Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” During this festive time of year, giving back comes to the forefront of our minds. Have you been playing around with the idea of volunteering but haven’t had a chance yet? Does it often feel like something that’s last on your list because you just don’t know where to start or what you could give?
You don’t need to be rich or spend all your spare time in order to make the difference in someone else’s life. Let’s take a look at some fun and different ways you can start to give back to your community and those around you.
- Share Your Talents. There are tons of places looking for volunteers to help with activities for kids. Look around your community and notice how many schools, after school care programs, YMCAs or mentorship programs you see. These places are always looking for extra volunteers willing to put their talents to use. You could help a child learn to paint a picture. Teach a kid to ride a bike or jump rope. One phone call could change the life of a child and you!
- Share Your Smarts. What’s your favorite subject? Are you a math whiz? Love writing stories in your spare time? Or maybe you’re a history buff? We’ve all got something we’re good at, consider sharing your smarts with local students. Check with schools and after school programs in your area and see what opportunities they have for volunteers.
- Share Your Time with Seniors. Want to give back to those that are older and wiser? Visit a local senior or community center. They are always looking for volunteers. You could run an art or dance class. Maybe play cards and hear some awesome stories. It only takes a little bit of your time to arrange and your time is the best gift you can give.
- Share Your Baking. Do you have a love for baking? Next time, double your batch and bringing some goodies to your neighborhood fire or police station, nursing home or soup kitchen. Such a small gesture goes a very, very long way.
Out of Ideas? Looking for some other ways to give back in your community? Head to VolunteerMatch.org and see if they can help find more opportunities near you!