So much has happened in 2020 and now into 2021 where we have faced new challenges, less connection, and larger division, which is impacting how we feel. With May being Mental Health Awareness month, it gives us the time to shift our focus to our own wellness and those around us whether at home, at work, or in our communities. Here are 18 ways to inspire you to do just that.

OAKLAND, Calif., January 15, 2021 – VolunteerMatch, the largest nonprofit network with the most volunteer opportunities, today announced the launch of new community-based Guides in Apple Maps to easily find great places to volunteer. Available in 11 major metropolitan areas, VolunteerMatch Guides feature local in-person and virtual service opportunities in San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York City, Washington, DC, and other major cities.

As part of our #GiveTime campaign with U.S. Bank, we are highlighting some of the nonprofit organizations that won free membership for a year. If you are looking for ways to #GiveTime now and into 2021, there are a variety of causes and ways you can put your skills to good use to help out your communities and support these nonprofits. Plus, check out even more ideas at the end of the post!

With the holidays fast approaching, let’s take some time to celebrate with our communities and share some joy. Whether you’re looking to be of service, enjoy a virtual concert, or watch an inspirational film, here are 7 simple things you can do to share some kindness as we ring in 2021.

Many of us are looking for safer ways to give some kindness to others this holiday season as we see the increasing need to support our communities. Giving to others in any form — from cards to meals to a sympathetic ear — shows people they’re cared for. What are some easy ways to give some kindness to others this holiday season? Here are 10 simple ideas to give back virtually during the holiday season.

For the entire month of September, in honor of the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance, we’re joining together with 911day.org to encourage all our colleagues and neighbors to make a difference.

With everything going on right now in the world around us, we could all use a little ray of sunshine. And it turns out, doing good is not just good for the health of our communities: it’s good for our personal health, as well. Research shows that volunteering can help lift your spirits and may even make you healthier and improve longevity. Here are 8 ways you can help others, while bringing a little bit of joy and health to your own life.

Huge strides have been made with the Supreme Court ruling this week that protects LGBTQIA+ from being fired because of their sexual orientation and gender identification. Before this decision, almost half the states lacked this legal projection.

“One big lesson from this opinion is don’t give up. You have to believe that you can change things,” said Evan Wolfson, founder of Freedom to Marry. It’s inspiring to see how individuals can come together to fight against social justice and shape a more inclusive society. And now it is the time to build on this momentum and do even more. 

The widening inequality gap we are witnessing as we emerge from the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic and the attention being paid to the killings of Black Americans including Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and, most recently, George Floyd remind us of the absolute necessity of continuing the work to create a society that supports and values each of its members equally. How can we build a society based around compassionate communities, whose members are motivated and empowered to take action to actively improve the world for their fellow human beings?

There has been an increase in overall demand for food from Food Banks across the U.S. because of COVID-19. It’s amazing to see our communities: individuals, businesses, governments, and nonprofit organizations come together to support the people in need.

It shows that if we collaborate and work together, we can make a significant difference in fighting hunger in our communities.

Here are some inspiring ways people are working together to combat this growing challenge.