Birthday parties, backyard barbeques, block parties, family reunions…summer is filled with parties of every kind. It’s the perfect time of year to get outside, cool off with a cold beverage, and enjoy some great summer food. But with all the focus on “going green,” the economy downsizing, and many people in need of everyday basics, I think gatherings of any kind are a perfect opportunity to do good for your community and the environment.
Are you passionate about the environment? At your next barbeque, take a few minutes to plant a tree with your guests or give a seedling tree as a party favor for your guests to plant in their yards. Do you volunteer at the local food bank? Ask your family members to bring a canned good or other non-perishable item to donate. Do you have a children’s hospital nearby? Ask guests at your child’s birthday party to bring pennies to fill up a container to take to the hospital. Does your family volunteer at the homeless shelter? Ask neighbors to bring gently-used clothing to the next block party to help out those less fortunate.
There are many ways you can incorporate “community service” with all your summertime gatherings–and year-round for that matter. This is a great way to keep people focused on needs in the community, teach children to think about others, and to encourage everyone to do a little something–which adds up to a whole lot.
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