6 ways to take action in your community

Guest article by Jason Lewis of Strong Well for Cherry Carson Church.

Are you looking to have a positive impact on your community? If you have a cause near and dear to your heart, think about meeting up with like-minded neighbors and launching an initiative that will make a difference. Not sure where to start? Here are 6 things you can do.

Become a Healthcare Advocate

As healthcare and insurance are becoming increasingly complicated to navigate for many Americans, good advocates for community health work hard to ensure the wellness and well-being of their friends, loved ones, and neighbors. So if you have a passion for helping the sick or the elderly, consider looking for ways to become a patient navigator or advocate.

A patient advocate volunteer could provide vital support to patients and their families by accompanying them to medical appointments, researching treatment options, and advocating for their rights within the healthcare system. By volunteering as a patient advocate, individuals can make a significant difference in improving the healthcare experience for those in their community.

Go Back to School

One of the best ways you can help your community is by becoming the best version of yourself – and going back to school is a great way to accomplish that. There are plenty of degree options out there, as well. For instance, a bachelor’s degree in education can teach you strategies needed for effective teaching and open up plenty of career doors. And thanks to the flexibility of online learning, you can proceed at your own pace.

Organize a Neighborhood Watch Group

Keep your children safe while they play outside and keep your street free from thieves and vandals by forming a watch group with your neighbors. In order to form your own group, you and your neighbors need to have a meeting with a member of your local law enforcement agency.

Talk about your worries and concerns, and make a plan of action together. Post warning signs at the top of your street and in front of your house. Plan to meet regularly, hold training sessions, and decide on methods of communication between members to report suspicious activity. Knowing your neighbors will help everyone on the block feel safer.

Volunteer with the Census Bureau

Every ten years, in the United States, the census takes place to count every resident in the country in order to apportion seats in the House of Representatives. The census also gives a truer representation of the shifting demographics in the country. The numbers gathered by census takers allow state and federal governments to allocate funds for social welfare programs, plan new housing developments, and evaluate the need for new schools, among many other things.

That’s why it’s vital to get everyone counted, and volunteers are always needed to spread the word about this national effort. So before 2030 rolls around, find a volunteer organization near you and get involved to make a real difference in your community!

Become an Advocate for DEI Practices

DEI, which stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, is the practice of creating an environment in which individuals from all backgrounds feel welcomed, valued, and supported. Advocating for DEI means promoting equal opportunities and fair treatment for everyone, regardless of their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. It involves understanding and respecting differences, challenging biases, and actively working towards creating a more inclusive society.

Sometimes, advocating simply means informing people of the problem and how the solution can help them. For example, a diverse workplace can actually increase involvement and innovation while also encouraging multicultural business practices. By advocating for DEI in your community, you are not only promoting social justice but also creating a better future for all.

Start a Nonprofit

Whether you want to help the homeless population in your area, open a food pantry, or rescue animals, forming a nonprofit corporation will help you secure funding by applying for public and private grants. You’ll need to select a board of directors to set the bylaws and make financial decisions for your nonprofit.

Make sure you keep excellent records of all your meetings and minutes and open a separate bank account for all your nonprofit’s financial transactions. File for tax-exempt status, and make sure you stay compliant with all state and federal laws in order for your nonprofit to remain in good standing. And don’t forget to create a website detailing your nonprofit corporation’s goals, events, and activities to raise awareness for your cause.

Find a Way to Make a Change

Make a difference in your community by getting involved in a cause you’re passionate about. Whether you want to help patients navigate the healthcare system, keep your neighborhood safe, or make sure everyone in your community has a voice, there are many ways you can contribute to the greater good.

Photo credit Pixabay

Jason Lewis is a personal trainer by day. He specializes in helping seniors stay fit, healthy, and injury-free. To make this mission possible, he created Strong Well to be able to share his tips.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Cherry Carson Assembly of God Church board.