With all that is going on around the world, as well as in our country today, it is hard not to feel fortunate for the opportunities we are presented. It is no secret that there are people who are in desperate need of help. However, there are many ways to become involved aside from being sympathetic and opening up a dialogue.

1. Become a big brother or a big sister.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America aims to create positive role models for young children facing adversity. Let's face it, not everyone has responsible adult figures in his or her life. In response to this, BBBS aims to create one-on-one relationships between adult volunteers (Bigs) and children and teens enrolled in the program (Littles). The effort put into this organization is shown through the statistics; little brothers and sisters who are members of BBBS are know to be more confident in their schoolwork performance, are able to get along better with their families, 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drug, 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol, and 52 percent less likely to skip school. A few hours a week may not seem like a lot of time to you, but it can honestly make a world of difference to a young kid who wants or needs another caring adult figure in his or her life.

2. Get involved with the Innocence Project.

Each year, thousands of people are convicted of crimes they didn't commit. While a few are able to break through the legal system and prove their innocence, others are not as lucky. In some cases wrongly indicted people are even sentenced to death.The Innocence Project raises money to help free the wrongly convicted through the use of DNA testing and reforming of the criminal justice system.

3. Visit foster homes in your area.

Organizations such as Hope For Youth have numerous opportunities to get involved. You can do something as simple as donating clothing, luggage or toys, or, if you would like to really get involved, you could volunteer by visiting local foster care facilities! Make a huge difference by donating a bicycle to older kids within the foster care system. This will be a huge help to them, especially if they are in need of transportation to and from work and school.

4. Volunteer at food banks.

Hunger is an epidemic that is going to take all of us to help fight. Just walking down a city street, it is easy to see that there are people who do not have the proper resources to care for themselves. There is more than enough food in the world for the population, so why are so many people hungry? Although one person cannot solve this problem, they certainly can help! Donating canned goods and other non-perishable items may not help the world at large, but it will definitely make a difference within your community.

5. Volunteer at a local animal shelter, even adopt a pet if you can!

Shelters are overflowing with sweet animals who are looking for loving homes. One way to help is first and foremost to always adopt, do not shop! By adopting, you are giving an animal a new lease on life and a happy home. If you aren't quite ready for a pet, you can always volunteer at animal shelters; this is where you will help ensure that these animals are in the best care as well as educating the public, and fund raise.

Although it is said that one person cannot change the world, it couldn't hurt to try! You never know who you'll inspire.