(NC) Many people have a sense that they want to do more for the people around them and for their community. But it can be difficult to know where to start. The truth is, supporting people locally and even globally can be simpler than many may expect. Here are a few ways one person really can make a difference:
- Support your neighbours
Often, one of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Seniors in your community appreciate small acts of kindness—shovelling driveways, raking leaves, carrying groceries or simply sharing coffee and conversation. These gestures can combat loneliness and help your neighbours maintain independence during the winter months.
- Find local volunteer opportunities
Community organizations often need extra hands in the winter. Some good opportunities to look for include staffing food drive collection points, organizing donated clothes and toys or helping coordinate charity fundraising events. Blood donations are particularly needed during winter when supplies run low. Volunteering makes these programs possible.
- Become a humanitarian hero
A few clicks can change a life halfway around the world—online charitable donations support families and children experiencing extreme poverty. Organizations like Children Believe use that support to address critical needs like healthcare, clean water, education and safe spaces to play. The impact that even small donations have can be surprising:
- $25 can buy a year’s worth of dental hygiene. For children in underserved communities, poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health complications. Access to toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss can go a long way to supporting their overall health.
- $75 can buy critical mental health support. Nearly one billion people globally live with mental health conditions, yet care remains critically underfunded, especially in conflict zones. A small contribution can provide access to specialized care and medication for families who otherwise have nowhere to turn.
- $100 can give a newborn a start in life. New mothers and babies need essential vitamins and medical checkups. Millions of women and newborns die from preventable causes each year—it doesn’t take much to provide life-saving intervention.
- Create lasting change by giving sustainably
If you’re considering making donations, consider monthly contributions, as opposed to one-time donations. Recurring gifts allow organizations to plan long-term programs and create sustainable change. Even small monthly amounts add up to significant impact—and most organizations will provide regular updates on how your support is making a difference.
- Inspire others to join you
The spirit of giving multiplies when shared. You could host a giving circle where friends or family contribute to a cause together, or organize a donation drive at work. Sharing your volunteering experiences on social media and giving openly can allow others to step up, too.
Don’t discount the power of individual action, even in the face of large issues such as poverty. Even one person stepping up makes a difference, and that impact often ripples out to affect even greater change. You can learn more about ways to give at childrenbelieve.ca.
