Summertime is upon us, which means bike rides, fireworks and lazy days beside the pool. But summer can be more than just some extra vacation time—it’s a chance to get involved and volunteer in the community. Summer is an opportunity to give back in philanthropy, so here are 8 hot ways to do just that.
1. Hold a Yard Sale
A yard sale is a super easy way to give back that also helps you. Clean out unnecessary stuff around the house and raise money to donate to a local charity. Then, give any extra items to your local shelter. Have children? Get them involved by letting them pick the charity!
2. Sell Lemonade
While hosting a yard sale, you may as well have a lemonade stand while you’re at it. This is a great way to get kids involved and excited about raising money for philanthropy. Not only do they gain a sense of responsibility, but they understand the value that goes into helping others.
3. Do a Trail Cleanup
For those who love going on long summer walks and bike rides, a trail cleanup is the way to go! Then a trail cleanup is the way to go! Clean up any trash you may see along the path as you go. This is one small extra step that goes a long way in helping your community.
4. Run a Charity Race
If you’re trying to get in shape this summer, consider running a charity race. These are running events held where participant registration fees go towards a philanthropic cause. You can look up local races via theme, distance or nonprofit organization.
5. Host a Block Party
Hosting a summer block party is a fun way for your neighborhood to be involved in a cause. Send out invitations asking friends to bring freewill donations to donate to a local nonprofit. This way, you get to eat and celebrate with friends while also helping those in need.
6. Coordinate a Car Wash
Car washes are an awesome way to raise money for nonprofit causes. Get your family, friends or kids involved in promoting and working the car wash for a collective goodwill. Let customers know where their money is going, and watch your donation dollars soar in.
7. Adopt an Animal at the Zoo
If you’re an animal lover, then adopting an animal at the zoo is a wonderful philanthropic option. Kids enjoy watching as the animal grows and develops, while you feel the satisfaction of aiding an animal in the community.
8. Volunteer on Vacation
For those truly dedicated to having a philanthropic summer, consider volunteering while on vacation. Some options include working with local people, participating in an environmental cleanup or building up parts of the community. Instill a sense of philanthropy in yourself and your children while still having fun family tourist time.
Summertime is the best time for eating popsicles, swimming and lying out in the sun, but it can also be the best time for giving back to those in your community. By getting involved in philanthropy this summer, you can be a huge part of helping those in need and still soaking up those hot summer rays.