When you live in a community, it’s up to you to help make that area all it can be. If you love it how it is, that’s great. But if you see room for improvement, that improvement is only going to come if people just like you put in the time and effort to make things better.
So whether you’re wanting to get more involved in an already thriving community or you’re ready to start being the change you want to see in the world, here are three ways you can be a better member of your own community.
Become A Consistent Volunteer
For most people, there are times of the year where they get more involved with volunteering. And while this can be great while it lasts, if you truly want to make a difference, there need to be people willing to volunteer at all times and in all places within your community.
If you’ve been wanting to get more into volunteering within your community, Robyn McNeil, a contributor to Medium.com, checking with organizations like your local hospital, food bank, animal shelter, homeless shelter, senior center, and more to find out what volunteer help you can give. And try to make your efforts something you do over a long period of time, not just once a year.
Ensure Everyone Has Access To Clean Water
In more areas of the developed world, people have reasonable access to clean water. However, if recent events in the news have taught us anything, it’s that there are still vulnerabilities that we need to be aware of and fight against.
To help all members of your community, Sidney Stevens, a contributor to Mother Nature Network, recommends having the water tested at your home and other areas where you spend a decent amount of time. While public water agencies have to do at least yearly testing of their water, getting your own water tested and learning more about how your water is treated can help ensure that everyone in your community has access to safe, clean water.
Get To Know The People Around You
Another easy way to become a better and more involved member of your own community is to simply spend some time getting to know the people around you. Not only will this help you feel more involved in the community, but you and your family might feel safer knowing that you have friends close by who can help keep an eye on things for you.
As a good place to start, Patrick Sisson and Alissa Walker, contributors to Curbed.com, suggest striking up conversations with your neighbors and those who own small businesses in your neighborhood.
If you’re wanting to help improve your own community, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you learn how you can be a better member of it.