Charities, organizations, and nonprofits have reinvented themselves in this unpredictable climate to inspire change through adaptation and innovation. By leveraging this “new normal,” communities have come together to support each other now more than ever by giving back in ways both traditional and new. If you are looking for ways to give back, here are five simple (and relatively low-cost) methods of supporting charities and nonprofits (and, ultimately, your community) while safely social distancing!
Volunteer your time
Stay-at-home regulations afford many people with extra time that can be spent volunteering—safely, of course! Support your local charities and nonprofits by volunteering your extra time helping with their outreach efforts. This often includes assisting with contact-free drop offs (perhaps with groceries or supplies to people or families in need). Operation South Jersey offers similar opportunities to help those in need in the community, and organizations like The Volunteer Center of South Jersey do as well. Contact your local charities to see how you can help in your free time!
There are also a host of virtual tutoring, and similar, opportunities online through a variety of charities, like the United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. If you have some extra time and an affinity for teaching or reading, spend some time researching organizations through which you can tutor online, read to kids online, or even record audiobooks online.
Another excellent use of your free time to support charities and nonprofits would be to undergo training for CASA of CGS (or your local CASA). CASA of CGS is currently offering virtual training programs for volunteers who are interested in becoming an advocate to speak up for abused and neglected children in court. Learn more about this opportunity and upcoming trainings on their website!
Donate goods
If you have extra nonperishable food, clothing, masks, etc. then donate them to your local nonprofit or charity! Oftentimes people have room to give but just don’t know whom to reach out to. Local charities like The Salvation Army or food banks (like the Community Food Bank of NJ) are a great place to start. Check out our resources page for more opportunities!
Foster a pet
Human’s aren’t the only ones affected by this virus—even our furry friends are scared right now and often left alone in shelters with little support and love. Support your local SPCA during this time by fostering a pet.
Make a monetary donation
Times are tough right now, but even a little goes a long way. If you have enough to give, and perhaps don’t have the time to volunteer, consider donating to nonprofits or charities that will use the money to support those in need in your community.
Repost nonprofits/charities and their campaigns on your social media
Arguably the easiest and most neglected form of giving back is spreading the word! Even if you might not be in the position to donate your time, money, goods, etc., you can certainly share opportunities that might reach people who can give back! So get on social media and get to sharing!
We hope these simple yet effective solutions gave you some ideas and motivation to be the change in your community by supporting charities and nonprofits! If you are searching for specific nonprofits and charities to give back to, we have compiled a list of regularly updated resources in our community on our website. Join our network to help inspire change with us!