7 Things You Can Do to Help Others

Do you ever ask yourself if you are doing enough to help others or if there is more you could be doing to make an impact on your community and your world? You are welcome to be inspired by the ideas below:

1. ................................... Why don’t you volunteer to work at your community centre or a local charity organisation to help prepare hot meals for those that need them? You can also put together food baskets and distribute them to specific families you know who may be struggling.

2. ................................... Beautifully wrapped boxes can make anybody’s day. Why don’t you pick up some extra toys, wrap them, and donate them to a local orphanage or a children’s hospital. It would be a nice idea to write a note to go with the gift too.

3. .................................... Do not pretend that you don’t see the homeless in the streets. Change your perspective and acknowledge their presence. We can make a big change in their day by starting with a warm greeting or a sincere smile. This shows them that their presence is just as valuable as that of a businessman walking down the street with a briefcase, or a new-born baby being pushed around in a pushchair.

4. ................................... Why don’t you go through your wardrobe and pull out all the clothes you no longer wear? You can donate these clothes to orphanages, homeless shelters or a local charity organisation. Your extra clothes might mean a lot to someone who wears the same thing every day.

5. ................................... Many children around the world do not have the opportunity to live, laugh, love, and feel like their presence is worthwhile in the world. It might be a great idea to visit children in orphanages, foster homes, and children’s hospitals. Show your full attention by reading to them, engaging in a fun art project or playing games. Those few hours of love and laughter are enough to keep them going through the many hard times they may face. They will never forget those moments of love they receive from you.

6. ................................... Do not wait for a special day or event to show your love and care. Try writing a card to express your love for a person in your life on a random Tuesday. Or offer to get something done for a family member whenever you can. Give someone a hug at a random point in the day to show them how much you care for them. These small acts of kindness are simple but meaningful.

7. ................................... You can easily find out about several community service projects or nonprofit organisations online. You can also visit http://www.volunteermatch.org, which specializes in volunteer projects in your area. You can choose any topic or cause that interests you. It might be homelessness, animals, the environment, children or poverty. There is something for everyone.