How one person can do something for the betterment of the community

The more people we have in the community willing to dedicate their time and efforts to helping out others, the better off we all are. I don’t know about you, but there’s something about seeing one person go out of their way to do something good that really sticks with me. It’s as if I feel like it shows just how much potential we have as humans to do great things. That’s why today, I wanted to share some of my favorite examples of how one person could do something truly special that impacted the entire community around them positively and how you can start.

Pick one action to take

Next time you’re feeling apathetic about helping your community, ask yourself what one action you could take. Can you volunteer at a local organization? Could you attend a local fundraiser? Is there one underprivileged family in your neighborhood that could use some help? No matter how large or small, find one action to take that would make an impact on your community and do it! I guarantee you’ll feel great afterward.

Why it will make a difference

I believe that, in general, we have a hard time understanding how our actions and behaviors make a difference to someone. Sometimes it’s obvious, like if you gave up your seat on the bus so an elderly lady could sit down (but only sometimes). But most times, it’s not readily apparent to us what impact our behavior has. As a result, many of us don’t act because we don’t think it will make any difference. But even when we do make an effort to give back and help out others, it’s still often difficult to see how one person makes such a huge difference in someone else’s life.

What you have to gain

Volunteering your time for a cause you believe in is one of those things that makes you feel great. You know, they say it feels so good to help people—and it’s true! But volunteering has some big benefits, too. Helping others gives us a sense of purpose, and volunteering can make you more empathetic. Helping someone exchanges energy with them.  You receive, they give.  Yes, you read it right.  They give and you receive.  They give you their trust by receiving the gift.  This outpouring of gratitude is your gift.  Can you feel it?  Try it.  A win-win situation.

Share your story with friends

You don’t have to be famous to make a difference in your community. In fact, some of society’s greatest good is done by people whose names will never appear in headlines or on statues. One person CAN make a difference, and you should share your story with friends and family so they can help you create an even greater impact in your community or for those who need it anywhere they may be on the planet.

Repeat every week!

Think about what you’re passionate about and how you could get involved with a local initiative that would contribute to your area’s overall betterment. Volunteering is not just good for your own personal well-being; it helps to strengthen communities and can even lead to bigger opportunities. If you want to make a difference in your neighborhood, find out what volunteer events are taking place near you—and get involved! –MM