“I wonder how often people sit on the sidelines because they simply don’t know how to help,” I said to my wife after reading status after status of my friends on Facebook desperately wanting to do something to improve the state of the world. People wanting to ensure our country remains safe, people wanting to help refugees, people wanting to help veterans — so many people are eager to help, and I hope they can in some way.

Let me assure you, there are ways to help. As a nonprofit professional, I’m constantly reminded of people passionately pursuing change. There are typically two types of people walking into my office every day: people needing help and people actively working to help them. Nonprofit organizations are striving every day to connect those people together in order to solve problems in our community, state, nation and world. If you want to help, they’re a great place to start.

Of course you don’t have to work for a charity to make a difference. A financial contribution can offset what you may not be able to contribute with your time. ‘Tis the season of giving after all, and a donation to a nonprofit you care about could be one of the most fulfilling gifts you give this year. Numerous studies have revealed the act of giving helps us feel happier, especially when we give to a cause we feel is worthy. Gifts both small and large make an impact, and I encourage you to consider the act of giving this season.

Perhaps you don’t want to just pass the buck — you want to get your hands dirty. Volunteering can be a spectacular way to use your free time. So often Sera and I sit at home rewatching episodes of our favorite television shows when we could be putting our time to better use. Did you know the value of one volunteer hour is worth $24.83 in Minnesota? You can learn more about this fascinating calculation by visiting the Independent Sector’s website. I don’t know how much I value my time watching Netflix, but I definitely don’t think it’s that high. More important than the value of a volunteer hour is finding a place that needs volunteers. Thankfully, I stumbled upon a website that lists several organizations in Freeborn County that could put your talent and time to good use: www.volunteerfreeborncounty.wordpress.com. As you find an organization you want to volunteer for, I encourage you to find opportunities where you can use skills unique to you to advance their work.

But donating and volunteering are not the only ways to help. As one Facebook friend smartly reminded me this week, advocating for what you’re passionate about is a great way to make a difference. Sometimes we can’t make a change in our community because we simply don’t have the power to do so. Reaching out to our elected officials to share your opinion and influence their decision-making is often under utilized. Did you know you can call the U.S. Capitol and request to speak to your state representative? You can! Just call 1-202-224-3121 and ask to speak to someone who represents Minnesota. I just did it now, and it totally worked. You can also visit www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/districtfinder to find out who represents you. These people should want to hear your opinions on issues impacting you, so please share them.

Sometimes it’s easy to sit on the sidelines. Unfortunately, the more people sit on the sidelines, the more your community isn’t represented. If you don’t take a stand, you’re not part of the discussion. I encourage you to come to the table, join the discussion. There’s no right or wrong way. Get involved. Donating, volunteering, and sharing your thoughts with leadership all helps build stronger communities. There are opportunities just waiting for us, let’s use them. I’m certain Sera and I will still find plenty of time to binge-watch our new favorite show, and I’m sure you’ll feel more rewarded contributing to your community in a new way.

 

Rochester resident Matt Knutson is the communications and events director for United Way of Olmsted County.