Lexington, KY - The lights are coming down, wrapping paper has all been swept away and the post-holiday rest has begun. Now what? With gifts sometimes quickly adored and abandoned, it's normal to ask, 'What lasts?' When the January freeze sets in and outdoor activities are limited, people look for something to do. How will you spend your time this year?
January is, of course, the season of resolutions and new goals. Time to lose this or fix that. Especially in this time of economic uncertainty, everyone seems to be looking for a way to improve his or her situation. But sometimes the greatest improvements one can make are those that start with giving.
Ownership in a community can be one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to improve it. It's true that many organizations can benefit from monetary gifts - and those are important. But this season, why not find a reward from giving your time and find a way to help others while helping instill in your family - or yourself - a greater sense of responsibility for those around you.
Lexington has heaps of organizations that are designed to help its residents. Whether through public art, social assistance or youth mentoring, you might be surprised to find all the ways you can help out just by giving a little bit of yourself. You might even be surprised to find how much fun it is and how much it improves you as you improve the lives of others.
This year, take a look at our first Give Guide. We challenge you to find a group that you or your family can commit to and support - be it with time or money. There's something for everyone. Do you have a personal experience with a specific health-related issue that has softened you toward others in a similar situation? Do you have a heart for homeless animals? Special needs children and their families? We've got it here for you.
The best thing we can do in times of struggle is to recognize those around us who may be in even greater need than we are. Give your time, give yourself - and you might be surprised to see just how much you get in return.
Click on a link below for a directory of charities and non-profits