For example, help an elderly man or woman cross a busy street. Or, give a few dollars to a homeless person. Better yet, buy them a meal and chat with them while they eat. If you see someone struggling to open a heavy door or carry a heavy package, go and help them.
For example, if a co-worker recently lost a loved one, say something like, “I’m so sorry, that’s hard to go through. If you want to talk about it, I’m happy to sit and listen. ” Or if a friend is having a hard time in school, say, “That sucks. Sorry you’re struggling so much this term. Let’s have a coffee; want to talk about your classes?”
For example, you could mentor a young person in your area through the Big Brothers or Big Sisters program. Many churches or social groups (like the Boy Scouts) also encourage mentorship programs.
For example, you could mentor a young person in your area through the Big Brothers or Big Sisters program. Many churches or social groups (like the Boy Scouts) also encourage mentorship programs.
Volunteer at a local homeless shelter or food bank. Help out the Red Cross or Salvation Army. Build homes in your area with the Habitat for Humanity. Volunteer at a local hospital or hospice.
Find out where you can donate by searching online. Type in something like “how to donate blood today near me. ”
For example, research and vote on often-overlooked local issues like taxation, city management, and county regulations.
If you already have a job, look for ways that you can help the community through your place of employment, such as volunteer opportunities or public outreach. [4] X Research source Rosenberg, Amber. Personal interview. 26 February 2020.
If you’re unable to pay your taxes, talk to an accountant and see if they can offer any suggestions about deferring tax payments.
You don’t have to restrict yourself to financial giving. Many charities, for example, will accept donations of used vehicles or clothing.
For example, if you see someone with a dead car battery, show them how to jump the car. Or, teach kids in your neighborhood useful outdoor skills. Teach them how to pitch a tent, light a fire, or sharpen a knife. If you’re a mechanic—or just good at fixing things—you could show a few neighbors how to change a flat tire, change the tire on a bicycle, or repair simple engines.
For example, you could study farming or agriculture in college. After graduating, you could return to the community you grew up in and help people there develop better farming practices. Or, you could get a BA and an MA in psychology, then open a private practice to counsel those struggling with negative thoughts or mental illness.
Sharing specialized knowledge is a great way to use your higher education to benefit society.
For example, if your clothes are wearing out, mend them rather than trashing them. Or, donate the worn clothes to a local branch of the Salvation Army or other charity. Also avoid buying materials that aren’t biodegradable, like Styrofoam.
When you reduce your carbon footprint and help preserve the environment, you’ll also help the health of people in your community.
If you’d like to plant a tree in a public park (or another city-owned area), you’ll need to contact city hall and fill out the necessary paperwork. If you’re so inclined, you could also do a little research to find out what types of trees are native to your area.
If you’d like to purchase solar panels, check at large home-supply stores. You can also reach out to local contractors to do the actual installation.
