Writer’s Corner
How to Support Your Community During COVID-19
Meredith Jones
If there is a silver lining to turmoil, it is the drive to reflect. Right now, many of us see the challenges people are facing all over the world, and we feel called to do something. Volunteering your time, labor, and talents can help move your community toward a better tomorrow. Here’s a look at the benefits of volunteering, and a few ideas for how to get started:
Why Should You Volunteer?
What are the personal and communal benefits of volunteering?
Volunteering can guide you down the path toward your sacred purpose.
It also improves both your physical and mental health.
Working for others empowers you to make a positive change in your world.
Addressing Food Insecurity
The current crisis has exacerbated food insecurity problems for many:
Support local food banks, especially those serving populations in food deserts.
Consider volunteering to do grocery runs for elderly or immuno-compromised community members.
Hunger is an intuitive human problem, making it a great opportunity for teaching children to volunteer.
Underserved Populations
The pandemic affects people unevenly. Here’s how to help the ones who need it most:
Fight homelessness in your community and support people without a stable home.
Support companies that take measures to protect their front-line workers.
Gather support for universal basic income efforts to ensure financial security for all.
Caring for Nature
The pandemic cannot put planet-saving efforts on hold:
Consider local litter pick-up efforts to support your region’s environment.
Advocate for environmentally-friendly business practices.
Move toward a zero-waste lifestyle.
Protect the local ecosystem by helping to lower the homeless pet population.
Plant a pollinator-friendly garden to support bees and butterflies.
Volunteering for your community can help to bring about the change the world needs. Do not let the grief of the moment halt you in your path. You have the power to make a difference.
Photo Credit: Unsplash