Small actions can have a big impact. And, they can also have a ripple effect. If you’d like to make a positive difference in your community – and beyond – here are some easy ways to get started.
Many seniors who still live at home need assistance with basic home maintenance duties, especially yardwork. If you’re shoveling snow, raking leaves, or mowing the grass, spend some extra time and take care of your elderly neighbor’s lawn.
You can also organize a meal train for a friend after a birth, surgery, or illness. They’ll appreciate a home-cooked meal while they’re recovering. Or, swap child-care services with other parents in your neighborhood. You’ll each get to enjoy a date night – and save on babysitting costs.
Another way you can give back is to create care packages for homeless people in your community. Include bottled water, nonperishable foods, and personal hygiene items. During the cold winter months, add gloves, scarves, and blankets to help them stay warm.
For more ideas, practice random acts of kindness or dedicate yourself to an entire month of generosity.
Go through your belongings and donate unused or duplicate items to local homeless shelters or community organizations that provide services to low-income families. Bonus: your donation may be tax-deductible.
The American Red Cross is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade, causing delays in vital medical treatments. If you’re able, donating critically needed blood and platelets can help end the blood crisis and save lives. You can also support the Red Cross by making a financial donation.
Many nonprofit organizations rely on volunteers to fulfil their mission. If there’s a cause that’s close to your heart, see if there’s a local organization you can help support with your time and talents, such as:
Many organizations also have remote volunteer opportunities available, so you can make a difference without leaving the comfort of your home.
Need more ideas? Volunteer Match connects people with organizations that match their interests.
Whether you choose to participate in a formal program like Big Brothers, Big Sisters or prefer a more casual arrangement, someone in your community can benefit from your experience, attention, and knowledge. Reach out to youth mentoring programs or local neighborhood groups to see how you can be of service.
Supporting your local mom-and-pop shops – instead of national chains or online retailers – is a great way to benefit your local economy. When you buy local, nearly 70% of your money stays in your community, compared to about 40% of purchases made at corporate chains. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, you’ll also help create demand for more local jobs.
An easy way to improve your community is to remove litter and pick up trash from public parks. You could also help plant a community garden or create a community mural (contact your local officials first!).
You can create a positive impact in your community by voting for local, county, city, and state officials who represent your beliefs.
Living a low-waste lifestyle is good for the planet. Besides recycling, here are some tips to make a sustainable difference.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint:
Learn to Reuse:
Conserve Energy and Water:
As the saying goes, you can’t give from an empty cup. Take care of yourself, and it will be easier to give back. Eat well, exercise, drink plenty of water, and get enough sleep. Make time for your emotional health too: daily meditation, practicing mindfulness, and a gratitude journal will do wonders for your mood and attitude.