By this time most if not all concerts, sporting events, and other similar activities have been postponed or canceled. At times of concern and stress, many ease their minds and hearts by giving back. However, this can be difficult during COVID-19 as many opportunities have changed and it is difficult to know what you can do.
Communities around the nation have been finding ways to come together and do good simultaneously. Healthy participants are partnering up with organizations to deliver food to those who are the most at risk and advised to stay inside. While you’re at home, why not do some research on how you can volunteer online or help out your community! Here are some ideas while you’re at it!
Pic credit: Avel Chuklanov
In Vermont, Meals on Wheels is a popular option for those who are able. This program has been running for years, but has moved to focus on helping senior citizens during the COVID-19 outbreak. They recommend that those who want to help reach out to their local branch in order to best address the unique needs of the community. The site offers an easy-to-use zip code search to locate the best match for you. If there is not a branch close to you, other communities, such as those in Colorado, have been doing similar outreach through the Salvation Army. If all else fails, considering calling those vulnerable and asking how you can best assist them.
A great tip to find out how you can volunteer online:
- Search keywords on Google volunteer (state) or volunteer (city) to find a database. For example: search ‘Volunteer Houston’
- Check out groups on social media: For example, Facebook or Reddit has a subreddit for /volunteer.
A great initiative that has recently started due to the outbreak is occurring in Wisconsin. A response team called the “COVID-19 Task Initiative” posts information about local projects and how to best assist them and the community. Opportunities on the site are available for those of all ages and skill levels; they range from morale boosting card making to teaching music and art virtually. The page also hosts a few methods to help virtually through larger organizations.
For more virtual volunteering opportunities, check out Volunteer Match. Their site hosts opportunities for both volunteer online and in person volunteering, but has a plentiful selection for online work. They have recently added a section specific to COVID-19 and are actively posting new opportunities.
Group volunteer to Ecuador
If you’re looking to volunteer with an organization abroad, we have recently launched a virtual volunteer and virtual internship! FIND OUT MORE: United Planet Launches Virtual Volunteer and Virtual Internship
Regardless of how you decide to help those closest to you or your community and no matter how small you may think your action is, it will have a positive impact. A simple gesture can go a long way and bring a smile into the day of someone who needs it.
- Check in on those around you and don’t forget to thank those who are on the front lines during this time.
- Try surprising an at-risk neighbor or nurse by leaving a home-cooked meal and a positive note at their door. Rachel, marketing and communications intern shared,
My family has started doing this and the reaction has been wonderful. Those at risk do not have to go out for a meal and staff working long hours can come home and rest after a tiring day.
- Offer help to the elderly if they need someone to run errands for them.
- If you’re a sewing whiz, use your talent to churn out masks for your neighbors or loved ones!
- Self-love is so important! When you’re at home, make sure you’re taking care of yourself and return the favor to others who might need some company over a Zoom or a phone call.
ABOUT UNITED PLANET
United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Established in 2001, United Planet offers volunteer abroad, virtual internships, internships abroad, gap year volunteering, and global virtual exchange in more than 40 countries.
