POSITIVE IMPACT
Three Ways To Influence Your Community Right Now
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cts of kindness, big and small, have the ability to change the world, one community at a time. After more than a year of isolation for many people across the country, now is the perfect time to do good and build unity in your area.
According to a national survey from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, more than 1 in 3 Americans (36 percent) faced “serious loneliness” during the pandemic, including more than 60 percent of young adults. You can help those craving a sense of connection with a few tips from SECU Maryland. The largest chartered credit union in the state continues to strengthen and enrich the lives of neighbors and communities, in this case aiming to inspire 70,000 acts of kindness nationwide.
USE YOUR VOICE
GET ACTIVE
Words have power, and you can leverage yours to uplift, support and offer love.
- Take making a difference in your community to the next level by getting active with the organizations and associations that mean the most to you, starting at home.
- Thank a teacher for making a difference in your life or your children’s.
- Complete chores you know your partner or family members don’t like doing.
- Send a “thank you” card to your local fire station or police department.
- Donate old towels and blankets to a local animal shelter.
- Decorate your children’s bedroom doors with paper hearts, each featuring a reason you love them.
- Take used books to a local library.
- Leave a positive online review for a company, business or organization in your community.
- Put your phone away while enjoying the company of others and focus on being present.
- Write an uplifting text message to five friends whom you haven’t spoken to recently.
- Start a piggy bank for a cause in need of funding.
CULTIVATE GRATITUDE There are many benefits of showing gratitude to those around you, both for your friends and family and for you. Start by focusing internally; begin writing in a gratitude journal, jotting down three things you’re thankful for each day before going to bed. Continue by reflecting on each day with your partner or family at mealtime, celebrating the moments that brought a smile to your face. Finally, show your gratitude to those all around you by saying “thank you” at every opportunity for the big things and small ones.
- Surprise a neighbor with freshly baked goodies.
- Volunteer for a nonprofit that’s close to your heart. - Surprise someone behind you in the drive-thru line by paying for his or her order. - Leave an extra tip at your favorite restaurant or for your grocery delivery person.
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