4 Ways You Can Support Your Community
It’s never been more vital that we support our communities in every way possible. It’s where you live, where your friends and families live, where you go or did go to school, where you shop and eat, and maybe where you work, too. So during this time of uncertainty in the world, how can we best support our communities and the small businesses within them?
Chances are, you’re probably already supporting your community in small ways you didn’t even think about. But here are four additional ways that would help immensely right now.
Shop Local
There are quite a few benefits from shopping locally, you’re not only supporting your local economy, you’re also helping individuals in your community.
Whether it’s using independently-owned service providers, eating at mom and pop style restaurants, or shopping at your local farmer’s market, you’re not only getting to meet people in your community – you’re also helping to financially support it.
In some cases, shopping locally may be more expensive. However, if you’re able to afford it, it absolutely makes a difference.
Volunteer
Lending a helping hand to the community is a great way to do some good, meet people, and have fun!
There are numerous volunteer opportunities you can pick from. If you love kids or want to be a future nanny or teacher, you could work at a church daycare. If you love animals, animal shelters always need extra help – even if it’s just coming to play with the animals for a bit.
Volunteering is a fantastic way to not only be helpful, but also meet people, build your resume, and get involved! Here’s a great site to find opportunities near you.
Donate
If you no longer like, use, or need something – don’t just trash it, donate it! By donating you’re not only allowing someone to purchase something at a lower price, but you are reducing the amount of waste that goes into your community’s landfills.
We all have shirts in our closets that we’ve not worn in years, or books that we’ve read and won’t read again. These, along with shoes, appliances, decor, etc… are all great things to donate. Another bonus for you, you’re decluttering, which many of us could benefit from!
Pick Up
It’s likely a rule (at least an unspoken one) in your home and should be in your community as well. First, pick up after yourself. Don’t litter, and don’t leave anything behind when you go someplace. Unless it’s completely biodegradable, whatever you bring with you should leave with you, too.
Not everyone is going to follow this rule, and a lot of people are mindless about where they leave their trash. If it’s feasible and you see trash lying around, it’s an excellent opportunity to help the community, in a small way, by simply picking it up.
You can even take it a step further if you want and plan a community cleanup. Here are some steps on how to get involved.
What are your favorite ways to get involved and help your community? Share your ideas in the comments below!
Alyson Pittman is a contributing writer for WBD and a JR marketing associate for Excite Creative Studios, an Atlanta-based creative agency.
Alyson graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelors of Business Administration and a concentration in Marketing. She was in multiple organizations at KSU where she held leadership positions. As a part of the Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority, Alyson held the Social Coordinator position and planned/promoted large events.
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