Contributed by Tiffany Silverberg
The world is full of opportunities to volunteer, give back and make a difference in your community, society, and the world. But sometimes there just isn’t time. Sometimes you can’t leave the house or office to dig in and get your hands dirty. Sometimes personal limitations keep you from how you want to help. Sometimes you just want to help now from where you are. If you are wondering how to make a difference while sitting in front of your computer, rest assured you can. Reaching out whenever and however you can will certainly leave a positive impact on those around you.
When Disaster Strikes
The desire to look for how to make a difference often hits when disaster strikes. You hear terrible news and you instantly wonder “how can I help?” and “what can I do?” You likely can’t hop in your car or on a plane and travel to the location of the tragedy. Whether it’s across town or around the world, these situations are often far removed or out of reach. You may not have the resources or time to pick up and go. That’s when your own computer can be most useful. Look for reputable online donation options, such as through the American Red Cross or a local charity.
Getting Involved
The internet is full of sources for places and ways to get involved. Follow your favorite charities and local nonprofit organizations on their social media pages for regular updates. They may share their immediate or upcoming needs. If they are gathering supplies or hosting events, you’ll hear about it and can prepare to join in! From there you can also be the one to raise a digital hand and let them know you’d be happy to pick up supplies or donate to a cause. You may also want to sign up for their email newsletter for regular updates. Be sure to check their websites for additional volunteer opportunities.
Finding Connections
If you are looking for others who are also looking for how to make a difference, your computer is a great tool. Again social media sites, such as Facebook, allow you to get the word out about your ideas or interests and see if anyone else would like to join in the cause. Ask who else might be interested in working on a project, volunteering at a shelter or food pantry, or gathering supplies, donations, or funds. You might work together to host an event or volunteer regularly for a specific project.
Coordinating Others
If you have personal connections to a particular need in your community or want to bring people together to work toward a common goal of support and service your Lotsa Helping Hands Community can help. Keep your group up to date on changes, improvements, and day to day happenings. Assign tasks to group members or let them sign up as needs arise. Maintain a calendar of events and tasks so everyone in the group knows what needs to be done and when. Helping people help others is a simple, yet powerful way to make a difference from your computer.
How to make a difference is not nearly as important as actually doing it in your own way however you can. Your contributions may seem small or detached from the situation when you are working from your computer. But when it’s all you can do, either today or anytime, it matters. However you choose to give back, being creative, conscientious, and consistent will leave a lasting impact on the community around you. Grab your computer, hop online, and change the world.