New Book Features Pacifica Volunteers in Action

A group of volunteers from Pacifica are prominently featured in a new book, "Good Neighbor Stories 2013 Datebook," written by Pam Marino, Patch contributor and guest editor in the South Bay for the past two years.

Marino, a blog creator and editor, also has her own website, Good Neighbor Stories, about San Francisco Bay Area people and organizations that are making a difference in the community and the world.

"Good Neighbor Stories 2013 Datebook" features articles and photos of Bay Area volunteers and organizations that are making their communities a better place, including members from St. Andrew Presbyterian Church of Pacifica. 

"Their story of making friends through annual trips to New Orleans to help rebuild after Hurricane Katrina is one of 12 in the datebook," said Marino.

The original story about the Pacifica volunteers featured in the datebook can be read here.

“Be a good neighbor, share good stories,” is at the heart of Marino's blog about locals making the world a better place, and now their stories are coming to life on the pages of the inspirational datebook.

The book is a collaboration between the Good Neighbor Stories blog and San Mateo-based Reach and Teach, a peace and social justice learning company.

“Our goal is to inspire people to be good neighbors and make their communities just a little brighter throughout the year,” said Marino. “We’re also excited about shining a light on some really awesome people and groups who are making a real difference to others.”

In addition to the uplifting stories and full-color illustrations, the 8 ½-inch x 5 ½-inch spiral-bound datebook includes inspirational quotes for each week, reminders of holidays and important dates from a diverse array of perspectives, and generous space to jot down appointments and special occasions.

For users with smart devices who want to find out more about the people and organizations in the datebook, each story comes with a QR Code that when scanned takes them to full-length stories on the Good Neighbor Stories website.

The datebook’s eye-catching design is by Oakland-based Design Action Collective. Currently in pre-order, it will come printed in late October on recycled materials with soy ink by Inkworks Press in Berkeley.

Marino launched Good Neighbor Stories in 2010, drawing on both her reporting background and a lifetime of volunteer experiences to share positive stories of Bay Area volunteers and nonprofits. The site also serves as a valuable resource to those looking for opportunities to volunteer or donate, as well as to nonprofits.

Reach and Teach is a peace and social justice learning company, working to transform the world through teachable moments. Through both the Reach and Teach website and a brick-and-mortar store at 178 South Boulevard, San Mateo, the company offers books, films, music, curriculum, games, toys, fair trade gifts, and other products focused on peacemaking, gender equality, and sustainable living.

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