The beginning of a new year is a great opportunity to pause, reflect, and look back at everything you accomplished the last 365 days.
In 2018, we launched a rather remarkable goal: By 2025, we want to inspire 1 million people to engage in acts of local love across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. It was bold. It was audacious. But boy did it resonate with community change-makers!
People like Trisha. Trisha took the Acts of Local Love challenge and transformed her perspective in the process. Or residents in Clayton Heights neighbourhood. These passionate folks are tackling social isolation in their Surrey subdivision. Or the determined citizens of Coquitlam River, who mobilized to rebuild a little library in their neighbourhood after it was burnt down. These everyday people are tackling social isolation in their communities, one small step at a time.
We’re proud to share that over 21,000 people took up our call to be 1 in a million, in 2018. We’ll be reporting our final 2018 figures in the months to come. We can’t wait to see who else joins us in 2019!
Celebrating the launch of our goal on United Way Day 2019.
Now that 2019 is underway, you might be seeking a fresh start.
The new year is also often a time when people prioritize mental and physical well-being, with many signing up for gym memberships and meditation classes.
The great news? Getting involved in your community is beneficial for both your mind and your body! The sense of satisfaction, connection, and strength that comes from giving back close to home, is real. Participating in community programs, local events, or neighbourhood initiatives also introduces you to like-minded, passionate individuals, helps keep your brain and body active, and hones and grows new skillsets – all to incredible effects!
So as we welcome 2019 and continue to show our local love and build healthy, caring, and inclusive communities, here are five out-of-the-box ways to help you get involved, right in your own backyard.
Ready, set, resolution!
Apply for a community grant
Local, place-based initiatives have deep and lasting impacts on communities. Community forums, newsletters, communal gardens, murals, block parties – the list is long as it is diverse! There are so many different ways citizens can drive positive change in their own neighbourhoods.
In support of this vision, United Way is making $12,000 available to support community-driven projects, up to a value of $1,000 each. Beginning in the Clayton Heights neighourhood, these projects will be driven by, and in support of local residents, and will aim to foster more “local love” in the Cloverdale community. Live in Cloverdale? Apply today!
Use your voice
Communities thrive when they reflect the diversity of their inhabitants. Your interests and concerns for your city are important! Check out your local municipality’s website to learn about civic committees, or events where you can share your vision for the place you call home.
There are also great resources available for new residents. The City of Burnaby’s newcomer page has great information on language programs and immigrant support groups, as well as family, youth and seniors services.
Support your local sports team
Do you love the thrill of the game? Check out your community’s lacrosse team, youth soccer, or high school and university sports teams. Athletes compete because they love their sport, but seeing fans in the stands makes a world of a difference. There are also great opportunities to help out through volunteer-led activities, like running the concession stand, providing colour-commentary for games, or showing support over social media.
The best part of a project like this? They involve all members of the community, no matter their age, ability, or background.
Take part in a community clean-up
All communities need a little TLC. Organizing or taking part in a civic clean-up program will make both you and your city shine! Abbotsford hosts a Community Clean-Up week in April that last year saw almost 3,000 residents participate. Volunteers included community groups, local organizations, and neighbourhood schools.
Photo credit: Abbotsford News
Grab a group of friends and together enjoy a day of exercise in the outdoors while you beautify your community. Is there any better way to stay in shape?
Support your local businesses
Shopping locally is one of the best ways to get involved in your community. It allows you to make long-lasting, meaningful connections with vendors while personally investing in the long-term success of your city. Think of it as voting with your dollars. The more support given to local, grassroot businesses, the more your community thrives.
Remember: the best New Year’s resolutions are small, realistic changes you can make – and sustain – in your everyday life. What small step will you take to improve your community this year? Make a plan now, and stick to it!
Show us what we already know – that you’re 1 in a million! Pledge to give back to your community this New Year here.
Topics : Local love
