Community is a vital part of our lives, and in so many ways, it creates, molds and shapes us into the people we are today. It’s so complex, but the main (and certainly the most important) part of a community is the people. We long for connection with others almost like a fundamental part of our human existence. These shared experiences unite us as one and can also be instruments for social change. What makes our communities great are the efforts put forth by the people who reside in it, those who get involved and those who participate when it matters most. We need to give back.

So, we asked Blavity’s Creative Society to share 21 ways to get involved and to make a difference in your community:

1. Recycle

Blavity 21 ways pic 4 — Photo: socialmoms.com

2. Volunteer your time (onebrick, NY Cares, Street Project, hospitals, seniors)

3. Shop locally

4. Supporting local small businesses

5. Donate materials (food, clothes, etc.) to local schools and shelters

6. Local book drive to provide schools with proficient libraries/improve literacy

Blavity 21 ways pic 1 — Photo: Miami Herald

7. Highway cleanup

Blavity 21 ways pic 2 — Photo: idot.illinois.gov

8. Start a neighborhood community group around a sport or even just for a cookout or potluck. This helps with building and maintaining relationships for strong communities.

9. Serve/prepare food at homeless shelter

Blavity 21 ways pic 5 — Photo: Thanksgiving.com

10. Organize your own event

11. Mentor (iMentor, ANY, BBBS, Minds Matter)

12. Invest time and research into local politics

13. Volunteer as a coach or activity supervisor for after-school programs at local public schools

Blavity 21 ways pic 3 — Photo: annarborymca.org

14. Organize weekend programs for youth

15. Participate in philanthropic sport clubs or recreational leagues

16. Utilize connections with local politicians to address issues directly in communities now that we can pinpoint them with the help of social media.

17. Get connected in young professional or city organizations

18. Volunteer at your local community garden as well as utilize the fruits and vegetables as a local market (if grown correctly/organically)

19. Learn & teach financial literacy

20. Invest in neighborhood spaces with local home/business/asset ownership (can organize a group from the community)

21. Join or start a neighborhood watch program

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