How to Help People, Pets and Causes in Your Community

We all want to improve the lives of others in our communities. Yet, knowing where to start can be a challenge if you have never donated or volunteered. The most important thing to keep in mind is that every little bit of help will make a difference for those in need and the non-profits that seek to help them. So, with this in mind, here are some worthy causes you can support, as well as resources to help you get connected to those who need help the most.

Supporting Local Causes

Helping national organizations can have positive impacts for your community, but the best way to help is to donate to or volunteer with local causes. Here’s how you can do so:

●     Support organizations like Mentor2Youth, a non-profit that helps disadvantaged youth excel in life, academics, and career.

●     Volunteer with Ypsilanti-area homeless shelters, including SOS Community Services - Family Shelter Program and Alpha House.

●     Foster local homeless pets while you are sheltering in place at home in Ypsilanti.

●     Contact your local United Way chapter for information about donating to or volunteering with other local causes and organizations.

Feeding The Hungry

Food is a basic need and yet so many people go hungry each day. Here are some facts and resources to help you ensure this basic need is met for others.

●     According to the USDA, 35 million people experienced hunger in 2019 and this figure is expected to climb in the wake of COVID-19.

●     Of those 35 million hungry Americans, over 11 million children have experienced food insecurity in their homes.

●     You can fight hunger in America by donating time or money to hunger relief organizations like Feeding America and Meals on Wheels.

●     You and your children can also end hunger in your community by collecting non-perishable foods or volunteering in local soup kitchens.

Helping the Homeless

Shelter is another basic necessity that goes unmet for millions of people across the country. Here is what you need to know about helping homeless populations.

●     Over half a million Americans experienced at least one night of homelessness in 2018.

●     Statistics show that males are more likely to experience homelessness than females and that Native populations are even more at risk.

●     You can help provide shelter and comfort for the homeless in America by supporting organizations like the National Coalition for the Homeless.

Caring for Animals

Animals can also experience homelessness, as well as other acts of neglect and abuse. These resources can help provide the care and assistance these pets need:

●     The ASPCA estimates that over 6.5 million homeless or lost companion animals enter shelters in America each year.

●     Animal cruelty and neglect is another overwhelming issue, and up to 83 percent of people who abuse animals also end up abusing or harming other people.

●     You can help homeless animals without having to leave your home by adopting, fostering, or volunteering with local animal shelters and rescue groups.

●     You and your family can also donate to organizations that help animals, including local shelters, the Humane Society, and the ASPCA.

Making Non Profit Your Career

Here are some resources to help you identify the first steps to successfully start a non-profit of your own.

●     Know the essential steps of starting a non-profit organization.

●     Refer to some great tips on choosing the right non-profit career path.

●     Earning a business degree can help you gain the skills needed to run a successful non-profit and add value to your work.

●     Get your facts straight by reading the top 10 myths about working in a non profit.

While you may never be able to provide comfort for every single person or animal in need, even offering a little bit of help can make a big difference. So, do what you can, when you can, and know that in doing so you will be improving the lives of others and your community as a whole.

Mentor2Youth is a non-profit organization that supports disadvantaged youth by offering mentorship programs for personal, academic, and professional development. You can support our cause by volunteering or making a donation.

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