Three Ways to Improve Your Life and Your Environment!
I was privileged to have a roof over our heads, heat in our home, and food on our table. These were basics and everything else was good fortune. I didn’t volunteer at soup kitchens. I didn’t build houses. As a child, I only donated clothes and toys to charity. Older, my good fortune afforded me college. Over time, I found I had more to give.
Here are 3 easy and great ways to give.
1. Donate your time. I started volunteering in
college. At the local library, I taught basic computer skills to
library patrons. I spent time with individuals and saw the light
bulb click as they began to understand computer tasks. I helped
many people in my community grow resume skills to help get them
jobs. As an added bonus, I connected with community members and
increased my own presentation skills. This is one example of how
I improved many lives, including my own.
Helpful Tip: Don’t get burnt out trying to find the
perfect impactful volunteer opportunity. There are plenty of
opportunities out there, so just focus on finding what interests
you. Big or small, your impact will surely get noticed.
2. Donate dollars. I grew up “spring cleaning”.
My family didn’t have dollars to donate – and that’s ok. We had
perfectly good clothes, shoes, and toys that we simply outgrew.
It is a small effort to collect and drop off items to a local
charity and many people can benefit from this.
Helpful Tip: If you are fortunate to have extra dollars,
do some research and find a nonprofit that interests you. Dollars
stretch far for nonprofits, so even a small amount can make a
large impact!
3. Connect with your community. If you don’t
have the time or the money to donate, keep in mind that being
friendly at the grocery or local hardware store can make a big
difference in someone’s day. A smile goes a long way.
Helpful Tip: Try to find something each day that makes
you smile. It will become infectious.
Above all else, keep your eyes open for opportunities. They are everywhere. Check the local schools, coffee shop message boards, and even ask around at work. If you have a lot of extra time, consider running your own event or collaborate with people who do!
Shannon Keelan is a young professional passionate about improving the lives of others. She uses Intel and United Way Emerging Leaders as means to carry out her theory that it’s what you do that makes a difference.
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