Some people were making fun of me for wanting to leave me job and volunteer.

[EnviroBat]

For years I've wanted to join one of those "Scub-a-Duck" wildlife rescue efforts. It seems as though I'm needed more than ever now, but there are problems. My job will not let me take a leave of absence, even though I basically do nothing to benefit anyone at my job, and I could be gone for days and no one would ever notice. Some of the people I've talked to think I'm a lunatic for wanting to go down there.

I feel horrible that I could finally be doing something worth while with my life, and I risk losing my home and everything if I do.

[FSogol]

1. My wife has a lot of vacation time saved up and wanted to go help out

but, it would probably be too emotionally damaging for her to go. I think you should stay at your job. Whether it is a good job or not, keep it (and your house) in this economy. You can help out by recruiting others to go. Inform like-minded-souls of the volunteer opportunities. Post the info at grocery stores, animal shelters, and on the web. Try to get the info into your local papers including community papers. You can help a lot from where you are.

[Tailormyst]

2. Riskinng your home isn't helping anything, it's just creating more problems

Find some other way to help in your local community.

[EnviroBat]

4. I know you're right. It's just sad that our home become "prisions",

when you realize there are meaningful things that you could be out in the world doing if you had the freedom of no debt.

[Tailormyst]

7. Can I make a suggestion?

Check out your local shelter or hotline. There is lots you could offer with a few hours a month or week.

[Ian David]

3. This economy is no time to leave your job. In order to do Good, you must first do Well.

Your ability to help the environment and your fellow man is greatly diminished if you're struggling to feed, clothe and house yourself.

Kick a few bucks to The World Wildlife Fund or The American Red Cross for now.

Or find something local to volunteer for on the weekends.

[zipplewrath]

5. Personal Family Leave

The requirements for a PFL are pretty loose, and the company is fairly restricted from stopping you. Could be a tad tough when you come back though.

[Javaman]

6. Some people are just plain jealous

and have to hide behind criticism to justify it.

cheers to you!

Me, I would love to go, but financially I am unable to. :(