Anyone who has read my blogs or stopped by for a conversation knows that I am fond of obsessive fans who channel their energies into volunteer work. In the Phoenix/Mesa areas we have a number of groups who do good works for a cause while letting their geek flag fly. During August we had visits from the Arizona Browncoats and the Arizona Avengers. Bonus question: What does Serenity and The Avengers have in common? They were both written and directed by Joss Whedon.

This year marks the 10th annivesary of the television series Firefly. This short-lived but well loved series has spawned a worldwide group of fans referred to as Browncoats. With their passion for the series and subsequent film Serenity, Browncoats around the globe channel their love of the show and disappointment over its cancellation by hosting charity screenings, fundraisers and social gatherings. On August 18 we held the Firefly 10th Anniversary Celebration with the help of Kiki's Cupcake Service and The Arizona Browncoats. We had origami demonstrations and Firefly-related food including Reever Pops and Mudders Milk. Fans gathered around local musician Paul Knight for a Hero of Canton sing-a-long, listening to folk covers and the Firefly theme song. In just two hours fans donated over 125 pounds of food for the United Food Bank in Mesa. Raffles included Firefly companions, T-shirts and free tickets to the 2012 Can't Stop the Screening charity event.

"You can't take the sky from me."

The very next weekend we invited fans of all ages to become superheroes for their community. We challenged families and friends to bring in donations for the children of the Child Crisis Center and enticed them with an awesome Iron Man Peavey Guitar! Superhero fans of all ages came out to drop off their donations, took pictures with The Arizona Avengers and created their own superhero masks. We even had a special appearance by BookMan himself! He set his sites on showing children that reading is fun.

It was a great time to hang out with the Punisher, Ghost Rider, members of S.H.I.E.L.D and other costumed characters. A rep from My Child's Ready shared information about their free programs for families in need. Thank you to all of the fantastic friends we made and we appreciate all of your support in giving back to the Mesa community.

Volunteering can be fulfilling and fun with the right group of people. I challenge you to find one that fits your needs. Giving back and having fun has a whole new meaning. So show off your secret identity and keep on flying!