Holidays always inspire kindness toward our fellow man, but what about the other weeks of the year? Celebrate awareness days throughout the year that encourage the philanthropic spirit.

January

Jan. 13 is Make Your Dreams Come True Day. Don’t wait for the world to turn your fantasies into realities.  Today, take the reins of your own destiny and go out and make it happen.

February

Sure, we all know that Feb. 14 is Valentine’s Day, but the same date also marks National Organ Donor Day. This year, forego the heart-shaped candies; instead, visit www.organdonor.gov with your sweetheart to start the process of helping the more than 111,000 people currently waiting for donated organs.

March

Welcome spring a little early on March 14 in honor of Learn About Butterflies Day. Do some research about these beautiful creatures, then go outside and find a few to watch flutter from flower to flower as part of our miraculous ecosystem.

April

It’s no lie, April 30 is National Honesty Day. Take this opportunity to open up to your friends and loved ones, and encourage them to do the same. Just be sure to wear a thick skin – honest opinions aren’t always as kind as we’d like.

May

Trees provide shelter, oxygen and food – what’s not to love? Get your hands dirty by planting your own on May 16 for Love a Tree Day. Log on to the National Wildlife Federation’s website to learn more about how to plant and nurture the towering flora that give us so much.

June

What’s easy, free, joyful and relieves stress? A smile, of course. On June 15, spread happiness to all you see with an ear-to-ear grin for Smile Power Day. You’ll be amazed at the positive effects this simple gesture can have on everyone around you.

July

Purebred dogs get all the glory, but mutts are just as lovable – and each is unique in its own way. July 31 is Mutt’s Day, the perfect time to give your pup a little extra attention. Not a dog owner? Consider adopting a canine in need of a proper home. Visit www.aspca.org for more information.

August

Thrift shops not only offer a cheaper alternative to traditional shopping options, they are also an out-of-the-box way to recycle. If you’re in the market for some new duds on Aug. 17, also known as National Thrift Shop Day, consider going secondhand. Or, take a stab at cleaning your closet. and donate any unwanted items. Visit www.thethriftshopper.com to find a location near you.

September

Elephant Appreciation Day falls on Sept. 22. On this day, learn all about the lives and struggles of elephants – the largest land mammals on the planet.  The Living With Elephants Foundation, a Botswana-based nonprofit, provides links to several online resources that provide valuable insights about these majestic creatures.

October

Teachers are often the unsung heroes of society, guiding the next generation with knowledge, patience and care. On World Teacher Day, Oct. 5, take a few minutes to celebrate your favorite educators. Even a simple “thank you” is enough to let them know that they’ve made a difference in your life.

November

Since 1997, Nov. 15 has been dubbed America Recycles Day. Today, learn about how you can keep the earth beautiful and spread the word by educating those around you. Go to www.americarecyclesday.org to learn more and get involved.

December

Stand up for oppressed persons all over the world on Dec. 10, Human Rights Day. Regardless of age, gender or income level, everyone has the power to make a difference and help end discrimination.  The UN website offers tons of tips on what you can do to aid those who need it most.

Do you know any other social good days?

For a show about making your dreams come true watch “Jump Shipp” premiering in October 2011 on Halogen TV.