Giving Back

     In this new year, it's common for people to make resolutions regarding themselves. The stereotypical "lose weight, exercise more, save money" promises. But this year, try something different, like pledging to serve others. 

     Over the past few years, I've been involved in many different types of volunteer work. From serving at banquets, sorting clothes, cleaning bathrooms, to painting houses. I've also been able to work with lots of great organizations. I know right now that the economy is still unstable, and that we may be tempted to focus on providing for ourselves, but there are always people who need our help. Personally, I feel like the focus is always on missions and volunteer work in other countries, and while that is important as well, we can neglect the hurt in our own communities.

     Last month I spent a morning volunteering at a homeless shelter in my hometown. One of the things we did was go to a little patch of woods on the corner of a street. There was a little alcove of trees that had been surrounded by branches, and once we entered, it was apparent that people had been living there. We picked up empty bottles, pieces of clothing, used toilet paper and other random trash. I had driven by that little patch of woods a million times, and had absolutely no idea that there were people living there. 

     Long story short, there are people in need all around us, no matter where you live. I know sometimes it's tempting to just donate some money and feel good about ourselves, but I encourage you to donate time instead. Make a real sacrifice. Find a local organization to assist and get involved serving others. (Churches also usually have many events and opportunities for service.)

Here's a few great places to look into:

Goodwill: Always needs donations of clothes, furniture, books and other items for their thrift stores, which you can also volunteer at.

Habitat for Humanity: An organization that I personally have worked with that builds houses for the less fortunate. So much fun if you can get a group of friends and do a whole house together.

Salvation Army: Another donations-and-thrift-store-type organization. You'll see them a lot during Christmas with their little red buckets and bells standing in front of stores.

ASPCA: I've always wanted to work at an animal shelter and just have never gotten the chance. Obviously a   fun choice if you love animals.