As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to affect our lives in extraordinary ways, many of us naturally wish that we could do something to help others. Giving back to our communities provides a sense of purpose and a connection to those around us. It can be very fulfilling to know that we are doing something that can help others lead better lives.
While many of the volunteer efforts that require in-person collaboration are no longer in line with social distancing guidelines, there are ways to continue to support your community at this time. We’ve compiled some suggestions on what you can do to give back and strengthen your community during one of the hardest times we’ve faced in our lives.
Connect to Your Networks and Communities Virtually:
- Use platforms such as NextDoor to stay informed and connected to your neighborhood communities. If you feel comfortable, you can offer your volunteer services there to members who are especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 novel coronavirus.
- If you attended an in-person community of faith such as a church, synagogue, temple, or mosque, reach out to see if they have moved services and activities online. You may find that they are coordinating community efforts that you can get involved with.
- Create a public or private network group on a social media platform to provide comfort, humor, art projects, charity efforts, and other activities you can create, do, and share together.
- Join an online workout program and workout together with others via their streaming services. Check out our recent post for a list of free online fitness options.
- Attend readings and performances. A number of theater and dance companies throughout Vegas and the U.S. have started to create live performance on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook Live.
Donate
- The pandemic has created a blood shortage in Las Vegas. Consider donating blood to help people who need it the most at this time.
- Donate to your local food bank or other charitable organization to help provide meals to vulnerable communities.
- Consider giving to the Nevada Community Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund.
- If you have a supply of healthcare personal protective equipment, such as masks, please consider giving these to hospitals or medical centers.
Be a Good Neighbor
- At a time of uncertainty, it is understandable that people will want to be prepared and have their refrigerators and pantries stocked. But buying everything off the shelf leaves little to nothing for others to survive on. Buy only what you need for two weeks ahead of time and no more than that. Remember that we’re all in this together.
- Be courteous, kind, and compassionate with others at this time of high stress.
Consider Frontline Workers Needs
Frontline workers, such as those who work in healthcare, are working round the clock to provide necessary services to maintain the health and wellness of our community. You can help these workers by doing the following:
- Practice social-distancing on a regular basis. Stay home for Nevada.
- If you are sick and need help, call your healthcare provider’s office to let them know your symptoms before visiting.
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and use hand sanitizer whenever you’ve touched anything that others could have touched.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Wear a cloth face covering when out in public around others.
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Want to recognize your provider for the support they’re giving you at this time? Check out the Honor and Thank initiative here and see how you can express your gratitude directly to them.
There are many ways you can support your community at this time. The suggestions above are just a sampling of ways to help out. The best way to support others doesn’t require anything but staying home to slow the spread of the virus.
