I am online this morning looking for direction in a group or organization that I can be part of that makes a difference in both my children's and my life. I am a single mother of two children, 32 years old, and full of life and I am not sure what I am looking for but would like advise on where I should start and what I should look for in an organization? If you have any advice please feel free to email me and let me know!

There are so many ways to help or stay involved in our children's lives. For instance, at my younger son's preschool I started an after school soccer program. I was tired of all of the overly expensive programs and thus set out to start one on my own. This not only helped me and my children, but did also benefit others in the community. Similarly, I have been very involved in their schools to the extent that I have helped them initiate a fundraiser so the teachers could get health care benefits. I think it's important to not only say you want to get involved — but actually help devise tangible suggestions.

I have actually recently written a book that includes some of these experiences — as well as those of others — Opting In: Having A Child Without Losing Yourself.

—Amy