seasons—and yes, your number can end up in a campaign’s hands for a few key reasons:
1. Voter Registration Lists Are Public (in Most States)
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When you register to vote, your basic information (like name, address, party affiliation, and sometimes phone number) is available to political parties, candidates, and researchers.
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Even if you didn’t provide a number, third-party databases sometimes match your info with publicly listed phone numbers.
2. You Might’ve Shared Your Number Somewhere Else
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Did you ever sign an online petition, take a political quiz, make a campaign donation, or RSVP to a political event? Your number may have been collected and added to campaign outreach lists.
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Campaigns also sometimes rent or buy lists from data brokers who compile voter demographics.
3. They’re Exempt from Do Not Call Laws
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Political calls aren’t blocked by the National Do Not Call Registry. They’re legally allowed under U.S. law, even for landlines.
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Robocalls are allowed to landlines but not cell phones unless you gave consent—though this rule isn’t always followed.
4. There’s Usually a Way to Opt Out
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If it’s a real person or a legit campaign number, ask to be removed from their call list.
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For robocalls, you can sometimes press a number to opt out, though results vary.
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Report unwanted or illegal political robocalls to the FCC or your state’s attorney general—especially if you suspect it’s spammy or misleading.
5. Final Thoughts Getting political calls is part of the territory once you’re in the voter database. While some people engage with them, others block them or let them go to voicemail. You’re not alone—millions of Americans wonder the same thing every election cycle.
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Understanding the distinctions between nonprofits, charities, and 501(c)(3) organizations is crucial for anyone involved in or considering supporting these entities. Here’s a breakdown:
I. Defining the Terms:
◘ Nonprofit:
◦ This is the broadest term. It refers to any organization that operates for a purpose other than generating profit for its owners or members.
◦ Nonprofits can include a wide range of entities, such as educational institutions, social clubs, hospitals, and charitable organizations.
◦ The key characteristic is that any revenue generated is reinvested into the organization’s mission.
◘ Charity:
◦ A charity is a type of nonprofit organization that focuses on providing aid and assistance to those in need.
◦ Charities typically address issues such as poverty, hunger, disease, and disaster relief.
◦ All charities are nonprofits, but not all nonprofits are charities.
◘ 501(c)(3):
◦ This is a specific tax-exempt status granted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
◦ Organizations with 501(c)(3) status are considered public charities or private foundations.
◦ Donations to 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-deductible for donors.
◦ To be a 501(c)(3) organization the entity must be operated for religious, charitable, scientific, testing for public safety, literary, or educational purposes, or to foster national or international amateur sports competition, or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals.
II. Key Differences:
◘ Scope:
◦ Nonprofit: Broadest category.
◦ Charity: A subset of nonprofits.
◦ 501(c)(3): A specific tax designation.
◘ Purpose:
◦ Nonprofit: Operates for a purpose other than profit.
◦ Charity: Provides aid and assistance.
◦ 501(c)(3): Operates for specific exempt purposes defined by the IRS.
◘ Tax Implications:
◦ Nonprofit: May or may not be tax-exempt.
◦ Charity: Typically tax-exempt.
◦ 501(c)(3): Tax-exempt with tax-deductible donations.
◘ Regulation:
◦ All must abide by state laws regarding non profit organizations.
◦ 501(c)(3) organizations are heavily regulated by the IRS.
III. Practical Implications:
⦿ When donating, look for 501(c)(3) status to ensure your contribution is tax-deductible.
⦿ Recognize that nonprofits serve diverse purposes beyond charitable aid.
⦿ Understanding these distinctions helps in evaluating an organization’s mission and impact.
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Technically, yes, you can have both. However, you must maintain very clear separation between the two entities. They must operate independently, with separate finances, boards, and purposes. You absolutely need to consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Failure to do so could lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. This is not a ‘DIY’ project.
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Planned Parenthood is a vital resource. It’s a 501(c)(3), yes, and that allows them to receive crucial funding to support reproductive healthcare. The attacks on their status are just another way to undermine women’s rights and access to essential services.
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Look, whether you call it ‘nonprofit’ or ‘not-for-profit,’ what matters is the mission. Are you serving the community? Are you making a difference? Most of the time, people mean the same thing: organizations that put their resources back into their purpose, not into shareholders’ pockets. Don’t get bogged down in semantics; focus on the impact.
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For me, the Democratic Party has always seemed more aligned with the working class. They advocate for higher minimum wages, better labor protections, and stronger unions, which are crucial for people like me who work in trades. I’ve seen them fight for healthcare access and better working conditions, which is important for those of us who struggle to get by. I don’t always agree with everything they do, but they seem to stand up more for people who work hard and don’t have much.
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Top 10 Best Political Thriller Book Recommendations
If you’re a fan of suspense, politics, and high-stakes power games, then political thrillers are the genre for you. Below is a list of 10 must-read political thrillers, covering both classic and modern tales of intrigue:
1. The Manchurian Candidate by Richard Condon
A terrifying exploration of brainwashing, political manipulation, and Cold War tensions. This novel is a masterpiece of suspense, with unexpected twists and a chilling portrayal of political scheming.
2. All the President’s Men by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
This non-fiction classic details the investigation that led to the Watergate scandal and the resignation of President Nixon. It’s a true-life thriller that feels like fiction, gripping and packed with intrigue.
3. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré
A Cold War-era espionage novel that delves into the complexity of loyalty, betrayal, and espionage. John le Carré’s work is renowned for its psychological depth and nuanced portrayal of the intelligence community.
4. The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy
This novel about a Soviet submarine captain defecting to the U.S. is a thrilling exploration of military power, Cold War politics, and strategic maneuvering. It’s a perfect blend of political tension and action.
5. The Pelican Brief by John Grisham
A fast-paced, action-packed novel that follows a law student uncovering a conspiracy surrounding the murders of two Supreme Court justices. It’s a page-turner, blending legal intrigue with high-stakes political drama.
6. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Though more of a psychological thriller, the novel’s exploration of power dynamics, manipulation, and betrayal in a small, insular academic group brings a unique take on political and personal intrigue.
7. Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews
This novel centers around a Russian spy trained to seduce and manipulate for information. With its insight into the Russian intelligence world and the perilous nature of political espionage, it’s a modern, fast-paced thriller.
8. The Constant Gardener by John le Carré
A novel that combines the world of international politics, corporate corruption, and personal tragedy. It’s a haunting look at the intersection of personal vengeance and global power.
9. The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum
This iconic spy thriller introduces Jason Bourne, a man with amnesia caught up in a dangerous web of international politics, conspiracy, and assassination. The stakes are high, and the action never lets up.
10. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
A thought-provoking political thriller that imagines an alternate history in which the U.S. elects an isolationist, fascist president. It explores themes of nationalism, fear, and the fragility of democracy in an eerily plausible way.
Each of these books offers a unique take on political intrigue, from historical conspiracies to modern-day power struggles, and they’ll all keep you on the edge of your seat.
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Sure, political science is an interesting field, but let’s not sugarcoat it. It can be a bit broad and might not always lead to a clear-cut career path. Many graduates find themselves competing for jobs in government or NGOs, which can be tough to land without additional skills or a good network. If you’re thinking of entering law school or politics, it’s a solid choice, but be prepared to work hard for opportunities, and remember that the road to a successful career in this field isn’t always straightforward.
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I went to Georgetown University, and honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better school for my political career. If you’re aiming for top-notch programs, consider:
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Harvard University – The best in terms of academic resources and connections.
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Stanford University – Its program in political economy and public policy is second to none.
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Yale University – If you’re into political philosophy, this is where you want to be.
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Princeton University – Small, elite, and focused on political theory.
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University of Chicago – Known for its rigorous and analytical approach to political science.
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University of California, Berkeley – Great for activism and public service.
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<b style=”font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; color: var(–bb-body-text-color);”>University of Michigan – A hidden gem, really strong in political research and public policy.
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