1. Vote In Mid-Term Elections And Primaries
2. Sit In On School Board and Town Hall Meetings
Local education and government are incredibly important! Sit in on local board meetings to see how the budget is being allocated, and understand what goes on behind the scenes, and the issues being discussed involving your education and city.
3. Volunteer
No matter what your passion is, there is always a place to give back. Research local non-profits in your area that are fighting for things you believe in, and give them a helping hand. No gesture or time given will be unappreciated!
4. Write To Your Local Congressman/woman
As I said before, congressmen are representatives of YOUR home. Write to them or their office, and tell them what you’re concerned about. Whether it's on a local or federal scale, you are making a difference by speaking up and talking to someone who is from your area with power who can change things on a larger scale.
Find your local representative here!
5. Spread Positivity
Positive vibes are needed now more than ever. Holding the door for someone, smiling at them, or saying that they look nice can go a long way. You never know what kind of a day they’re having, so radiating positivity can’t hurt. I remember the girl who said I had nice hair during finals week, and I still want to thank her 10 times over.
6. Offer Support
If you see someone struggling, let them know you are there. Whether it’s a stranger who needs help loading their groceries or a friend who is having family issues, support goes a long way. Most of the time, just offering the help or letting someone know that they belong adds some relief.
7. Make Your Voice Heard
Don't be afraid to speak up! I guarantee that you are not the only one with a certain point of view or belief. Do not be afraid to stand up against opposing opinions to get YOUR message across!
8. Donate
There are some local charities that will always take donations! Here are some:
- Foodbanks! – I know you don’t really want those canned lima beans in the back of your pantry….
- Waterfront Misson or Goodwill! – Do your little sister a favor, and don’t make her wear those high-waters you wore throughout 4th grade.
- Ronald McDonald House! – They collect pop-tabs off of soda cans and soups to recycle them. A local recycler will buy them and make an additional donation to the local Ronald McDonald House.
9. Ask Questions
Ask a professor, teacher, friend, or neighbor if there is anything they are a part of that interests you, or you might want to get involved in. Asking questions that evoke positive change are crucial!
10. Make Personal Changes
I'm not saying to “change yourself” because you’re doing something wrong. But, if there is something you care about like the environment, civil rights, or economy you can do a few things locally to make a difference. For instance, take shorter showers to conserve water and lower your monthly bill while helping the environment, don’t be a bystander when you witness racism or sexism and let others know that you're standing by them, and buy from a local coffee shop instead of Starbucks to support the local economy!
11. Fight Misinformation
Last but not least, GET INFORMED. Always acknowledge every perspective! Nothing hurts you more than when you back up an argument that is not well researched. Encourage others to get informed and promote research! Information never hurt anyone!
That being said, get out there guys! We all have a little "save the world" in us, so let's start helping those around us. If we work together, positive change will be imminent!
