Four effective ways to serve your community during the coronavirus crisis [Meaningful service you can do from inside your home]
This #NationalVolunteerWeek, the face of volunteerism has changed rapidly due to the coronavirus crisis. At New Politics Leadership Academy, we know that our community is always looking for ways to serve, and we wanted to connect our powerful community with ways to make an impact. So, while you may be stuck inside, here are four ways you can serve:
Help build the safety net for our most vulnerable populations
Food insecurity is a huge issue for many families during coronavirus. Feeding America is a nationwide network of food banks where you can find a local food pantry in your area. Remember — donating money has a larger impact than donating food. The National Coalition for the Homeless has a directory of local homeless shelters. Find a shelter in your area and see how you can help them.
Support organizations that are directly helping those most affected by coronavirus
GiveDirectly’s COVID-19 cash program is a simple way to give directly to those most in need. GiveDirectly has partnered with Propel to identify SNAP recipients and donate funds to them, and is working to give each eligible family a $1,000 check. Center for Disaster Philanthropy has a COVID-19 response fund to support those most affected by the crisis and first responders.
Volunteer virtually
Many nonprofits are quickly adapting to our current situation, and finding ways that individuals can help while practicing social distancing. Idealist has a list of virtual volunteer openings, so see if any of them are a good fit for you. Dorot, a NYC-based organization, is looking for volunteers willing to make weekly, friendly phone calls to their elderly and homebound clients. You can also go stay connected with friends by doing a fun social distancing contest where you each donate a few dollars to a pool and pick a charity of your choice, and then have a series of virtual challenges to decide where that money goes. It’s a combination of doing good, staying connected, and having fun!
Part of a low-risk population? Give your time by donating blood & volunteering
Many areas are reporting severe blood shortages right now. Donating blood is a great way to give back, particularly if you are a universal donor. Check on your neighbors, particularly those who are more vulnerable, and see if you can help them with their grocery shopping.
If you have any other ideas of how best to serve our communities during coronavirus, please email me at info@newpoliticsacademy.org.
Happy National Volunteer Week! We know that this is an incredibly difficult time for many individuals and families, and we send well wishes to all the members of our community.