It’s a really difficult time right now for so many people. As the Coronavirus ravages the social connections in our lives, we wonder how we can be of help in our community. It’s pretty well known that when the economy takes a hit, the African American community gets hit the hardest. So how can we serve each other with social restrictions and financial challenges hitting us all at once? Here are three ways to give to your community.
3 Ways to Help Your Community During a Pandemic
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When times get as rough as they have lately, we often don’t know what to do. We hear over and over again how unprecedented these times are. While that may be true, the resolve of the human spirit should not be discounted. As a people, African Americans have had to overcome one hurdle after another one decade after another. It is my hope that even as we face a pandemic, we will once again rise to the occasion and take care of our communities in unprecedented ways.
Give your time
I know the order from the top is to keep your distance. And, we should. But, that shouldn’t stop us from giving our time to help those in need. If you consider your neighbors, think about those on either side of you or directly across from you. That’s three households. Call them to have a conversation. Find out if they need some groceries. Ask them if they would like to pray together. There are many opportunities that simply require giving of a little time and that are safe to take part in. Volunteer at a food bank. Pick up and deliver meals. Are you really good at research? Can you help someone register to vote? Whatever you do, remember safety first? Just do something.
Share your talent
Perhaps you have a unique skill that can help people right now. As we all strive to make life a little easier for others, sharing our talents can help take a load off. Are you a therapist or a great listener? Can you help with tax returns? Do you know how to mow a lawn? Can you tutor a student? Are you a doctor who can keep your community posted on the latest Coronavirus updates? I know that these are all skills that we should be paid for. In no way am I attempting to minimize your talents. However, when times hit all of us like this, the most important thing is making sure that we all have access to resources that can help us endure and keep moving forward – together.
Express your thanks
With the requirements of social distancing, we’ve lost the ability to just casually shake hands or high five or embrace those outside of our immediate family. We must find creative ways to stay emotionally connected. Well, nothing warms the heart like a sincere expression of thanks. And, it can be thanks for anything. Thank you for your decades of friendship. Thank you for being my parents. I appreciate your phone call. Thanks for paying my bills. I’m grateful that you called me. Thanks for helping me with my homework. Express your gratitude in an email or a text message. Just give thanks.
While not necessarily the easiest of ideas, these are ways we can really make a difference in each other’s lives. I know a lot of people are throwing money at the Coronavirus pandemic. It’s needed and I hope it continues. But, I also hope we use our time, talent, and thanks to show that there are many other ways we can fight this battle together. While we keep our distance, let’s also keep our dignity as a community and remember we can count on each other. God bless you all and stay healthy!
BMWK, how are you taking care of your community during the pandemic?
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