Make a Difference – Community

Community starts at home, moves into your neighborhood and migrates into your town, city, state and beyond. Once you’ve started to make changes in your home you can begin to find ways to help in your community. It doesn’t take a lot of time to help. Even 30 minutes here and there can make a difference in people’s lives.

• When you take a morning walk take a trash bag. Pickup any litter you find along the roadside. You’ll help keep the neighborhood clean and get your exercise in.
• Start shopping at local businesses. Not only will you help your fellow neighbors stay in business, a portion of their sales tax goes back into your community.
• Spread the word about businesses you visit. If you know of a great local restaurant, grocery store or boutique store then spread the word. There is no greater advertisement for those in your community than word of mouth.
• Attend as many local events as possible. Encourage local events by actively participating in them. It helps bring positive energy to the community as well as help your bond well with your family and friends at the events.
• Engage with your local officials. One of the best ways to help the community is to ensure that those in office know what they are doing right and what they are doing wrong. Let them know what your thoughts are and that they are being held accountable for their decisions.
• Keep your house clean and nice. Plant some flowers, clean up the debris regularly. All of these things help to push your neighbors to do the same.
• Help your neighbor. Simple acts of helping out your neighbors will go a long way in building harmony in the neighborhood.
• Find out where the opportunities are for you to donate. Look for opportunities in your own community to donate. You will find plenty of them. Don’t worry about the amount of money you can afford to donate. Whatever you can donate comfortably, just do it. Every penny counts.

Taking a few minutes out of your day or your week can make a difference in your community as well as in your family. One act of kindness promotes others to do the same. Soon enough there are numerous people offering ways to help your community.