Tag Archives: volunteer

Nov26

Get Into The Holiday Spirit

Posted on by
Standard
Get Into The Holiday Spirit

Hi! We are full fledged into the holiday season and I think everyone could use a heaping dose of holiday cheer. This has been a crazy few years, to say the least! Spreading holiday cheer can be with grand gestures, but oftentimes it’s the little things that mean the most. Small acts of kindness that can turn someone’s entire day around. The ideas we’re about to discuss will put you on the Nice List, for sure, but that’s beside the point. It just feels good to do good! Let’s discuss:

Help a Neighbor:

Spreading holiday cheer can start right across the street! Should you have a neighbor that might need some extra help, be the person to offer. This could include shoveling snow, stopping by with a delicious meal, gifting a wreath for their door, or lighting up the outside of their home for a festive touch. I know firsthand the power of these gestures. Our downstairs neighbor is one of our best friends and whenever I am cooking, there is always a plate ready for him too. It makes both of our days and that is exactly what friends are for. ❤

Donating:

Toy drives and food pantries are amazing ways to share your good fortune. Lots of local businesses in my neck of the woods are hosting drives for toys and food so ask around for a place that you can drop off to. This is also the time of year for grocery stores to run promotions like “spend X amount and get a free turkey or X Y and Z”. A local shelter could really benefit from that for their holiday meals. A gesture like this can truly do a world of good so give what you can so everyone in your community can have a special holiday too.

Blessing Boxes:

In the same breath, I have seen countless posts on talk of the town pages about people creating Blessing Boxes. It is essentially a Little Free Library but for pantry items. Food insecurity is such a major issue and creating a Blessing Box for your neighborhood would be fantastic. When an entire neighborhood gets together, there is nothing you can’t do to help so give what you can. Even if what you can give is not a lot, don’t downplay it. It still makes a huge difference!

Care Packages:

A resounding need at homeless shelters as the weather turns is cold weather clothing items like thick socks, gloves, hats, scarves, and jackets. Other items that are always needed include personal hygiene supplies, underwear, and diapers. If you look on their websites, you might also find wish lists for families that are living there. Creating care packages to drop off can help keep the neighbors in your community warm and comfortable. You can also make cash donations on websites too and find ways to volunteer your time. This is always a need and you might find yourself returning at least once a week.

Nursing Homes:

There are so many people who have no one to spend the holidays with, especially those in nursing homes. You could host a holiday card or gift drive to drop off or simply be there and spend time. I often see posts from local nursing homes requesting something like this on talk of the town pages. If you can’t find any posts, call around. This can create such a bright memory for all parties involved!

Everyone deserves a safe and happy holiday season. Do what you can to make it happen and remember, anything you do is something! ❤

Do you volunteer anywhere? How do you spread holiday cheer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Dec22

Simple Ways To Spread Holiday Cheer

Posted on by
Standard
Simple Ways To Spread Holiday Cheer

Howdy!! The countdown to Christmas is SO on and I am sure everyone is busy with their holiday prep. Me? I am officially DONE with shopping and wrapping so I am eagerly anticipating for the celebrations to hurry up and get here! It wouldn’t be the holiday season if everything didn’t feel a little bit crazy right now. However, it is always great to spread some happiness to friends, neighbors, and strangers. If you have some extra time to spare and holiday cheer to spread, let’s look at a few simple ways that you can make it happen:

Shovel Driveways/Sidewalks:

As of now in Akron, Ohio, we have had a snowy day or two and that has been it. If you live somewhere snowy, though, your neighbors will always appreciate some help with removal – especially if they are older. There is a reason why “heart attack snow” is a real thing! Take some extra time to clear off a driveway or two or make a path on some sidewalks if your neighborhood has them. This can really take a load off for those in your community physically and metaphorically and is an ideal way to spread some cheer if you are going to be experiencing a White Christmas.

Donate To A Shelter:

SO many grocery stores are running promotions such as “spend X amount and get a free turkey or ham”. If this applies to you and you don’t need the free item, donate it to a shelter instead where it can be used and enjoyed. This is exactly what my family did for Thanksgiving with the promo being ran at Giant Eagle. You can also take a look at the websites for shelters in your area. Chances are, they will have a list of items that they need in the moment like winter coats, winter accessories, feminine hygiene, and diapers. They also might have ways to sponsor a child so you can cross off some toys on their wish list. Whatever you choose to do will do a world of good.

Santa Mail:

I don’t know if this is a thing in your neck of the woods. But, in mine, I am constantly seeing posts from local nursing homes on social media asking for pen pals for their residents. If this is something that is doable where you are – go for it! Call a nursing home, get a batch of holiday cards, and send your well wishes. This has the potential to really brighten someone’s day. Better yet, you could form a lasting friendship with these correspondences and that is a gift in itself.

Sweets & Treats:

There is always sure to be an overflow of holiday sweets like cookies, pies, and candies. If you find yourself with WAY too much – you already know what to do. Make a delightful assortment on a tray and send it a neighbor’s way! If there’s a shortage of sweets, perhaps a neighbor with a bare yard would like a wreath on their door or some twinkling lights. Knock on the door and ask! Even if the answer is no, it’s such a thoughtful offer that will not go unnoticed.

Spreading holiday cheer doesn’t have to be a huge gesture. It can be small, meaningful things that make someone’s day and will show that you care!

How do you get into the holiday spirit? Do you volunteer in your community? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan20

Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone With These Tips

Posted on by
Standard
Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone With These Tips

If you want to live your best life, then getting out of your comfort zone from time to time is a must. Not only does it expose you to new experiences, but it helps you to see that you are capable of much more than you think. Here are five ways to get out of your comfort zone right now:

Travel to a new place:

One of the best ways to get out of your comfort zone in life is to travel to a new place. It could be a different city, state, or even country. Being in a new environment with different cultures, customs, and languages will force you to adapt and step out of your comfort zone. It will also give you a fresh perspective and help you appreciate the things you take for granted in your normal setting.

Try a new hobby:

Another way to get out of your comfort zone is to try a new hobby. It could be something as simple as taking a dance class or as adventurous as skydiving. Trying new things will help you learn new skills, meet new people, and push yourself to do things you never thought you would.

Volunteer:

Volunteering will allow you to get out of your comfort zone and help others at the same time. It can be anything from helping out at a local soup kitchen to working on a community service project. Volunteering will expose you to new people and new environments, and it will give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Take a public speaking class:

Public speaking is a common fear for many people, but taking a class can help you overcome it. Public speaking classes will teach you how to present yourself confidently and communicate effectively. It will also give you the opportunity to practice speaking in front of a group, which will help you build confidence. It could also be useful in helping you to get a new job whether you want to be a PR manager, apply for diesel technician jobs, or become a teacher, so it is one form of getting out of your comfort zone that could really change your life if you let it.

Start a conversation with a stranger:

Starting a conversation with a stranger can be daunting, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. It will help you practice social skills and make new connections. By initiating conversations with strangers, you will also gain a new perspective and learn about different people and cultures.

Getting out of your comfort zone can be challenging but it is also necessary for growth and self-improvement. Remember to always be open to new experiences and opportunities, and don’t be afraid to take risks!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb16

Landing Your Dream Job

Posted on by
Standard
Landing Your Dream Job

Unfortunately, many people never land their dream job, not because they are not capable of doing so but because they don’t think they can, so they don’t even try. If you want to be one of the ones who does end up doing a job you love for the rest of your life, here are some tips to help you achieve it:

Get the right qualifications:

Yes, there are tales of people who have been able to get their dream job with not even a high school diploma to help them along the way and, incidentally, if you’ve long since lost your high school diploma, Valid Grad can help you out. If you want to land your dream job, it is a good idea to work out what qualifications those in charge are looking for, and do your best to attain them too. Whether this is a certification, degree, or training courses any extra know how helps.

Gain experience:

If you want to land your dream job, you are going to have to work for it and that means getting relevant experience that you can put on your resume. For example, if you want to be a zookeeper, you could start by volunteering in a local animal shelter. This will be valuable experience and show employers that you have a caring nature and a love of animals, which will help to seal the deal. That’s just one example, of course, and what you need to do to prove yourself may be quite different, but you get the idea.

Become a presence online:

In 2022, one thing you can do to really set yourself apart from the competition and stand out in the best possible way is to establish a strong online presence in your chosen sector. If you want to be a film director, you could start by producing video shorts for YouTube or if you want to be a high end personal shopper, you could start your own fashion blog. People will see your stuff, make connections, and you will find that more opportunities will come your way.

Network:

On that note, it is fair to say that networking can do a lot of the hard work of landing your dream job. If you attend trade events, talks, and shows based on your dream sector or where people who work in your dream sector are likely to hang out, you can mingle with all the right people. When it comes to an opportunity, sometimes it really is about who you know so always put your best face forward.

Getting a dream job takes time and lots of hard work but it will be so worth it once you’re punching the clock at a job you love!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb14

Habits For A Happier & Healthier Life

Posted on by
Standard
Habits For A Happier & Healthier Life

How you choose to live your life is ultimately up to you. While some things are out of your control, there is also a lot that is in your control such as what you do or don’t do each day. Your habits play an important role in your overall health and happiness. You must take notice of your behaviors and make sure that you’re taking good care of yourself if you want to feel your best.

These are some habits to add to your routine for a happy and healthier life that you should review and consider implementing:

Exercise & Be Active:

Exercise is good for your body but also your mind and stress levels. If you want to live a happier and healthier existence, then add exercise and being active to your list of habits. You’ll soon notice that you feel less overwhelmed and anxious and that it boosts your mood and self esteem. Do what you have time for and are comfortable with but also try to challenge yourself physically at times. Some ways to begin are to join a gym, go for walks outside, or sign up for a yoga class.

Make Time for Hobbies & Relaxation:

All work and no play will leave you feeling exhausted and you may miss out on the fun parts of life. There are so many ways to relax and unwind including taking your dog for a hike, learning photography, or getting on the computer and participating in some online betting. After all, there is nothing better than having some extra spending cash. In fact, if you are feeling particularly lucky, you can also go the old-school route and play a few hands at an online casino during your downtime if a game isn’t on or the season is over. To help you find the best online casino, check out a testing and review site like Slotswise to get an expert opinion of which is the best for you. Remind yourself that you work hard and deserve this time to rest and regroup after a long day or week at your job. You’ll not only feel refreshed and better for doing so but may also learn a few new skills along the way.

Eat Nutritious Foods:

Think about how you want to feel when you’re done eating and choose foods and snacks that give you energy and reduce anxiety. Foods not only impact your physical health but also your mental well being. Be proactive about choosing to eat more complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables and keep the highly processed and deep fried foods to a minimum.

Smile More:

Your brain releases dopamine when you smile and this will make you feel happy. Crack a smile when you’re feeling down and notice how it instantly picks you up and makes you feel good. You may also want to give yourself a smile in the mirror in the morning before diving into the day ahead. It can help set the right tone for tackling your to do list.

Get Organized:

There are many ways to get organized such as at work, with your finances, and your house. Declutter and get rid of what you no longer need or what no longer serves you. Make space in your life for what truly matters and helps you succeed and live a rewarding life. It’s especially important to do if you feel like the clutter is getting out of control and beginning to negatively impact your mood and how you live.

Meditate & Breathe Deeply:

When you meditate, you can bring down your stress levels and blood pressure, find more emotional balance, and reduce chronic pain and anxiety. Your memory and concentration will improve and you may also feel more creative. It can help you gain a new perspective on stressful situations or problems in your life and allow you to successfully navigate a challenging circumstance. In addition to meditating regularly, you should also consider doing some deep breathing exercises throughout the day. It’s an excellent way to calm your mind and body in the moment.

Get Outside:

Explore and get into nature and take notice of how much better you feel and happier you are overall. It’s a chance to disconnect from technology and your responsibilities and simply be. You’ll not only have an opportunity to slow racing thoughts and clear your mind but spending time in green spaces can also lower blood pressure.

Spend Time with Loved Ones & Friends:

Think about who you miss or haven’t seen in a while and reach out and set up a time to get together or chat on the phone. Although it may be hard to meet new friends as an adult, there are ways to do so. You must be willing to put yourself out there and make an effort in this area of your life. Consider taking a class, volunteering your time, or finding social groups to join in your area. It’s not about how many friends you have but that the relationships and bonds you do have are rewarding and meaningful.

Get More Sleep:

If you’re discovering that you are tired or need naps during the day, then your body might be telling you that you need more rest. Track your sleep and pay attention to how many hours you get so you can make changes if you’re not getting enough. Try to wake up and go to bed around the same time each day to get into a routine and limit naps you do take to twenty minutes.

Visit the Doctor:

Visit your doctor and dentist routinely to stay in good health. You must take good care of yourself and address any health issues or ailments right away. Come prepared to ask questions and follow any treatment plans that are suggested for you. You should see your providers even when you’re not sick for routine checkups and peace of mind.

Help Others:

Try adding volunteering and compassion to your routine. There are likely many opportunities to do so right in your neighborhood and community. You’ll not only benefit from volunteering but you might also make some new friends or meet new people in the process. It might also inspire you to want to practice gratitude for what you do have in your life, which can also boost your happiness and health.

Begin sprinkling these habits into your routine and you’ll not only be happier and healthier but may find you reach your goals at a quicker rate and can build the life you always wanted. While it’s important to focus and work hard at improving yourself, you should also take breaks and rest when you need it to stay well.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan7

Three Simple Steps To A Happier 2019

Posted on by
Standard
Three Simple Steps To A Happier 2019

Want to be happier, more positive and upbeat this year? Of course you do! Even if you don’t see yourself as a naturally chipper individual there’s plenty that you can do to improve your mood and start enjoying life more. Here are three steps you can take towards a happier 2019:

Exercise:

When you think about happiness, for most of us, exercise isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. It’s hard work and it can be a bit of a chore, however, it’s incredibly good for your mental as well as physical health. Exercise regulates hormones, can help you to sleep better and, despite it being tiring, it actually gives you more energy. If you’re in a bit of a slump and feel like you have no ‘get up and go’, sign up for the gym and give it a try. If you’re not one for the gym, long hikes with your dog, swimming, cycling, or whatever else gets you moving can be just as good!

Learn:

When we leave formal education and get a job, most of us stop making an effort to learn new things. But it shouldn’t be the case, regardless of what you’re interested in. There’s so much information out there that you don’t yet know! You could research a topic yourself using articles, online libraries, podcasts, and more. You could attend a course, the subject doesn’t necessarily have to be academic – it could be art, baking, or another kind of craft.

Another option would be to take on some official education, whether it’s an online degree or paralegal studies to further your existing law qualifications, this kind of study can help you to progress in your career. Learning new things gives us satisfaction, something to work on, and it feels good when we reach our goals. Feel like you’re stagnating? Choose a topic and hit the books, whether it’s just for yourself or for your career.

Give:

You might feel as though you don’t have much to give. For example, you might feel like unless you have lots of money to give that there’s not much you can do to help a charity. But it’s simply not the case. You could hold a fundraiser and get people to sponsor you or your workplace. You could volunteer your time, spending an hour a week at a soup kitchen, a women’s hostel, or an animal shelter. Even a couple of dollars a month helps these kinds of organizations.

Giving back in some way to a cause that does good benefits both you and them. It helps them to continue on in their work and it makes you feel good, too. It’s nice knowing that you’ve been able to help and that your time and efforts have been appreciated. See if there are any charities or schemes locally that are in need of help, most are usually desperate for volunteers and donations as they don’t receive any kind of government funding.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Nov30

Get More Involved In Your Local Community

Posted on by
Standard
Get More Involved In Your Local Community

Whether you have recently moved into a new area or you are just keen to try and improve your current sociability, you will find that it is a great idea to try and get more involved in your local community whenever possible. Getting more involved is often merely a matter of doing more and getting out there as a way to have some fun, do good, and meet new friends. In this post, we are going to take a look at some of the activities in particular you might want to consider if you are going to try and get more involved in your local community. Consider some of the following and you’ll be surprised at the difference that it makes:

Play Sports:

Playing sports is an activity that is offered in almost every community. The sport that you choose to play is up to you, but it might prove especially expedient if you go for one that is strongly team-focused, so that you can meet many more people. You will find that sports such as softball and baseball and so on are especially good for this. If there are no such groups out there, grab some softball lineup cards, find a place to play, and start one!

Take An Evening Class:

If there is some skill or ability that you have always wanted to have, you might want to consider taking some kind of evening class, instead. You are bound to be able to find some in your local area, and hopefully a few that spike your personal interest. The benefit of this, is that if you go and learn about something that interests you, you are bound to meet a number of like-minded people and, in doing so, you will find that you will soon become a real part of the community. This is one of the surest and swiftest ways to build up a strong network of friends, so it’s definitely worth considering. Take an evening class at your local university or college, and you will be able to get much more involved in your community in no time.

involved1

Always invite your new friends to coffee!

Volunteer:

One of the more wholesome ways to get more involved in your local community is to volunteer somewhere. If you look around, you are sure to find opportunities for this, as there always are. Soup kitchens, church programs, the Special Olympics, and animal shelters are all great places to start. Doing good feels good and you will meet plenty of new people (Or pets!) as a result.

Getting involved in your community is a fun way to fill up your free time and, with the new friends that you make, you will be the talk of the town in no time!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Nov19

Special Olympics 2017 Banquet

Posted on by
Standard
Special Olympics 2017 Banquet

Hi everyone! This past week, the Special Olympics hosted their yearly banquet to celebrate the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and families that dedicate themselves to such an incredible organization. I have been coaching Special Olympics figure skating for three years now and every practice, competition, and event is such a joy to be a part of. This year, I was honored as the Volunteer Of The Year for my involvement as a coach. It was such an amazing surprise and I have my award displayed proudly already! Check it out:

awardd

^^^ Isn’t that cute?!

I know that I used this word already, but “honored” really describes how I feel about receiving this award. Out of all of the incredible coaches that volunteer their time to the cause, yours truly was chosen, and that is such an indescribable feeling. I am so proud to have been celebrated by my beloved athletes and their families, and I am looking forward to working with my skaters to be the best that they can be, on and off the ice, at our next lesson. ❤

What is something that you are proud of? Which organizations do you volunteer for? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: CBS DFW

Oct2

Translating Your Love For Animals Into Action

Posted on by
Standard
Translating Your Love For Animals Into Action

Mark Twain famously said: “The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog”. While this might be a little harsh as a statement, there are a lot of people who could agree with Twain’s words. In fact, there are plenty of famous people who share Twain’s opinion from Marilyn Monroe, who found that only humans bit, to Elton John whose best man at his wedding was his dog. While preferring dogs to humans might seem a little off, there are clear advantages in developing a bond with animals. They are reliable, they don’t judge you, they don’t have any hidden motive, and, more practically, they provide friendly company. As an animal lover, you can make the world a better place for our furry, feathery and scaly friends by doing some (Or all!) of the below:

Change an animal’s life:

Do you know how many pets are abandoned every day? Rescue centers are filled with found, lost, and lonely pets who need a little help to find a better life. Some of them have been through horrendous situations such as abusive owners. There’s no denying that adopting an animal from a rescue center can make all of the difference. Of course, this isn’t a path for the faint-hearted, as some pets will need a lot of patience and support to trust another human being, so do make sure that you are informed about their backstory. But don’t despair, the effort is worth it! More often than not, animals with the worst stories are the kindest. They are quick to recognize your intentions and show their gratitude. If you want to start with an easier case, you could adopt an old pet as they tend to be peaceful, easy to manage, and just as cute.

Share your opinions and be proud of them:

Sometimes, all it takes to make a difference is to make your opinions clear and known —  respectfully, of course! You can talk to your friends about your beliefs about animals, for example, and maybe encourage them to follow your model. You could opt for a more passive conversion by wearing message tees to promote animal rights and animal pride — discover more fashionable alternatives over here. Sometimes nothing makes a stronger impact than a tee that says how much you love your dachshund. It’s fun, playful, and weirdly unforgettable and that’s what matters!

Become a wildlife’s hero:

If you want to turn your love for animals into something meaningful, you can join some of the wildlife actions for the protection and safety of all animals. You don’t need to be a multi-millionaire to make a difference. Adopting a wild animal through the WWF can help to fund wildlife protection. If you’ve got time, you can volunteer with zoos or organizations to help clean beaches and rescue animals. Buying responsibly also means that you can support companies that don’t pollute the environment and endanger wildlife. So what’s stopping you?

Being an animal lover is not just about watching kitten videos on YouTube. It’s a matter of doing your share to help animals and promote the cause. By adopting a dog in your neighborhood or choosing to donate to save tigers in the wild, you turn your love into a valuable action.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Sep24

Lil Red Loves: Giving Back!

Posted on by
Standard
Lil Red Loves: Giving Back!

Hello everyone and happy Sunday! If you have been following lifewithlilred for a while or even are just friends with me on Facebook, you will know that there are two particular causes that are very close to my heart. One being animal rescue organizations and the other being the Special Olympics. Canine Lifeline, the rescue group that I volunteer for, and the Special Olympics are both organizations that I have worked with for about three years. Both causes are incredibly dear to me and I am here to talk about why. Let’s discuss:

Canine Lifeline:

I have had many a post on my blog about my precious rescue pups, Gem and Ollie, both of whom came from Canine Lifeline. This rescue group brings dogs up from rural, all kill shelters and tries to find them a new furever home in Ohio. Not only that, but they work hard to cover the medical expenses for the pups that are heartworm positive or who suffered in abusive conditions in their previous owner’s “care”.

My mom, sister, and I try to do everything within our time budget to help out with the needs of this amazing organization. Whether it be walking the dogs, bathing them, washing the blankets in their cages, or giving them some play time, we try to lend a helping hand as often as possible. We also have fun trying our luck at their raffle fundraisers where you can win amazing gift baskets! If it wasn’t for CLL, Gem and Ollie wouldn’t be here to be such a treasured part of our lives. With that in mind, the least we can do is try to give back!

gem1ollie

^^^ Gem is in the first picture and Ollie is straight lounging in the second one. *Featuring Patrick Starfish*

Special Olympics:

This will be my third year of coaching Special Olympics figure skating and I am SO excited for practices to commence in October. I have been working with people who have special needs for roughly three years, as well, and I can’t imagine being in a better, more rewarding field. Compliments to about ten years of competitive figure skating, I have been able to use my somewhat forgotten skills to help my students grow as athletes and it brings me so much joy.

Coaching and motivating my athletes in whatever way that I can has led me to wonderful new friendships as well as a weekly workout – it’s really a win/win situation! I live for the practices, the actual Special Olympics games, and the celebration banquet when it is all over. Seeing my students enjoy themselves and succeed in an incredibly difficult sport is all the payoff that I need, and I plan on coaching every year until I physically can’t do it any more. Plus, Coach Sarah has an excellent ring to it!

team

^^^ Team picture!!! ❤

There is nothing better than volunteering your time, energy, and skills to an organization that is special to you. And, of course, monetary donations are also much appreciated, especially to both of my above causes, which are nonprofit.

And speaking of nonprofit organizations, if you are helping to plan a fundraising event for one of your causes, then the services at Eventbrite are a great place to start. Your raffle or dinner will be sure to be a hit with Eventbrite’s event planning, promotions, and social sharing tools to help your favorite cause reach new audiences and, of course, earn some money.

Lil Red Loves: Giving Back and I hope that this inspired you to help out with a cause that is meaningful to you! Which organization do you volunteer for? How do you give back? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Comal Habitat