Easy and meaningful ways to lend a helping hand.

They say it's better to give than to receive, well I agree. I have found that "doing my part" has been very rewarding. Whether it's helping out at a soup kitchen, donating items to the homeless, volunteering at the senior center or community center with the kids. Giving of your time and energy is a amazing feeling but when you give of your heart it's a hundred times more rewarding. It seems as though when you give of yourself and don't expect anything in return, the blessings rain down. It could be in something as small as some one buying you a cup of coffee or as big as a new job or house that you have been wishing for. My grandmother used to say you might not get your blessings here on earth, you might get them in heaven but don't worry because God always remembers what you did.

Here's a few ideas on how to lend a helping hand.

1. Volunteer drivers for seniors in need of rides to appointments.

2. Food banks are always in need of people to prepare boxes for clients

3. Yard cleaning and minor home repairs for home bound seniors

4. Blanket and clothing drives for homeless, especially in the colder months.

5. Dog and cat food drives for pets of the homeless

6. Food prep and serving at local soup kitchens

7. Community clean up day at parks

8. Book readers for children groups at local libraries

9. School supply drives

10. Coaching and mentorship

#perspective #outlook #livebyexample