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“Make a Difference Day” is a national day of helping others.

 Sponsored by USA WEEKEND Magazine, this year it is Saturday, October 25th.



Once again, this day has me thinking about what I can do as an individual and in my business to help others and truly "make a difference".  I believe that no matter how small, our actions can promote change in the lives of others as well as our own.


Previously, I wrote an article on how Mentoring is a great way to give back (check it out here)!


Now I am concentrating on some things I can do to help those right in my own community. Sometimes it seems that we forget that there are people in need close to home.


Here are a few things I think we can all do:

• Volunteer and/or Donate to our Local Food Pantries -  I have a wonderful organization in my neighborhood, North Hills Community Outreach, that is always in need of coats, non-perishables, and school supplies to help area families.  

• Support Your Local Library - My library holds semi-annual book sales and offers “Library Friends” memberships.  These donations help keep it running despite dwindling federal funds. 

• Organize an Area clean-up Effort - Whether with your business or with a group of friends, keeping your neighborhood clean is great for all.

• Adopt a Pet or Donate to a No-kill Shelter - While we might not all be able or willing to have a new pet join our family, helping these animal friendly organizations is worthwhile.

• Help a Neighbor - Maybe you can give them a hand with yard work, give them a ride or run errands ~ whatever they may not be able to do themselves.  

• “Blessing Bags” - This idea came from a Facebook friend of mine, Laura Braun Weldon! “Blessing Bags” are a gallon size resealable bag filled with useful items you can pass on to homeless people in your area. 

“Blessing Bag” items can include:  chap stick, tissues, toothbrush and toothpaste, comb, soap, hotel size shampoos, trail mix, granola bars, crackers, packs of gum, band aids, mouthwash, hand wipes, warm socks, a packet rain poncho or large clear plastic trash bag, coins or a small amount of money - the possibilities are endless!


You can even include a small note or card of encouragement.  It is a great idea to keep a few “Blessing Bags” in your car for when the opportunity arises.


This is a wonderful project you can do with your children....and a fantastic way to teach them about helping others.

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Finally, if you really want to “make a difference” in your own community, you can Shop Local. Any time you buy from a neighborhood small business, you help the business owner, their family, and their employees.  What could be a better way to make a change in your own neighborhood?


No matter if you choose one of these suggestions or come up with something on your own, it doesn’t have to be a monumental gesture or cost a lot of money.  Every little thing we do that puts others before ourselves creates a better world.  



Remember, We all can “Make a Difference”.  What Will You Do?


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