Give Back to Your Community

Step1

Volunteer at a local soup kitchen. You will find this to be more rewarding than you think. Most cities, even smaller ones, have at least one place for those less fortunate to get a hot meal. It will only take you a few hours to help out other people.

Step2

Ask your boss if you can place a donation box in your building. You can mix it up and spread out the help to different charities. Perhaps you could do a toy drive around Christmas time, or ask for donations of winter apparel in the fall. Clothing and food would be good year round items to collect.

Step3

Don't toss out your old clothes! Give them to a local church to hand out to those who are in need. Your area may also have a St. Vincent thrift shop or other store that donates to charity. Women's shelters are also generally in need of clothing. Victims of domestic abuse often show up at the shelter with only the clothing on their back. If you want to be certain your clothes will be put to good use, give them to someone you know that could use them, but may not be able to afford them.

Step4

Ring the bell for the Salvation Army. It won't cost you anything and you'll meet lots of people. Help our Veterans sell poppies for a day or two. Offer to sell Lyons Club mints. You get the picture.

Step5

Make a donation to your local food shelter. If you have food that you probably won't use, do not toss it out, give it to someone that needs it. Creamed corn may not be on your table, but many would welcome it. Food is very scarce for many people.

Step6

Offer your services as a tutor or volunteer assistant at your school during special events. If your kids go to the school it's an added bonus, more time with them never gets old.

Step7

If your a deer hunter, donate a deer to Project Venison. The food is distributed to food shelters. There are many different programs out there, just check around.

Step8

Be a mentor to a child, KINSHIP. This is a wonderful program. The rewards are incredible. Your local Boys and Girls club could also use your help. Step9In many areas, the Boy Scouts accept donated aluminum cans. In your area other groups may be collecting the cans, but the idea remains the same.

Remember to always pay it forward freely........never expect something back. That's what it means to GIVE.

These are just a few ideas of how you can contribute for free to help others in need.

Happy Holidays!

Dennis Foley