6 Ways to Help Others In Your Community
Whether you choose to donate, give your time or your voice, every small act of kindness can spark big change. Here are simple ways you can make a difference — starting today.
Ways to Help Your Community
- Donate. Save the Children is working around the clock to help children in the U.S. and around the world. Across rural America, we support 300 rural communities across 14 states and advocate for policies that protect and benefit children. Your donation to the Global Action Fund supports our work so that, together, we can make sure every child in rural America and around the world has what they need to flourish.
- Help your local food pantry. In rural communities across America, 1 in 5 children don't have enough to eat. Contact your local food pantry to learn how your support can help them provide food items for families in need.
- Give blood if you’re able. Red Cross and other organizations are in dire need of blood supply and have safe, healthy ways for you to donate.
- Volunteer your time. Volunteering is a great way to support your community. Volunteering opportunities can range anywhere from organizing food donations or cleaning up the neighborhood to planting a community garden. Save the Children offers volunteer opportunities – learn more about volunteering with us!
- Check on neighbors and family members, especially those who live alone, are elderly, have health or mobility issues or are caring for children. Schedule time to remotely connect with these individuals regularly to let them know they are not alone.
- Support local businesses, schools and child care centers. Purchase gift cards, volunteer, or donate to programs that help children and families thrive. Through Save the Children’s political advocacy arm – Save the Children Action Network – we advocate for policies supporting child care and early education. Learn how you can join us to take action.
Every act of kindness strengthens our communities — and helps create a brighter future for children everywhere. Join us to make an even greater impact.
Community Involvement FAQs: How You Can Help Others
How can I help others in my community?
You can make a difference by volunteering, donating to local charities, supporting food pantries or helping neighbors in need. Small acts of kindness—like checking in on elderly neighbors or mentoring youth—can have a big impact.
What are the best volunteer opportunities near me?
Volunteer opportunities vary by community, but local food banks, schools, and shelters often need help.
Save the Children also offers ways to volunteer your time and skills to support children and families across the U.S. and around the world.
What are simple ways to give back to my community?
Give back to your community by donating supplies, raising funds online, volunteering at community events or simply spreading awareness for local causes that matter to you. Even sharing helpful resources or encouraging others to get involved can make a difference.
Can I volunteer with Save the Children?
Yes! Save the Children offers volunteer, fundraising and advocacy opportunities. You can donate your birthday, start a fundraiser, or join our political advocacy organization, Save the Children Action Network, to support policies that help children and families thrive.
How can I support families or children during emergencies or disasters?
An emergency can strike at any time.
During crises, donate to trusted organizations providing emergency relief, like Save the Children. You can also organize local drives for food, diapers and hygiene items or volunteer your time to help affected families recover.
How can I start a fundraiser for children in need?
There are endless ways that you can fundraise to raise money and support children. Learn more about our peer fundraising opportunities, including how to raise money for our work in the U.S as well as programs around the world.
What are ways to help my community without spending money?
Not all acts of kindness require a donation. You can give your time, share helpful information, mentor youth, volunteer virtually, or amplify local causes on social media to inspire others to take action.
Why is community involvement important for helping children?
When communities come together, children benefit most. Safe, connected communities give kids access to education, healthcare, and protection—helping them grow up healthy, hopeful and ready to shape a better future.