Small town populations typically range from 1,500 to 50,000 people. That being said, there is a good chance there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference in your local area! Many towns are home to a multitude of school districts, hospitals, shops, and events for the community. With so many resources in one place, what better setting to get involved and make a difference? Here are seven tangible ways to make a difference in your town in 2025.
1. Volunteer Your Time
The common phrase “time is money” highlights the importance of your time. Remember that your time is valuable! Consider volunteering in your area to make an impact by offering yourself.
Some great volunteer options include helping out at the local animal shelter or food bank, donating blood at a local blood drive, or volunteering with Kids Hope USA as a mentor through your local church community.
2. Support Local Nonprofits
There are a handful of ways to support the nonprofits in your area. Partner with the organization, donate a one-time or recurring gift, and stay engaged through following along on social media.
For Kids Hope USA, over 700 students are on a waitlist to meet with a mentor who shows up to spend one-on-one time with them every week throughout the school year. One way that you can help support Kids Hope USA is talking to your church pastor, employer at a faith-friendly business, or a local elementary school employee and ask if they are a Kids Hope USA partner or if they are familiar with the organization.
3. Organize or Attend Community Events
By organizing or attending local events, you are contributing to a more connected community. Hosting a neighborhood block party (or simply attending) is a great way to meet new people and make a difference in your area!
Running a local race to fundraise for a charity (like Kids Hope USA) is another option that supports local events and nonprofits combined.
If you’re looking to clear items from your home, consider hosting a garage sale and donating the proceeds to a local charity. Be sure to mention this when advertising the sale—letting people know it supports a good cause can encourage more community participation and generosity!
4. Mentor a Young Person
A great way to connect to your community is through mentoring a young person at your local elementary school. Mentoring offers an opportunity to encourage the younger generation and also creates space for you to be encouraged by them! Kids Hope USA provides a great way to do just that. Spend one-on-one time with a student from a local elementary school for one hour each week during the school day. Learn more about how to get involved!
5. Foster Community Relationships
Consider hosting, or joining in on, a community potluck! This is a sure way to connect with those in your area and make an impact through those relationships. During these get togethers, you may learn more about what is happening in your community and how to help out where needed.
6. Engage with schools
School districts in your area need your help! How can you engage with your local schools? Maybe it’s by providing supplies, writing letters of encouragement, mentoring a student through Kids Hope USA, or donating snacks and goodies to the school staff during busy seasons. Being present in your local school can make a huge difference in your life and the life of those around you.
7. Random acts of kindness
One of the most creative ways to create positive change in your town is by displaying random acts of kindness. Some unique ideas could be paying for someone’s coffee; writing thank you notes to healthcare professionals; or offering to help an elderly neighbor with yard work or errands.
Make Your Time Mean More
We all have the same 24 hours each day— how will you use yours to make a meaningful difference? Start impacting your community today and watch how giving back impacts you! If you are unsure where to start, contact us at Kids Hope USA and consider mentoring. Get connected with your community and watch how things begin to flourish.