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Serving Your Community: 5 Ways To Become an Asset for Your Local Community

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Whether you live in a small rural village or you are at the center of an up-and-coming neighborhood, there is a lot you can do to support your local community. While not everyone is able to contribute equally to donations and community efforts, if you are in the position to make a change, 2022 might be your year. 

If you have never taken part in volunteering initiatives or charitable associations, you might see giving back as a burden. However, helping your community means creating a healthier, nicer place for you to live in. And, new studies even show that giving is the quickest path to happiness! If you are unsure about what to do, check out the tips below. 

Start a Career in Politics

Whether you have always wanted to work in politics or now, there is a lot that you can do for your community as a successful political leader. Of course, being the political leader of a small town might not be an extremely profitable career, but it is certainly something that you can do alongside your other endeavors. And, if you have ideas and projects to bring forward, this might just be the best alternative for you!  

Volunteer and Support Local Charitable Associations

Every town or neighborhood has volunteering and charitable associations. If a career in politics is not for you, you might donate your time, expertise, and money to a cause that is close to your heart. For example, you might consider helping the local animal refuge or signing up for shifts in the local meal center. 

Make sure to speak to the local associations to truly understand what they need! Some of them might require you to undertake training, and there might be a minimum number of days a month you have to be available for. 

Offer Services for Low-Income Families

If you are a self-employed professional or you run your own business, there is a lot that you can do to improve the quality of life of the people around you. For example, you could offer your services at a discounted fee - or for free - to people coming from low-income families. 

From a business viewpoint, this can significantly improve your image and reputation. And, at the same time, you will be helping people in your community access premium services at a fee they can afford. 

Clean and Maintain the Local Area

If you wish to improve your local area and you have some time available to dedicate to your projects, you could be the one to launch community initiatives. Some options include:

  • Beach or streets clean-ups

  • Raking leaves

  • Walking kids home from school

  • Completing painting and maintenance jobs

  • Organizing events and fairs 

  • Help others with repairs

  • Launch charitable initiatives such as a public library, bake sales, and car washes

Keep the Community Engaged and Informed

Whether you are a writer or teacher, there is a lot you can do to keep your community informed and engaged. For example, you could teach those around you a language or skills. You could help people become more familiar with CPR training or the internet. Whatever knowledge or ideas you can share, your community will love it. In all this, an American Writer can help!