The most limited resource people have is time. When thinking about investing or donating, we often consider money or physical assets. But in reality, dedicating time to a cause or foundation in local communities pays off tenfold, too. There are many ways, both one-time and ongoing, to help in neighborhoods and in many cases all they cost is time. The best part is that you can include friends and family members, and maybe even get a workout while at it.
PLOGGING
This silly word may sound like a dance or sport, but it's a Swedish-coined term for adding trash pickup to fitness jogs or walks. Head to a favorite park on a nice spring day for a workout, but be sure to grab a trash bag. Along the way, spend some extra time beautifying the area by clearing it of waste.
MENTORING
Regardless of professional background or life journey, you have sound advice to offer local youth. Joining a program, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, speaking at a local school or even offering an ambitious student to job-shadow you for a day are all easy ways to dedicate time to the next generation. Showing them that they matter and that their ambitions are valid can help keep them inspired to pursue their dreams.
BOARD COMMITTEE
If you have a particular interest in an area of government, head to city hall to see if any volunteer-led committees are looking for citizen volunteers. There are often committees or commissions serving on advisory panels in areas such as sustainability, beautification, event planning, zoning, finances and more that look for the collective opinions of neighborhood representatives. These commissions are important, and can make meaningful impacts directly to communities.
SHELTER HELP
For those who typically walk for exercise, letting a furry friend join you is an easy way to help out. Local dog rescue shelters often allow volunteer walkers to come reprieve the cooped up pets to get some exercise and spend time outdoors, away from their noisy kennels.