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Taking A Stand

© Ella Marin

Tempting as it may sound to the idealists out there, saving the world is a rather tall order. That does not mean that society only reacts to substantial amounts of money, or that individuals are powerless to effect change. Just as it is unreasonable to expect to create a worldwide utopia, we must release ourselves from the shackles of the myth that one dedicated person alone cannot make a difference. To cure the planet's ills, we must first answer the calls for help in our own communities. The collective action of millions of Americans sharing their time, energy, and talents to neighborhood causes adds up to a value of over $200 billion a year. (For more information on volunteer values and other statistics on giving, visit The Independant Sector.)

The tragedies in Littleton, Co. and Conyers, Ga. have shaken America to its core. Every concerned parent and anxious child realizes there are no quick fixes or guaranteed solutions against such wrenching acts of violence. Few citizens have the time, money, or energy to search for radical answers or to alter legislative policies. However, there are steps each of us can take to help ensure the availability of safe environments in our communities. Support neighborhood services that provide healthy recreational activities, youth counseling, or positive role models by volunteering your time. Just a few hours a week can make a real difference in the lives of dozens of youth, as well as providing you with a meaningful and rewarding experience. Contact your local volunteer center or United Way for information on how you can get involved in your community.

We must also remember that, despite the horror that specific individuals are capable of, youth are not the problem, but must be called forth to be an active part of the solution. Interested teenagers should get involved in community service-- it is a wonderful way to learn, meet interesting people, try out career fields, and to grow. For more information on youth service opportunities around the US, visit YVCA. Volunteerism needs to be made part of our every day vocabulary; as much a part of popular culture as music, fast food, TV, and video games. These things shape our daily lives and our communities, as should the simple act of giving to make this place a little better. Our collective actions have created enough strife- the ozone layer, smog, polluted beaches, etc. But the singular actions of tens of millions of people-- teaching someone to read, volunteering at a local humane society, or a myriad of other options-- can, and does, have a tremendous impact on our world. One person CAN make a difference. Be part of the solution-- volunteer!