Tips for How To Give Back to Your Community

Now, more than ever, communities and their nonprofit organizations need support.

Social distancing has provided an extra hurdle for nonprofits to assist those in need, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. If you want to give back to charities and/or the community, all you need to do is look around for various opportunities to assist even during this pandemic.

Here are tips and ideas for how to give back to your community during these challenging times.

Donations

Requests for donations from nonprofits have seen an uptick as many have been forced to cancel or postpone key fundraising events. As a result, donations have decreased, while at the same time, the needs of the communities these organizations support have increased.

If you have a charity that is close to your heart, and have the means, consider donating to help them through these challenging times.

While monetary donations are always appreciated by charities, there are other ways to donate as well.

Take a look through your closets and pantries for items like gently worn clothing or extra canned goods to donate to local homeless shelters and food banks.

With the school year beginning, many districts are also in need of laptops and tablets to help students with virtual learning, and many organizations are able to refurbish your old or unused device to provide to students in need.

Volunteer

While volunteering efforts were forced to change due to social distancing mandates, there are still plenty of opportunities to help organizations in a safe manner.

At WSFS, Associates volunteer on a weekly basis to deliver food to homebound seniors through Meals On Wheels Delaware. As one of the most at-risk groups during the pandemic, these elderly Delawareans are even more in need. With proper protective equipment, WSFS Associates have been able to deliver meals in a safe way.

With back to school season in full swing, numerous organizations need volunteers to help sort and pack school supplies for underserved children so they have the equipment needed to succeed in a school year unlike any other. With the help of gloves and masks, Associates have been able to help sort and distribute the supplies for children through organizations like the Sunday Breakfast Mission in a safe and social distanced manner.

Get Creative

Many organizations have pivoted to create opportunities to give back from the comfort and safety of your home by utilizing your arts, crafts and culinary skills.

Organizations such as Caring for Friends have opportunities to create “Caring Notes” to be sent to homebound seniors, disabled children and families in need. Creating inspirational and uplifting cards can also provide a perfect opportunity to get your children involved in volunteering in a fun and engaging way.

Creating masks or making meals is another great way to give back from home. WSFS Associates have been able to band together with their families to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, masks and more to provide to organizations supporting those experiencing homelessness.

I encourage you to always be open to helping those in need. If you’re interested in volunteering but unsure how to give back in the current environment, consider reaching out to organizations that support causes you’re passionate about to see how you can assist in a safe way. During these challenging times, we’re truly all in this together.