Getting more involved in your community doesn’t need to be as challenging as you think. Any small contributions are always appreciated and can go a long way. It also helps get you more socially active and make new friends, from helping out local sports teams to youth work.
Be More Active with Schools
Being active with schools can be a major benefit if you have children that attend them. Schools often have parent boards that give you access and some control over what goes on in the school. However, this can take up a lot of time and requires some delegation and activity. However, something as simple as school fundraising helps you make your child’s school a little bit better off, as well as offering the chance to get to know some of the other parents.
Get Involved in Your Community Sports Team
Almost every community has a sports team, from soccer and football to baseball and lacrosse. Community sports are typically run by donations, and almost everything has to be done voluntarily. There is a lot of work to do, and it doesn’t all revolve around coaching. Events must be organized, uniforms must be washed, and the kids need transport. Given that 1 in 5 kids has had a mental issue, you can help by being a part of the sport that helps give them a purpose.
Introduce Yourself to Neighbors
It’s always funny how many of us don’t even know our neighbors. Maybe a couple here and there, but community is about acceptance and being inclusive. How can you do that if you don’t even know someone’s name? Community neighbor events such as a cookout are great ways to get everyone involved, and you can take the chance to introduce yourself to those around you. You never know; there might be a best friend among someone you have yet to meet.
Join an organizational Board or Committee
Many boards are made up of non-executive members who serve to drive the institution rather than profits. Because of this, many are easier to join than you might think. A non-profit board, for example, for a housing association, can be a powerful way to get more involved in where you live. It can also help bridge the gap between corporate employees with no ties to a community and the people who live there. As a result, it’s only the community that tends to win out.
Help Out Local Charities
Of course, one of the simplest ways to be more community-active is to help out local charities with the things they typically need. Most charity stores are staffed by local people, so this helps form stronger community bonds when you interact with them. Some ways to get started are:
- Charities like Goodwill will be more than happy to take clothing and bedding.
- You can also volunteer your time rather than money to these charities.
- Food banks welcome staple kitchen pantry goods and baby items mothers can use.
- Local libraries are always on the lookout for books in good condition.
- Animal shelters need some of the same things, as well as cleaning supplies.
- There is a shortage of expensive baby formula across the world right now.
- Quality-of-life items such as TVs and laptops are also in demand today.
- Monetary donations are always welcome and can be put to good use.
You don’t need to try to become a saint in your town. Just helping wherever you can and when you can is more than enough. Charities and other services like food banks will appreciate anything you can do for them. And you will help someone have what they need for a while.
Organize a Neighborhood Cleanup
Pretty much anywhere you go, there are issues such as litter and dumping. Of course, this type of thing is worse in some places than others, but even the most prestigious neighborhoods have common problems and are located near less fortunate ones. A cleanup is a great way to get to know others around you as everyone chips in and helps keep the place clean and safe. Extra support might be needed for serious issues such as needle disposal and toxic waste dumping.
Support the Elderly Community
There are many reasons to visit an old folks home to help out. Often, they are understaffed and could use a hand with light tasks. Many will welcome some volunteer staff to clean up or prepare meals. However, a compelling reason to help out is loneliness. You may have a loving family, but there are those who have nobody to visit them, which is more common among the elderly. It can make someone’s day when another person just sits down for a friendly chat.
Help Youngsters Get Involved in Your Community
Youth crime is always concerning, and there are many reasons why teens and young adults spiral downward. There are around 176,000 murders per year involving youngsters between 15 and 29. Some of the top reasons include conditions such as ADHD, drug abuse, and coming from a violent home. Youth work in your area can help keep kids safe and on the right track. Community-funded projects aim to educate and inform children about today’s problems.
How About Some Time with Animals?
Helping other people is a powerful use of your time and energy. But of course, there are also animals in need of care too. You probably don’t have to go far to find an animal shelter in your community, and they would love some support. If you love animals, this is a great way to connect with some furry friends while supporting the good deeds of the shelter. Grooming, cleaning cages, and even just being with the animals helps them and definitely helps you, too.
Summary
Being active with schools, volunteering and helping out charities, and even spending time with local animal shelters are great ways to be more involved in your community this year. Helping others in these ways keeps you grounded and provides the support others desperately need.
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