If there was ever a time that the world needed to unite and show its humanity, then 2020 is it.
And this weekend (Saturday) we will be celebrating the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela by contributing, in some way, to the betterment of others.
We all need some positivity right now, and the best way to feel good is to do good.
If you’re looking for some ways to improve the world, then here are 10 ideas to work with.
* Donate food, beds, and/or blankets to a local animal care shelter (https://www.empangenispca.co.za/). Alternatively, you could volunteer your time to assist at the shelter.
* Clear out your cupboards, garage and storage spaces and donate these quality, second-hand items to local charities (https://www.citizen.co.za/zululand-observer/40344/67-charities-support-mandela-day/).
* Offer your skills, free of charge, to a non-profit organisation that could benefit. This could be anything from web design and marketing, through to finance and accounting assistance.
* Go through your bookshelf or buy some books that can be donated to a local school or library. If possible, cover them in plastic sheeting to ensure they’re in quality condition for many years to come.
* Sponsor data for young school children or university students who are currently having to work online. Contact local schools or institutions to find out which pupils or students are most in need.
* Put together care kits (including a comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, face cloth and other toiletries) for patients at a nearby government hospital.
* Support the work being done by conservationists in our local game parks by visiting a nearby reserve (https://www.kznwildlife.com/), or by sponsoring the many fund-raising initiatives (https://wessa.org.za/get-involved/join-wessa/) that are ongoing.
* Offer to do the grocery shopping or mow the lawn for an elderly neighbour.
* Donate food parcels to local shelters or contribute towards hunger alleviation efforts (https://giftofthegivers.org/hunger-alleviation-4/).
* Pick up the phone and call a friend of a family member, simply to brighten their day.
There are endless ways you can positively impact your local and global community, even with social distancing protocols.
The Covid-19 pandemic has made the need for goodwill even more profound, and every little bit helps.
For more information and ideas to keep the good momentum going, visit the Mandela Day site (https://www.mandeladay.com/pages/what-can-i-do).
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