New Year’s is a time for self-improvement (Brabary January 2013 Post #31) but it’s also a time to expand those resolutions to the community around
you. What can you do differently in the coming year to improve things for
others?
Shop carefully – When you choose to spend your money in
locally-owned businesses you’re strengthening the economy of your area. Did you
know Barrie has a Farmer’s Market that’s open year-round?
Give back – If you’re new to volunteering, sign up for a
one-time event to get your feet wet. You can do this at several organizations
until you find one you’d like to commit to regularly. You never know what new
passions and interests may emerge.
Spread the love – Whether your kids are accumulating
community hours for school, or would just appreciate more time together as a
family, looks for places you can all participate.
Senior’s home are often looking to match visitors with
residents who don’t have family close by. Your kids can practice their reading
while making a real difference to someone who might be feeling lonely.
If you or your children have artistic talents, why not put
on a show or teach a class? Have a passion for food? Serve those in need at Out
of the Cold or other meal programs.
Close to home – You don’t need to commit to a formal
volunteer program. You or your kids can shovel a driveway for an elderly
neighbour, or prepare a meal for a family who are going through a tough time
right now. That kind of gesture goes so far.
Pay it forward – Buy the person behind you a coffee at the
drive-thru. Purge your closet and donate those items to a local charitable
organization such as Goodwill, the Diabetes Association (they’ll even pick up),
Salvation Army (Barrie
Bayside Mission Centre), Collier’s Closet (Collier Street United Church)
or your own local church, or the Busby Centre.
Let’s bring back the community feeling. It’s so amazing how
these acts can ripple through the entire community.
