Saturday 18 January 2014

Make Community Resolutions



New Year’s is a time for self-improvement (Brabary January 2013 Post #31) but it’s also a time to expand those resolutions to the community around you. What can you do differently in the coming year to improve things for others?

Shop carefully – When you choose to spend your money in locally-owned businesses you’re strengthening the economy of your area. Did you know Barrie has a Farmer’s Market that’s open year-round?

Give back – If you’re new to volunteering, sign up for a one-time event to get your feet wet. You can do this at several organizations until you find one you’d like to commit to regularly. You never know what new passions and interests may emerge.

Spread the love – Whether your kids are accumulating community hours for school, or would just appreciate more time together as a family, looks for places you can all participate.

Senior’s home are often looking to match visitors with residents who don’t have family close by. Your kids can practice their reading while making a real difference to someone who might be feeling lonely.

If you or your children have artistic talents, why not put on a show or teach a class? Have a passion for food? Serve those in need at Out of the Cold or other meal programs.

Close to home – You don’t need to commit to a formal volunteer program. You or your kids can shovel a driveway for an elderly neighbour, or prepare a meal for a family who are going through a tough time right now. That kind of gesture goes so far.

Pay it forward – Buy the person behind you a coffee at the drive-thru. Purge your closet and donate those items to a local charitable organization such as Goodwill, the Diabetes Association (they’ll even pick up), Salvation Army (Barrie Bayside Mission Centre), Collier’s Closet (Collier Street United Church) or your own local church, or the Busby Centre.

Let’s bring back the community feeling. It’s so amazing how these acts can ripple through the entire community. 

No comments:

Post a Comment