Socially distant volunteering might seem a bit stand-offish, but it still produces great benefits for all parties involved. We are all learning to think outside the box as COVID continues to alter our lives. Getting outside our typical way of doing things can initially feel uncomfortable, but it’s good for our minds. We think more broadly, and we discover new ideas that we previously didn’t consider.
Personal interactions are so important. They sustain us through hard times and create bonds that can last a lifetime. Many common ways of volunteering cease to exist for the time being, but that doesn’t mean the need on the receiving end has vanished. There are still people, animals and landscapes that need our attention. During a time of uncertainty, giving back can not only help those in need, but it can give us a sense of purpose and direction. Something we as humans are always in search of.
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Exercise
Exercising keeps our bodies in shape and produces those ever important endorphins that keeps our mood gauge in check. Running, walking, hiking and biking can all be enjoyed in a socially distant manner. Many of the 5k/10k/marathon races that raise money for various nonprofit organizations have been cancelled. Not all is lost though because many have a virtual race that allows you to still participate.
Did you know you can raise money for cancer research by taking a hike? Download the PULLL app, along with the Map My Run app, and start earning money for a needy cause! If hiking isn’t your thing, you can track your miles by walking, running, or biking as well. It might not be a lot of money, but every bit really does make a difference.
Community Involvement
Regardless of where you live, your town needs you. Socially distant volunteering jobs are still out there. Many can be done at random times by yourself. These might include pulling weeds, picking up trash or stocking Little Free Libraries/Pantries. Each of these items only takes a few minutes, but they beautify the space for everyone and promote community appreciation.
These links make it even easier for you:
Lancaster, Ohio Socially Distant Volunteering
If you’d like to get involved in Lancaster, you can click on this link to get signed up.
Socially Distant Volunteering Near and Far
Restricted travel has also changed the way we interact with those further away. Technology has helped bridge that gap a bit. Facetime, email and social media help to keep us connected. On the flip side, good ol’ snail mail can be a welcomed change. Who doesn’t like to get ‘real’ mail when they open up the mailbox versus junk mail and bills? We all can take the time to write a letter to someone who lives near or far and brighten their day. It can be as simple as writing a letter on a piece of notebook paper or as fun and elegant as using stationary and stickers.
Do any of you shop on online? How about sending a quick treat to someone. You can click on these links to send cookies, coloring books, nuts and candy. Just a few dollars spent can mean a lot to someone to let them know you are thinking about them.
More Ideas
This article from The Good Trade gives you additional ideas for taking part in socially distant volunteering. Most of these services can be done in the comfort of your own home.
Many of my past articles note volunteering opportunities. My article on Belmont County mentions quite a few of them. They include painting, cleaning, organizing, carpentry, decorating and yard work. You can read in more detail here.
Because my readers are very involved in volunteering, I’m sure many of you have come up with additional ideas. Please share in the comments below so others can follow suit. And THANK YOU for taking the time out of your day to brighten this world a bit more.
BElieve
THEre is
GOOD in the world
