In a world in chaos, sometimes the best way for people to feel grounded is to help others. It has to be said that helping others can feel challenging at a time when completing the simplest of tasks – going to the grocery store, talking to a friend or finding basic supplies – is already taking up valuable energy and time. But during a crisis, such as the one we are facing, being part of the best of humanity, even in the smallest of ways, can give you and your family a much-needed lift and help everyone regain a sense of control.
We have already seen the lasting effects of the power of positivity. For anyone who has watched a video of quarantined Italians serenading each other from their balconies or people cheering the heroism of our first responders, you know it doesn’t take much to change the trajectory of our feelings from hopelessness to hope –if for only a moment.
And stringing together those moments is what is needed right now, because if COVID-19 is doing what it can to bring the worst to the world, maybe people can bring out the best. For a moment in time, our differences can be eclipsed by an overwhelming need to embrace humanity – good can beat scary after scary upped the game.
If you’ve called your grandmother to check in on her, bought groceries for a neighbor, or helped a child work through some tough times, you’ve already made a difference. But if you are wondering how you can do more, we’ve got you covered.
Volunteer Remotely
Alone is an organization that provides companionship to the elderly. There’s an option to become a telephone volunteer where you call and check in at least two hours each week.
Help with the Crisis Text Line, where you would be a remote crisis counselor. The remote volunteer service includes free training on how to answer texts from people who reach out.
iCouldBe is a student mentorship program where you dedicate one hour each week for the school year. The program provides you with online activities and conversation starters.
Start Sewing
With an increasing need for masks to protect medical first responders and staff, the call has gone out to anyone with knowledge, a needle and thread to help out. Here is the pattern and more information on how you can help.
Film your Skills
People are craving ways to combat boredom, create entertainment, and keep the kids busy. If you have skills you can share like personal training, dancing, or cooking now is the time to show them off online and help others. The kids would make great assistants.
Write to Seniors
Senior citizens, especially those who are in assisted living communities, are at a particular disadvantage when it comes to COVID-19 – not only is it more dangerous, the loneliness is exacerbated by new regulations restricting or eliminating visitors. You (and the whole family) can help by writing letters, drawing pictures, and sending postcards to your local assisted living home.
Donate Food or Money
Making even a $1 monetary donation to your local food bank or soup kitchen can provide up to five meals depending on the food bank in question. Feeding America is helping food banks across the country that are seeking financial support as part of its response to COVID-19.
These are just some ideas, but every community is different and has its own needs. Discover how you can help in big or small ways – it all matters. You can create a sense of purpose amidst the turmoil and strive for the relentless pursuit of hope by #makingadifference.