All - Leep Calendar

January is the National Soup Month in the United States. Soups have been an essential component of cuisine for centuries in every culture. Cold or hot, spicy or not, sweet or salty, soups are versatile, economical, hearty, and healthy.

Africa

Jan

Stalking Awareness Month, Ntl.: January

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National Stalking Awareness Month in the United States aims to raise awareness of stalking. Stalking is a serious social issue that happens more often than most realize. Most stalking victims keep it to themselves or fail to realize it is happening. Stalking often leads to rape, murder, blackmail, and theft. Stalking Awareness Month reminds people of the problem and urges us to learn the warning signs.

Africa

Jan

START Child Health Campaign: January

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Africa

Jan

Sunday Supper Month, Ntl: January

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The Sunday Supper Movement seeks to bring families together for dinner each Sunday during January. The second Sunday is set aside for those unable to be together during the entire month. The Sunday Supper Movement movement launched in 2012.

Africa

Jan

Thank You Month, Ntl.: January

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SHOWING GRATITUDE NATIONAL THANK YOU MONTH January marks National Thank You Month—a time set aside to celebrate and practice the power of gratitude. From handwritten notes to simple gestures of kindness, National Thank You Month supporters aim to remind us that a bit of appreciation can go a long way. National Thank You Month is devoted to embracing the spirit of gratitude. It serves as an annual reminder to slow down and acknowledge the efforts of friends, family, coworkers, and even strangers. National Thank You Month originated from tradition after the holiday season. Many people exchange gifts over Christmas, Hanukkah, and other holidays between November and December. National Thank You Month reminds each recipient of the power of a thank you. METHODS OF PARTICIPATION —Greeting Card and Stationery Brands Encourage people to send physical tokens of thanks. —Etiquette Experts Remind individuals that good manners never go out of style. —Community Organizations Help neighbors and communities come together through acts of kindness. WHY SAYING "THANK YOU" IS SO IMPORTANT. Experts in psychology and interpersonal communication emphasize that expressing gratitude: —STRENGTHENS RELATIONSHIPS Acknowledging another person's help, support, or kindness fosters closer bonds. —IMPROVES MENTAL HEALTH Studies show that practicing gratitude can increase optimism and happiness. —ENCOURAGES POSITIVE BEHAVIOR Gracious behavior often creates a ripple effect, inspiring more kindness. —BUILDS SELF-ESTEEM Hearing genuine appreciation can boost confidence while expressing it fosters empathy. FIVE WAYS TO SAY "THANK YOU" WITHOUT SAYING "THANK YOU" —"I appreciate your help." —"Your support made all the difference." —"I couldn't have done this without you." —"You've really been there for me." —"I'm so grateful for everything you've done." Whether it's a quick email, a handwritten note, or a thoughtful text message, National Thank You Month encourages everyone to find a moment—no matter how small—to let others know they're valued. And while January may be the official time for recognition, advocates say the habit of gratitude should extend well beyond the calendar month.

Africa

Jan

Thyroid Awareness Month: January

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Thyroid Awareness Month seeks to educate the public about thyroid disease and help raise money for research. More than 12 percent of the U.S. population will develop a thyroid condition during their lifetime. An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease. Up to 60 percent of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition. Women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems, and one woman in eight will develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime. Most thyroid cancers respond to treatment, although a small percentage can be very aggressive. The causes of thyroid problems are largely unknown. Undiagnosed thyroid disease may put patients at risk for certain severe conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and infertility. Pregnant women with undiagnosed or inadequately treated hypothyroidism experience an elevated risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, and severe developmental problems in their children. Most thyroid diseases are life-long conditions that can be managed with medical attention.

Africa

Jan

Train Your Dog Month, Ntl.: January

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Created in 2011, National Train Your Dog Month promotes The Association of Professional Dog Trainers. This day urges dog owners to take the time and train their dogs properly for the safety of their pets and the family’s enjoyment. Resources are made available throughout the month for pet parents on the event’s website.

Africa

Jan

Tubers and Dried Fruit Month: January

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Jan

Unchain a Dog Month: January

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With temperatures dropping, animals are vulnerable to frostbite and worse. PETA created National Unchain a Dog Month to alert pet owners to the dangers of leaving their pets chained outside during winter. Animals need shelter, just like people. If you cannot bring your pets inside, make sure they have adequate protection and access to food and water that isn't frozen. Also, watch for stray dogs hiding under cars and cats under car hoods. Cats will often crawl into parked cars' engines to keep warm during winter.

Africa

Jan

Veganuary (US/UK/AU): January

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Veganuary is a charity inspiring people to try veganism during January and continue for the rest of the year in the United Kingdom. Recipes and activities are available on the event's website. What does it mean to go vegan? Vegan is not vegetarian, which means you do not eat meat. Veganism is an austere lifestyle movement requiring practitioners to refrain from eating, using, or enjoying any of the following: 1) No meat, dairy, fish, or eggs. 2) No clothing, home furnishings, or tools made from animals, including leather, fur, wool, bone, or silk. 3) No products tested on animals or made with any animal products. 4) No attending or watching entertainment that uses animals, including film, TV, circuses, zoos, rodeos, hunting, and wild animal parks. This event first ran in 2014.

Africa

Jan

Volunteer Blood Donor Month, Ntl.: January

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A LIFE-SAVING GIFT NATIONAL VOLUNTEER BLOOD DONOR MONTH National Volunteer Blood Donor Month raises awareness of the ongoing need for blood and celebrates individuals who donate. Winter weather often hampers donation efforts. This annual observance ensures a steady blood supply for medical emergencies. National Volunteer Blood Donor Month honors regular donors while encouraging new donors to roll up their sleeves and help. During this season, cold and flu outbreaks—and occasionally severe weather—can contribute to blood shortages, making awareness campaigns more urgent than ever. The Red Cross proclaimed National Volunteer Blood Donor Month in January 1970, marking the start of a concerted effort to bolster blood reserves nationwide. Over time, hospitals, community groups, and blood collection agencies have worked together to promote the month and encourage blood donations. Together with the America’s Blood Centers and AABB (formerly the American Association of Blood Banks), they coordinate drives, share educational resources, and shepherd volunteer donors to stabilize the nation’s blood supply. WHAT IS BLOOD DONORSHIP AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Blood donorship refers to the voluntary act of giving blood. Doctors and scientists use it to treat patients who need transfusions due to trauma, surgery, chronic illnesses, or other medical conditions. It’s often hailed as “the gift of life” because: —IMMEDIATE IMPACT A donation can save multiple lives; donated blood can be separated into different components (red cells, plasma, and platelets). —CONSISTENT NEED The demand for blood is constant; someone in the US needs blood every two seconds, according to the American Red Cross. —COMMUNITY SOLIDARITY Donating blood fosters a sense of community responsibility and compassion, uniting people in a shared mission to care for one another. BLOOD TYPES RANKED FROM MOST COMMON TO LEAST. (US population, 2025) O+ (37%) A+ (34%) B+ (8%) O- (7%) A- (6%) AB+ (3%) B- (2%) AB- (1%) Blood type distributions can vary by region and ethnicity, but O+ remains the most common overall. O- is the “universal donor” for red blood cells and is vital in emergencies when a patient’s blood type may be unknown. For medical staff, patients and victims of sudden misadventure, the generosity of volunteer donors can mean the difference between life and death.

Africa

Jan

Walk Your Pet Month: January

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Walk Your Pet Month encourages pet owners to incorporate pet exercise into their New Year resolutions. Like people, domestic pets are increasingly struggling with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Embrace this opportunity to work regular exercise into your life and that of your pets for your health!

Africa

Jan

Wayfinding Month, Intl: January

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GETTING AROUND INTERNATIONAL WAYFINDING MONTH Every January, communities around the globe celebrate International Wayfinding Month—a time dedicated to highlighting the art and science of navigation in our built environments. Wayfinding, the process of determining one’s location and planning routes using visual cues such as maps, signage, landmarks and environmental features, is critical for safe and efficient travel. It is used in everything from cities to parks and airplanes. That "exit" sign is wayfinding. Well thought out wayfinding systems ease travel stress and promote inclusivity and accessibility for everyone. The event was created in 2010 by the now-defunct Wayfinding Institute, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the design and implementation of navigational aids, also known as "wayfinding" in public spaces. The inaugural celebration grew from a small group of wayfinding enthusiasts to a global observance. Traditionally observed over the 31 days of January, International Wayfinding Month encourages cities, institutions and designers to share success stories and to host educational events that spotlight new ideas in signage, mapping and spatial orientation. Participants learn about the history of navigation—from ancient trail markers and hand-drawn maps to today’s GPS and interactive digital displays—and consider how thoughtful wayfinding systems can transform public spaces into more welcoming, efficient and safe places. Wayfinding is more than just finding one’s way—it’s about creating environments that empower people to move confidently through their world. In an era of rapid urban expansion and technological innovation, the message behind International Wayfinding Month remains as vital as ever: when we invest in clear, intuitive navigation, we improve our communities, enhance safety and ultimately help everyone chart a better course through life.

Africa

Jan

Wealth Mentality Month, Intl: January

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SAFEGUARDING WEALTH INTERNATIONAL WEALTH MENTALITY MONTH In January 2023, financial advisors and wealth management firms launched International Wealth Mentality Month to transform how Americans think about money. This annual observance encourages individuals to reevaluate their financial plans and adopt a “wealth mentality,” consisting of beliefs, attitudes, and habits focused on shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. According to practitioners, a wealth mentality goes beyond simply saving or budgeting; it emphasizes cultivating a long-term perspective on financial health. Basic ideas include spending less than you earn, investing strategically, and revising your understanding of money. It is a tool for achieving personal goals, not a source of stress. The event aims to counteract common financial anxieties and the “scarcity mindset,” which can lead to poor financial decision-making. International Wealth Mentality Month promotes various activities, including reviewing financial plans, setting clear and measurable goals, and participating in educational seminars and online workshops. Traditions during the month include focusing on personal spending habits, guided discussions on investment strategies, and addressing the challenges preventing participants from investing. Advocates believe that by embracing a wealth mentality, individuals can overcome deep-seated fears about money—often rooted in childhood experiences—and lay the groundwork for generational wealth. International Wealth Mentality Month catalyzes change individually and within the financial community. It reminds people to manage their money wisely and allows them to redefine what true wealth means.

Africa

Jan

Wheat Bread Month, Ntl.: January

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THE HARVEST'S BEST NATIONAL WHEAT BREAD MONTH National Wheat Bread Month celebrates whole wheat and whole grain breads. Whether made from stone-ground wheat, sprouted grains, or enriched whole wheat flour, these healthy breads offer a texture and flavor from nutty to earthy. Throughout the month, bakers, grocery retailers, and nutrition advocates share recipes and educate consumers on incorporating whole wheat bread into their diets. The Whole Grains Council champions National Wheat Bread Month, which traces back to the early 2000s. Its purpose is to promote whole grains in alignment with healthier eating resolutions. IS WHEAT BREAD MORE NUTRITIOUS? In general, yes. Whole wheat bread from flour that retains the wheat kernel's bran, germ, and endosperm is generally more nutritious. It provides: —HIGH FIBER CONTENT Aids digestion, improves satiety, and can help regulate blood sugar. —MORE NUTRIENTS Whole grains typically offer more B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. —LOWER GLYCEMIC IMPACT Often gentler on blood sugar than many refined white breads. Still, not all wheat breads are created equal. Some labeled "wheat bread" may contain whole wheat and refined flour. Experts recommend looking for "100% Whole Wheat" or checking the ingredients list to ensure the first ingredient is whole wheat flour. TYPES OF BREAD, RANKED BY GLOBAL CONSUMPTION Exact data can vary, but broad market research often finds these general patterns: —WHITE BREAD (≈ 60%) Includes sandwich loaves, baguettes, and many traditional bakery staples made with refined white flour. —WHOLE GRAIN BREAD (≈ 20%) Encompasses 100% whole wheat loaves, multigrain bread, oats and other variants that use whole grains. —FLATBREADS (≈ 10%) Tortillas, naan, pita, chapati, and other culturally significant breads. —SOURDOUGH (≈ 5%) Known for its tangy flavor, created through natural fermentation with wild yeast and lactobacilli. —RYE BREAD (≈ 3%) Popular in parts of Europe and known for its dense texture and robust flavor. —OTHER SPECIALTY BREAD (≈ 2%) Gluten-free, ancient grain (spelt, kamut), and regional specialties not captured above. These percentages are rough estimates based on global production and consumption patterns and will fluctuate by region, cultural preference, and economic factors. National Wheat Bread Month advocates say the best way to celebrate is to try new recipes, read labels carefully, and savor the benefits that come from choosing whole grains—one slice at a time.

Africa