The Importance of Giving & 4 Easy Ways to Help Your Community
These days, giving comes in various forms with different meanings. We have philanthropists trying to make their voices heard for different causes, billionaires and celebrities giving large sums of money to charities, and people giving small donations to organizations they support. Giving is often associated with money, but it is also about time and effort.
Why is Giving Important?
Poverty, rising housing costs, inflation, and systemic inequities have led to growing numbers of people in need. Alongside this, pollution and resource overconsumption is damaging our environment and its ecosystems. Quality of life has diminished across the board, particularly for the vulnerable (elderly, youth…etc) and marginalized (racial minorities, those with disabilities, those identifying as LGBTQIAA+…etc).
“For it is in giving that we receive.” – Francis Assisi
4 Easy Ways to Give Back to Your Community
There are several ways you can give to the less fortunate in your local community. Here are 3 major ones:
1. Volunteer For Nonprofits & Charities
Become a volunteer for an organization with a green or humanitarian cause. Whether it’s helping to make and deliver hot meals for the elderly, fundraising, or running events to spread awareness about an issue, you can make a difference in the lives of others. It only takes a few hours out of your week.
2. Try Walking, Biking, or Taking Public Transport to Work/School
Did you know that if just one person replaces their 20-mile round-trip car commute with public transportation, they reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by 4,800 pounds? It’s also a less costly option since you won’t need to pay for gas. Biking and walking are even better options for your daily commute. Not only will you help the environment, but you’ll also get the exercise you need for good health.
3. Give DIY Gifts Out of Recycled/Reused Materials
Instead of buying gifts from the store, recycle and/or reuse materials you already have to make something. You can use fabric from old clothes, recycled bottles, and more. Your family, friends, and colleagues will appreciate a gift you made yourself since it requires more effort than buying something. It’s a win-win situation for the environment and your gift recipients!
Related article: Upcycling: Benefits & Items to Repurpose
4. Donate to Organizations With Good Causes
Many organizations are fighting climate change and inequity, but they need financial support to make an impact. By donating a few dollars to a nonprofit you believe in, you’re helping both the environment and the wellbeing of your family.
Organizations like Green Schools Green Future aim to educate children about sustainability and eco-friendly living to create the responsible green leaders our planet needs. Our schools will run on renewable energy and teach students to grow their own produce, sell it to the community, and practice healthy eating habits. Through hands-on learning and community engagement, our youth will be equipped to make more sustainable decisions to influence the world.
Help us build our first green school to give children the hands-on skills they need to thrive. Together we can empower the next generation of responsible green leaders for a healthier planet!
