Many argue that giving back is the ultimate meaning of life. Charitable giving has an undeniable impact on the communities it serves, but it also benefits those doing the serving as much as those on the receiving end. If you’re interested in contributing to the betterment of both society and yourself, consider just a few of the easiest ways to get involved and make the world a better place. 

1. Distribute Masks

Often, volunteering means accounting for unexpected disasters, and COVID-19 has been just one example of how a community’s needs can quickly grow from dormant to dire. Community centers such as the Sullivan Community Space are doing their part by distributing free masks to those with limited funds or access to adequate facial protection. 

2. Take a Dog for a Walk 

If you’re looking for volunteer work that hardly even feels like a job, consider volunteering at an animal shelter or humane society. Shelters often rely on volunteers to socialize their pets by taking a friendly dog for a short walk around the property or cuddling with a purring cat in search of a warm lap. This is especially helpful for older animals who may not get as much attention as younger and more vibrant pets. 

3. Serve Warm Meals 

One of the most popular ways to volunteer is to supply dishes or serve warm meals to those who aren’t sure when they’ll next have access to fresh food. Many local food banks and homeless shelters offer opportunities to distribute meals, especially on holidays when those in need experience the greatest financial and emotional burdens, putting a smile on your face as well as theirs. 

4. Grow a Community Garden 

For an additional way to improve a community’s access to nutritious meals, consider starting a community garden. You can teach local citizens how to grow and maintain crops, as well as how to harvest and utilize them. This offers the community greater self-sufficiency, increases the overall nutritional value of available foods, and reduces the amount of money community members spend on necessary groceries. 

5. Start a Fundraiser or Supply Drive

Like the Sullivan Community Space About Us demonstrates, there are a number of ways you can marry business and mission work. Starting a fundraiser or supply drive is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this, as you can do so from the comfort of your own home or company premises. Get creative with ways to incentivize contribution, such a fundraising via a bake sale or offering a prize to the employee who collects the most items for donation. 

6. Play Games With Seniors 

If you prefer to work one-on-one with people, volunteering at a long-term care facility is one of the most fulfilling ways you can spread joy in your community. Seniors often lack adequate outlets for socializing and simply want someone with whom they can play a game of checkers or have real-life conversations. Volunteers often leave senior homes with an invaluable collection of life stories. 

7. Donate Money or Resources 

Supply drives and fundraisers may be the most common way that people donate resources to those in need, but there are less traditional donation methods that are equally, if not more, valuable. If you are able to do so, donating blood or plasma can literally save lives, and requires no money or recurring commitments on your part. 

No matter how you choose to serve your community, doing so can brighten up the lives of those without access to basic human needs. Donating your time and energy ensures a better you, a better community, and a better world.