We have been asked several times which causes we support – whom Ryan supports and whom the site supports. The easy answer (although it might not make sense) is “yes”.

We support a number of causes. When we were first looking into charities seven years ago, Ryan wanted to explore PETA and other animal-related charities (because he himself has a small furry creature at home). We then changed our focus to child-related charities. There were several options and we left it to a fan vote (at Ryan’s request). The fans selected the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Due to Ryan’s brother Patrick’s support of Broadway Cares, we have also raised money for them. Then there are the organizations supported by our staff (a very active group who tend to be extremely vocal in so many ways). So, I have listed the main causes supported by this site and its staff and hope you find something that piques your interest. There is also a whole list of other charities based on interest area. If you have a charity you would like mentioned, please contact me with information (and preferably a graphic I can use) and I will get it added!

Remember, even if you can’t donate money, they can always use volunteers!

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: This is the first major charity this site supported. The Center gained prominence in the 1980s for its work and support of legislation creating a national database for finding missing kids. They are behind toughened laws combating victimization of children and internet predators. Their hotline 800-THE-LOST, is one of the best-known starting points for parents looking for help.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: This is our preferred animal charity. The ASPCA not only stands against animal cruelty but runs shelters in every state to help stray animals find loving homes. They are also a force recovering stranded animals after disastrous events such as Hurricane Katrina. Not only do they save animal lives, they reunite animals with their families and find new homes for those whose families are unable to care for them.

National Organization for Victim Assistance: NOVA is in the top 100 US charities that I discovered while raising money for Katrina Victims. They have been around for 30 years, providing crisis counseling for victims of crime, tragedy and disaster. They are victim advocates and provide training for their peers. They are first responders when tragedy strikes, helping not only the victims but their families, making sure there is a support structure for long-term recovery. They have a crisis hotline that has gained prominence (1-800-TRY-NOVA), especially following the 9/11 attacks in New York City. I have personally raised money for them following Katrina and they are truly wonderful people who were working around the clock to help victims.

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS: Equity Fights AIDS was formed in 1987 to raise money for The Actors’ Fund’s AIDS Initiative. Broadway Cares was then founded a year later to raise money and support AIDS service organizations. They merged in 1992. The entertainment community has been greatly affected by this disease and this is their way to not only take care of their own but also help fund social organizations and increase awareness. We have auctioned to benefit this charity and will continue to do so.

The Alliance School: This alternative school was opened in 2005 as part of the Milwaukee School District and is the first of its kid – a violence-free, bullying-free high school. It has helped kids that might not otherwise might not have found their full potential because of the way they were treated by their peers. It provides a supportive environment and has allowed these kids to excel. It has truly saved lives. Our staffer Corky has worked at the school for the past year and is amazed at how it has transformed the students – and her own life. It has been covered by Elle Girl Magazine and will soon be covered by CNN, Good Morning America and Out Magazine.

American Cancer Society and Leukemia/Lymphoma Society: Cancer can strike anyone. Our staff has also been affected. Susan is a survivor that now volunteers her time helping plan events for these organizations. The offer many opportunities to get involved - Relay for Life, Daffodil Days, and Light the Night - just to name a few. They raise money to support research, education and social services to help those battling and surviving the disease. Survival rates have improved drastically due to these organizations.

A Star For Jack Cassidy: This is our own initiative to fund a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Ryan’s father. He has already been selected. We have accomplished that difficult step. All we have to do is fund the star. Annie is the treasurer for this initiative and we have several projects in the works including keychains, t-shirts, DVDs and rare Cassidy Collectibles. If you have fundraising ideas, we would love to hear them! Discussions about fundraising are on the message board. We do have a separate paypal account set up as well. You can access that off of Jack’s bio page. We have a very reachable goal and Jack truly deserves this honor.