Something which we have sadly lost since I was growing up is the sense and the togetherness of what a community brings. There are many factors behind this of course, some couldn’t be helped such as more people moving around with their work as the world got that little bit smaller. Some factors however, as to how the erosion of the community happened, was that many of us became selfish when times got hard, putting more focus on our own situation than that of the community around us. Community gives us strength and it is vital that we reclaim it.
Since working with the American Fundraising Foundation I have learned so much about the importance of helping others and I have seen first hand the massive impact which this can have. Helping in the community doesn’t take much and here are some ways in which you can be a part of positive change.
The Elderly
It is the most vulnerable in our communities who need our help the most and very often that is the elderly people living in our communities. Elderly people suffer a great deal if they don’t have family and friends around them, and loneliness and mobility issues are just the tip of the iceberg. If you know someone in this situation in your community then spend some time with them, invite them for dinner, take the to the supermarket each week, anything that will improve their lives just a little can help.
Church/Religious Center
Churches and religious centers around the world are very often the epicenter of our communities and as such they do a great deal of work in the community, with all of those who need it. If you are at a loss as to what you can do to help then visit the church, mosque, temple or synagogue and offer your support.
Money
You don’t always have to give up your time for a cause such as this and if there are community-based projects which are happening in your area, you can bet your bottom dollar that they need money to survive. If you can’t make the time then at the very least contribute some of your earnings to help them continue that great work.
DIY
Even takin the time to clean up the streets in your neighborhood, paint over graffiti, fix something which is broken can help the community. The idea with this type of work is that it is placing a pride back into where you live, and every one else will see it and be inspired to do the same. Helping the community isn’t just about the people, it is about taking pride in where you are from and motivating others to do the same, in doing this we can bring together the community towards a common goal, ensuring that the community gets stronger and supports each other.
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