I find that for most people who do it intensely it’s a calling, whereas others are new to it and surprised how simple and easy it is to contribute. Don’t overthink how to make the best impact, just schedule some time and search online for groups. For those looking to dip a toe in:
Trash pickup days are a great casual entry point. It’s a good mix of “people are the worst” and “I helped”. It’s not that there’s some volunteering culture that gatekeeps, but less organized groups will suck in an infinite amount of your free time because the potential work is never done. More developed organizations often have casual days for newcomers.
Tornado cleanup has been a next step though obviously disaster specific (America ofc). I suppose any disaster cleanup is equivalent. We’re not a religious family but in America we found that churches were the rally points for cleanup efforts… Which led to a lot of junk mail later.
Soup kitchens & food distribution to homeless in colder months is an easy way to contribute some help to people who are immediately in need without committing to community service as a lifestyle.
I find that for most people who do it intensely it’s a calling, whereas others are new to it and surprised how simple and easy it is to contribute. Don’t overthink how to make the best impact, just schedule some time and search online for groups. For those looking to dip a toe in:
Trash pickup days are a great casual entry point. It’s a good mix of “people are the worst” and “I helped”. It’s not that there’s some volunteering culture that gatekeeps, but less organized groups will suck in an infinite amount of your free time because the potential work is never done. More developed organizations often have casual days for newcomers.
Tornado cleanup has been a next step though obviously disaster specific (America ofc). I suppose any disaster cleanup is equivalent. We’re not a religious family but in America we found that churches were the rally points for cleanup efforts… Which led to a lot of junk mail later.
Soup kitchens & food distribution to homeless in colder months is an easy way to contribute some help to people who are immediately in need without committing to community service as a lifestyle.