“Success is about how you make a difference in the lives of people.” It is a phrase made popular by Michelle Obama and comes to mind almost daily now that people learn English worldwide. As an English teacher who receives calls from countries located across the globe, she has to realize how small the world is becoming and how instrumental involved people are in creating effective and positive change for people.
The teacher receives calls all day from people who want to improve their English so they can get a better job, improve their English skills, or even talk to their neighbors.
When Firas, a student, calls from far off Iraq, she realizes how small the world is becoming and how much teaching can help other people. Yes, he talks about his country’s economy (Iraq) and the price of the Iraqi dinar. At the same time, he thanks his teacher during every phone conversation. All for spending fifteen minutes of her time helping him perfect his English (an important work skill).
A teacher is contributing something important to the world. However, teaching English is a way of contributing to my community. It is not for everyone. Still, there are many ways for people to do this. Helping others can have a positive impact on our own lives. It makes us happier, more balanced, and it gives us a greater sense of purpose. However, most of us don’t know where to start, so here are a few suggestions to help you begin.
Volunteer
There are many opportunities to volunteer in your community. Look for something where you feel you help. You can volunteer with the elderly, the homeless, with young people. Look for organizations in your community or talk to your church leader to find an organization that needs your skillset.
Serve Your Community
Investing in your community does not mean you have to give your time away or volunteer for free. If you are a teacher, a musician, an artist, or even a computer whiz, share your skills with a local school or community center. These are often paid positions, but it is a way you can make a difference to your community.
You could even try visiting someone in the hospital, offering to help an older neighbor or work on a community conservation project.
Support Local Businesses
Local businesses and shops are important to the community, and they are always struggling against the competition from larger competitors. Buy from the small local shops and get to know the people who run these stores so it becomes both a social and financial investment.
Go Greener
Help your local community clean up. Little things like picking up the litter or organizing a neighborhood garden can help make your community nicer for everyone.
Give Five
Make a $5 donation at the grocery check-out when you go shopping. Even the food banks are struggling to meet the needs of the economically challenged. Donate $5 at the grocery store to help someone who can’t afford food.
Help The Neighbors
Helping your community can start at home, and a community starts with the people around you. Many people suffer physical, psychological, and financial problems alone. One of the greatest challenges we face across the nation is loneliness. In turn, this depression can also be associated with higher risks of disease and mortality. So get out, say hello to the neighbors, take them a basket of fruit or stroll over to say hello.
Get to know the people around you and see how you can help. You can help with food shopping, gardening, or just by talking to them.
Donate House Stuff
Don’t throw away stuff that is still in good condition. Donate them to charity shops. These stores often raise money for good causes. You can even start a donation drive for your neighborhood.
Investing time and effort in your community is good for you and those around you. Spend some time on a project, donate, or clean up. Give back to your community, and this can help you too. Keep in mind that your community can now be as big or as small as you want it to be. You can help people online by using video conferencing software (giving classes, sharing time, or just talking) or locally (even someone as close as your next-door neighbor.) It is really up to you.
