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5 ways to support your community



Even busy moms can show their kids how to help the world

5 ways to support your community


All communities depend in part on the services of volunteers. To keep your rural or urban neighborhood vital, there are always opportunities to give in ways large or small. You'll also add to your network of friends and acquaintances, acquire new skills, and in some cases, support your career. Sometimes your kids can participate, but even if they can't, they'll see how important it is to get involved in the world outside of home and school.

MomBlogSociety.com offers these community service suggestions for parents. Share these ideas with your kids to see which would be of most interest. Get them involved young and they will remain concerns citizens for the rest of their lives.

Volunteer work

Take a look at your schedule and decide how much time you can realistically commit each week. Even an hour or two can make a difference to a library, food pantry, or thrift shop. Also consider your skills to make sure the organization is a good fit. Some groups need a secretary or treasurer, which might mean just attending a monthly meeting and then writing up minutes or paying bills.

Support for local businesses

The Internet and big box stores drain away business from the small companies that are the heart of a town or a neighborhood. Whenever possible, make an effort to buy local. You can also recommend stores or services to friends, follow businesses on social media, and write online reviews if you've had good experiences.

Elderly neighbor checkups

Every community has its share of elders who live alone. If you have neighbors who are widowed or childless and are willing to chat with you, keep tabs on them. Offer to help with chores, take them for walks, or invite them over for meals on holidays, times when loneliness tends to be most acute.

Donations

Besides donating money to causes you believe in, you probably have items in good condition that you can no longer use. They can be offered to thrift shops for resale or to women's shelters for reuse. Get a few friends together to hold a yard sale and donate the proceeds to a local organization.

Environmental action

Plant flowers and bushes to beautify your neighborhood or organize a group to clean up an area marred by trash. Kids can help out, and you're bound to make new friends.



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