One Can Make a Difference

1. Pursue pet projects that reflect personal passions. Plant flowers/vegetables in the community garden or pull weeds. Share garden knowledge with a civic or school group at planting time.

2. Have a pet peeve? Address it on a grander scale. Pick up litter in public places. Don’t just contribute to the local blessing box - clean it.

3. Contribute to the blessing box at peak need times. Cold water when heat index is high. Grab-n’-go items suitable for children on weekends or near the end of a month. Include easy-to-open containers.

4. Contribute items or dollars to a charity that serves community needs. Offer to deliver neighbors’ or friends’ contributions, too.

5. Meet one child’s needs. School officials can share sizes of shoes/coats/gloves without disclosing identities of giver or receiver.

6. Acknowledge someone’s consistent hard work. Deliver flowers or gift cards for coffee/ice cream. Include a thank-you note.

7. Offer time. Volunteer at food distributions. (Help isn’t needed only on the holidays). Contact an animal shelter to spend time with the animals.

8. Donate food/bedding/treats/litter to an animal shelter or to a neighbor on a fixed income.

9. Sign up for the next blood drive. (Refer to redcross.org for local dates and times nearby).

10. Be alert for chances to do random acts of kindness. Fun to offer and fun to receive.

In late October there is a Make a Difference Day, but don't wait until then. We can make a difference any day. And don't forget to smile!