Help those who need help
Volunteering not only provides much needed help, but at the end of the day, makes you feel good as well. There's something about using some of your spare time to provide assistance - something much more valuable than monetary donations. Research shows that these activities promote wellbeing (McMunn et al., 2009) - and if you're volunteering outside of work or school groups, you're also bound to meet people with similar interests! Volunteering for environmental organizations or clean-up days can be just as rewarding as volunteering at a pet shelter. Although everyone has different interests, below I've listed my favourites to spark some inspiration.
Click the name to be linked to the website associated with the organization.
Click the name to be linked to the website associated with the organization.
TREC EducationTeach students about sustainability and the environment. This one's a favourite of mine for their flexibility in becoming involved.
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Habitat for HumanityGet physical (hammer out that anger!) while helping build someone a house. House-owners are required to help out, so there's a chance you might meet the people you're helping!
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Local Humane SocietyVolunteering at a shelter gives animals without owners their own time to be happy - and when has a purring cat or cuddly dog made anyone stressed? And who knows? Maybe you'll take one home!
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Other ways to help
Sometimes it's difficult to become involved with organized volunteering, especially when you have a changing schedule and prior commitments to take care of. The following ideas are great ways to do your part without jumping into another commitment. Plus, many of them have great benefits to the environment.
Clean up |
Consider organizing a clean-up of a nearby beach or park, or, when the mood hits, do it alone or with a friend! Make sure you bring enough supplies such as gloves (preferably reusable, thick ones), and garbage/recycling bags.
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Donate |
Donate your old clothes, toys, appliances, and home goods to your local thrift store. This is a great way to divert waste from the landfill while helping to help your home less cluttered (and therefore your mind!). But it doesn't end there - places such as Habitat ReStore accept building materials like lumber, flooring, and even paint cans that are leftover from your latest renovation. The best part is that these are resold to help those who can't afford new materials or those just looking for half a can of paint, allowing you to buy what you need.
If the Crafting page on this website has turned you into a knitting pro, consider donating your creations. Many pet shelters will take your knitted blankets, as will homeless shelters. Check in with your local shelter before donating or beginning a new project - there might be guidelines for what is acceptable. |