There are many ways you can make a difference – one is to simply write a check to a local church or charity.  There are many that do great work in our community and funds are always needed to support the projects they are building and the people they serve.  However, if you truly want to make your life brighter and see the difference yourself, volunteer!

Again, you need to look no further than our local Chamber of Commence and Visitors Center to come up with a few great ideas, one that fits your passion.  If your passion is education, the schools are always looking for volunteers.  Vicki Moen at the Gresham-Barlow Education Foundation can steer you in the right direction.  If pets are your thing, then Guide Dogs for the Blind might just make your day.  If helping families in need makes your heart skip a beat, there are lots of organizations to help including My Father’s House, SnowCap Community Charities, Birch Community Services, and the list goes on and on.  There are Seniors that need help (Meals on Wheels), local sports teams (need coaches), and even Main City Park and the Japanese Gardens need those who specialize in horticulture.  There are even charities like “Apple of His Eye” that may broaden your worldly horizons.

Connect with one of these great organizations and enjoy your time with them.  As Winston Churchill famously stated… “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give”