With all the chaos in the world right now, it’s natural to want to lend a hand and do some good in your community. However, during these unprecedented times, many of us are stuck in our houses feeling hopeless and at a loss. How can you make the world a better place when you can’t even step outside your front door?
Well, we’re here to tell you that there are ways that you can make a difference. There are a great number of organizations that rely on the help of remote volunteers to make their missions a success.
If you are feeling as if you’re not giving enough during these unpredictable times, and you want to get involved, then check out these ideas and organizations that need your help now.
Foster An Animal
While you are holed-up in your house, why not consider fostering an animal? Of course, only if your landlord allows and only if you have a good environment to care for a pet.
Fostering an animal can bring joy to your life, as well as theirs. Seriously, they could be the ultimate quarantine-buddy and help to reduce stress, anxiety, and worry.
Taking in a dog or cat also helps shelters to make room for more pets without a home so that there are fewer animals hungry on the streets.
If you’re interested in fostering a furry friend, check out #StayHomeAndFoster, a program set up as a coronavirus shelter emergency response.
The Letter Project
Some people are really good with their words, and if that’s you, then now is the time to get involved in The Letter Project.
The Letter Project is just how it sounds, it’s a program where you send letters to people in need. The original intent of this program was to encourage girls and women of all ages, especially when they were going through difficult times. However, right now there are other timely opportunities through this program, as well.
The Letter Project is currently writing letters to essential workers and hospitals, thanking them for their service. It may not seem like you’re doing much, but a ‘thank you’ in the form of a letter can help our essential workers to keep going, knowing that we need them and appreciate them.
Be An Advocate
If there is a program or organization that you feel strongly about, there are ways to be an advocate and ally to them with just a little help from social media.
Simply spreading the word about the cause you are passionate about on your personal pages can have a great effect on an organization’s mission. Word-of-mouth is still the strongest form of marketing, and at a time when everyone feels like giving to the greater good, this strategy has the ability to make a huge impact.
You could also consider starting a virtual fundraiser for an organization you feel passionate about. Facebook makes it easy to do with an internal feature, but there are other sites such as GoFundMe and Kickstarter which are user-friendly, as well.
Be An Emotional Support
Everyone, especially during these difficult times, is struggling in some way. So, why not put your worries aside for a few minutes and become an emotional support to others?
7-Cups, an online therapy resource makes it easy for individuals to seek help when they need it, no matter what time of day it is or where they live. Signing up to be a volunteer listener is not something that can be taken lightly. You are a lifeline to people in need, so only commit to this if you have the emotional endurance to do so.
Sometimes, all anyone needs is a listening ear.
-Laurie Riihimaki
Photo: Bigstock
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